Despite losing their last two matches, one a shock 1-0 home defeat at the hands of struggling St. George's, North Village remain optimistic about their chances against high-riding Devonshire Cougars in Monday's Martonmere Cup Final.

Village, who have already inflicted one defeat on their cross-town rivals this season, believe they can repeat that performance on an expansive St. David's pitch which should be to their liking.

But coach Scott Morton is the first to admit his side have some way to go to realise their potential. "Basically, I think we are lacking in the goalscoring positions, going forward creating chances and capitalising on them," said Morton.

"One of the problems that we have encountered, and it remained prevalent even when we were winning, has been maintaining a consistent team because of early injuries. With the amount of players we have available, we have to utilise and rotate them to make assessments in regards to where individuals can fit in to best assist the overall team.

"I don't think we have built up a good rhythm as of yet. I think that we have to realise that as we are considered one of the top teams in the Premiership, there's only one way to go . . . up!

"Our players have to come out with that added fight knowing that other teams are gunning for us, and I feel that they have failed to step it up and recognise that this situation occurs worldwide in sports.

"Once you are on top, you have to raise your game just that much higher and I think they have become somewhat complacent. Our last two losses were only a matter of time in coming."

Morton added: "If I'm correct I believe we are the only team that have defeated Cougars this year, so I know that they have something to prove to us. They have been playing entertaining soccer, which is needed in this Island. Overall, in comparison to other teams, they are exciting to watch with their explosive young duo of Heys (Wolffe) and (Raymond)Beach.

"It's going to be a good match-up but it remains to be seen just how they will feature on the wide surface at St.David's, and have consistency for 90 minutes on a pitch that will be advantageous to our passing game.

"For our fans, I know it's been frustrating, as it has been for myself and the players. However, we have those recent losses on tape and this week we will be reviewing those performances to assess our strengths and more importantly our weaknesses. Hopefully this will assist us towards preparations for Monday's final."

The holiday game will be preceded by an under nine pee-wee match between Village and the day's hosts, St. David's.