While Christmas might traditionally bring peace and harmony, for league champions Dandy Town and coach Andrew Bascome, it will offer another blessing - the opportunity to rest.

Of all the Premier Division teams, none are enjoying the break more than the battle-weary Hornets who have suffered a succession of injuries during a testing first half of the season.

"I feel we could have achieved more but taking into consideration all the injuries we suffered to key players, we are still in contention, just three points adrift of the leaders," said Bascome.

The St. John's Road club have managed to overcome formidable odds through a variation of tactical ploys initiated by the coach, who has had to constantly tap into his reservoir of players.

"At one stage it was puzzling to figure out just how we were going to make it through those rough periods," said Bascome. "We dropped a few points, but we also managed to pick up huge wins against PHC and North Village and those are matches that could turn our season around.

"With the sidelined players returning to full strength, their availability will ultimately lend variation to the team in tactical terms. Their return will allow us to exhibit open soccer for the remainder of the season, so this break is definitely important for us if we want to challenge for the remaining honours."

Included on Town's casualty list are veteran forward Carlos Smith, who the coach said was steadily progressing, Janeiro Tucker, who was included in the last game's squad of 16; Devarr Boyles, who has been in and out with a groin injury; captain Lionel Furbert, who has had to contend with a calf injury; as well as Reginald Tucker, Paul Cann and Rodney Bascome who have all suffered knocks.

Town also lost the services of Mark Trott, Sean Smith and recent acquisition David Burchall during their lats match, a victory over North Village.

"Sometimes it feels as as though something is going against us and I often wonder why us?" added Bascome.

The coach said he welcomed the opportunity to scout all of the top teams over the break, in addition to keeping his team in condition.

"It's going to take a lot of commitment from our players but definitely don't count us out!" he warned.