night's Special Meeting with member affiliates cautiously optimistic that he will win re-election to the post.

Tyrrell told The Royal Gazette the meeting had been productive in terms of clearing the air and it was now up to the affilates to reach their own conclusions regarding his worthiness as a candidate.

"I'm hopeful...one is always hopeful. I think the democratic process will take place,'' said Tyrrell following the more than two-hour long gathering that featured representatives from approximately 13 clubs.

"We took the opportunity this evening to clarify some outstanding issues, giving another perspective and I think the clubs listened. I think if there were persons who came with some perceived opinions on things now have another position to look at. I think we gave them something to think about.'' Topics addressed included the issue of the non-renewal of Clyde Best's contract as technical director, the failure to demand the release of Shaun Goater and Kyle Lightbourne for World Cup duty, as well as the infamous `Miami Seven' incident.

"I think we put closure to that issue and I hope we also put closure to the pros situation. We put closure to a lot of things tonight.

"Let me say that there may still be some people out there -- because we got just over half of the affiliates out -- who didn't hear the message.'' Tyrrell shrugged when asked if reports of rival candidate Mark Trott already having majority support concerned him. Said Tyrrell: "I'm loose about the whole thing. As I said, I've stated my case...in fact I've stated my case over the last four years, I haven't just waited until today to set my position on the future leadership of the association. I've led by example the last four years and it's now in the hands of the affiliates to make a decision.'' The suggestion of dissension in the current executive regarding whether Tyrrell is best for the job, particularly between first vice-president Aldwyn Savery and second vice-president Elroy Ratteray, annoyed Tyrrell.

"Rubbish! Utter rubbish!'' he responded. "I have 100 percent support from every person that sits around that executive table with me. My position is that the entire executive as it is is capable of carrying Bermuda football forward.''