New Dandy Town player/coach Meshach Wade said the chance to test himself at one of Bermuda's powerhouse clubs was a challenge he could not turn down.

The former Hereford United professional makes the move from Hamilton Parish who he guided during a memorable last season, winning the First Division title and the Dudley Eve.

Conversely, his new club endured a turbulent season despite finishing runner-up in the FA Cup and saw coach Devar Boyles quit mid-season as infighting infected the St.John's Field-based outfit.

And while Wade may be one the brightest young coaches on the Island he has warned the Hornets that he is "no lifesaver" and has no magic wand to reverse their flagging fortunes.

"The chance to move to Dandy Town was too good to turn down," said Wade. "They're a big club with a great tradition and it's a chance for me to step on in my coaching career.

"I enjoyed my time at Hamilton Parish and I believe they have a lot of potential and I wish them all the best for the coming season.

"I know Dandy Town had a difficult season last year and I think I can make a difference," said Wade. "There's a really good youth structure at the club, but I'm no lifesaver and hard work will be the key."

The pre-season transfer merry-go-round has seen Hornets lose Bermuda Hogges' duo Lloyd Holder and Michael Parsons to PHC and Boulevard respectively. Although they have picked up Devonshire Cougars forward Raymond Beach who Wade hopes will forge a potent strike force with his close friend Heys Wolf.

"Raymond is a quality player and has played for the Hogges," he said.

"He's a role model for the other boys and both he and Heys Wolf can be a dangerous partnership. And of course we also have Lashun Dill who is a talented player.

"I don't think I'll play too often myself as I want to concentrate on the coaching side of things but I'm still registered as a player."

Wade, who played a significant part in Bermuda's famous 2-1 victory over Trinidad and Tobago earlier this summer, will not be part of the Gombey Warriors' squad for the first round qualifying games of next week's Digicel Cup.

He said other commitments have prevented him from making the trip to the Cayman Islands although he hasn't ruled out making another international return.

"The Trinidad matches were a great experience and we had a good go at them," he said. "I think all the players are still hyped and I believe they can go and get the job done in Cayman."

n Wade will be running a football camp for 5-14-year-olds at St.John's Field from August 25-29 and September 1-5. For more details call him on 533-2325.

Sessions run from 8.30 a.m. until 5.30 p.m.