Bringing veterans Noel Gibbons and Arnold Manders back into the Cup Match picture might not have been the most popular move. But it was one that St.George's skipper Clay Smith feels was completely justified.

Although stylish innings of 65 by Gibbons and 60 by Manders in last week's trial proved that both are still capable performers, the pair will have to continue to impress in the remaining trial matches in order to prove that Smith made the right decision.

Smith admitted this week: "I did get a lot of negative feedback from different people around the club after asking the two players to come back and get involved.

"Basically this negativity came because they were veterans and the club have always leaned towards getting the younger players involved.

"But what I said to these folks was that it was okay to look at it that way when we had the cup. Now that we don't, we have to look at all of our resources. It's about trying to win the cup back as quickly as possible.'' Gibbons and Manders had a falling out with the East End club when they were both unceremoniously dumped from the Cup Match team. Both criticised the club for the way in which they were dealt, having given years of loyal service.

Gibbons played his last game in 1993 and Manders made his last appearance the following year.

But agreeing to make themselves available and eligible for selection this year indicated that the wounds had healed.

"If bringing them back to win the cup is what it takes, then that's what has to be done,'' said Smith. "I am not saying that they are guaranteed a place in Cup Match, but it's nice to know we have the option of picking them when the times comes.

"I've made this decision as the skipper. My selectors don't have a problem with it and at the end of the day I guess if the players pull their weight it will just cause a few headaches when it comes to selection time.

"I am more than satisfied with what they did on the weekend. I thought both of them came in and did a commendable job, even though there were only nine people on the field.

"A lot of people were saying because there was a shortage of fielders, it was easier to score runs. But both came in at crucial times and showed good form.'' Gibbons came to the crease when the captain's XI were struggling at 14 for two and Manders, playing for the vice-captain's XI, batted when the game could have gone either way, virtually winning the game for his team.

Smith, meanwhile, insisted he wasn't overlooking the club's younger talent in preference of the two veterans.

But he said some of the young players needed to show more dedication and commitment in order to break through. Too many, he said, wanted things to be handed to them on a plate.

"If there is a young player out there who has potential and I am 100 percent sure he can get the job done, then I will support his inclusion. But if I have any doubt and feel that one of the veterans can get the job done better, then I will lean towards the older player,'' said Smith.

With opener Wendell Smith and Clevie Wade not contesting positions this year, St. George's have at least two roles to fill.

"Opening is probably one of the most important positions in Cup Match. It's going to set the stage for our run chase,'' explained Smith "Whoever does open is going to have to be somewhat explosive and we have some who are capable and qualified to play that role.'' Among those challenging for the position are Eugene Foggo, Jason Lewis, Dexter Smith and Dennis Archer.

Smith also confirmed that Lionel Cann, now playing in Scotland, would be returning in a bid to retain his position by playing in the final trial.

St. George's play their second trial match today at Wellington Oval against Western Stars. A third trial is being considered against Bailey's Bay.

NOEL GIBBONS -- pressing for a Cup Match recall after three years on the sidelines.