Bermuda's footballers may not be at their sharpest in tonight's clash against the Hamilton Thunder - but it's the exposure that matters more than the result.

Declaring that the Island's two matches against the visitors is part of a systematic build-up for future international assignments, the Bermuda Football Association's General Secretary David Sabir said a number of players with varying experience have been chosen to do battle against the Canadians in tonight's game at the National Sports Centre at 7 p.m.

"We're in the restructuring and experimentation phase of the senior international programme. Players in the squad would have represented Bermuda at various times throughout their careers at senior or youth level.

"This is an attempt, as we move forward, to sustain activity at this level and we'll mix inexperienced players with experienced ones. You will see players who are recognised at the international and domestic level," explained Sabir.

He said the BFA's mission is "to continue to give players experience against teams from outside of Bermuda" and the association is aiming to bring as many of these matches to Bermuda as possible while also sending teams overseas to compete.

Sabir noted it's fortunate that the Thunder, who compete in the Canadian Professional Soccer League, decided to start their pre-season programme on the Island.

"We are hoping to develop a good relationship with their organisation as they are very strong on youth development and football programmes for girls. Over the years we have created links in the US and UK and we could do ourselves no harm by creating further links with our counterparts in Canada," he said, reminding that Bermuda has previously hosted the Canadian national team.

"We are probably not going to be as sharp as we might expect but the intent is to keep our exposure and experience to the fore and continue to build upon them as we move forward into upcoming senior and international competitions."

Bermuda's team will be chosen from the following players: Dwayne Adams, Khabir Dill, Kevin Bean (goal-keepers); Meshach Wade, Damon Edwards (centre backs); Shannon Deshields, Tori Davies, Cory Dowling (full backs); Jared Peniston, Domico Coddington, Clevon Hill, Jason Davies, Jani Raynor, Otis Minors (midfielders); Stevie Astwood, Lloyd Holder, Damon Ming, Kevin Lambe, Keith Jennings and Kamen Tucker (forwards).