controlled league soccer, Lancelot Swan controlled sport on the Island, while Boulevard were in charge of little as a Second Division also-ran, struggling to gain any sort of recognition.

Also the Bermuda national team had won a bronze medal at the Central America and Caribbean Games (CAC). The year was 1974, and since then all of the above has changed.

The BFU dissolved into the BFA, Pamela Gordon now has a firm grip on the Sport ministry and Boulevard are a legitimate powerhouse on the local scene, to the extent that they have even earned the nickname `Blazers'.

Meanwhile, Colts, spurred by two goals from Gary Darrell, who was then a professional player with the Washington Diplomats in the now-defunct North American Soccer League, and one off the boot of Danny Robinson, shattered the dreams of Second Division giant-killers Warwick United 3-0.

It was the second year in succession that the Devonshire club had taken the title, having beaten PHC 2-1 in the final after a replay the previous year.

Two years later they would again appear as finalists only to lose to Somerset and the scenario repeated itself in 1984.

Colts sunk to a new low in 1987 when they were relegated from the First Division, but nevertheless earned their way to the final again the next year, while winning promotion as well as the Second Division crown.

Darrell reflected on the glory days when Colts, with the likes of Carlton (Pepe) Dill, Marcus Douglas and Albert Dowling, were a feared power.

"We were all international players at the senior level and a far more mature team than what they have now,'' said Darrell, who recently resigned as the Bermuda national team coach. "Back then we were pretty much expected to win it, as Warwick were a Second Division club.'' In comparing the current group, which has Craig Smith as captain, leading the way along with midfielder/forward Ellington Weldon and Mark Ray, he said that they are much less experienced with many having less than two years' experience competing in the top flight.

"This is a much younger team. They've done extremely well and much of the credit must go to Lorenzo (Symonds).

"Obviously they had a plan and have been quite consistent throughout the season, challenging for the league. And it certainly hasn't been an easy road to the (FA Cup) final.'' The former inside forward, noted for his dribbling skills as well as being a prolific scorer, will be firmly in Colts' corner on Sunday. He emphasised that the mark of a championship team is one that is able to rise and win the big matches.

Noting how Colts were often the bridesmaid and not the bride back in his playing days, he was hopeful that the present crew would not fall into that category.

Dowling, a lethal striker during his prime with a tremendous work ethic, said that the key ingredients to winning should always be team play, with players submersing their own egos.

"Back then we went out with a common goal, knowing that the only way to win was as a team.

"It's all about teamwork. Never giving up until the last whistle blows, remaining focussed and everyone carrying out the coach's instructions.

"Back then we had a few special players, but they were only as good as the team performed.'' Sunday will witness whether Colts are ready take on the mantle of champions or if a little more seasoning is required.

GARY DARRELL -- Had his share of hard luck at National Stadium as a Colts player.