McLee Smith, despite some whispers that the Bantam registered player may not have met the minimum required age of 16.

A similar situation arose with Somerset teenager Keion Simmons last March when he played against St. David's without an ID card and there were suggestions he might be ineligible.

The issue arises because Bantam players are not required to have ID cards, which is required of senior division players. Yesterday the Bermuda Football Association confirmed that Smith was born in 1977 and the youngster's coach at PHC, Alfie Eve, was also satisfied the club was not breaking any rules.

"As far as we're concerned there is no doubt about his age,'' said Eve yesterday. "We're satisfied and we're sure the BFA are satisfied. He will be 17 in November, but is registered as a Bantam player. There's no question he's eligible to play in the senior team.'' PHC have been bringing the youngster along slowly, introducing him as a substitute after his debut against Somerset when he scored in the 2-2 draw.

"We've had a look at him and feel he has the ability to be an intricate part of the senior team if he sticks with it,'' explained Eve.

Another youngster who has made steady progress with the Zebras this season since making his debut is left-back Blenn Bean, son of former North Village midfielder Randy Bean.

"He came into our squad in the first league game of the season against North Village and has been one of our better players,'' said Eve.