If Challengers Somerset Bridge think Southampton Rangers will be suffering any effects from their tour of England in today's Western Counties Cup final at Southampton Oval they had better think again.

According to Rangers' sports chairman Randy Raynor his side is primed and ready for the challenge, although they just returned from their trip yesterday.

"There is no chance we will be caught on the down side, in fact our boys returned enthusiastic about the possibility of being in position where we can win four titles this year,'' said Raynor.

When the team left they felt they had a chance of winning just three, the Western Counties, Champion of Champions and the Premier Division Knockout, but now they find themselves in position where they can challenge for the Premier Division league title too.

The top of the league tables show Western Stars with 153 points, Southampton with 145 and St. David's with 140. All have two games left.

The shock loss last week by leaders Stars to Cleveland County at Wellington Oval opened the way for a two-team league race and Rangers welcomed the news with delight.

"Yes, the boys were inspired when they heard that they were back in the race as a result of the loss by Stars, and now with the added boost they have returned with the prime goal of winning every title that is left within their reach,'' said Raynor.

"While in England they did a lot of practising and played just two matches, but it was really a learning trip for them and they return in a good frame of mind and the bit wiser.

"There is no fear of us being tired when we take on Bridge on Saturday, we expect them to be tough opponents but I am sure that coach Clevie Wade and captain Janeiro Tucker feel that we can overcome whatever they have to offer and keep a hold on the trophy.''

Tomorrow, Rangers play the second vital game of the weekend when they take on Cleveland at Southampton Oval where they should also be favourites.

However the day's top clash is at St. John's field where leaders Stars entertain champions St. David's in a game neither team was aware was scheduled until the middle of the week.

"No, we didn't know about it. In fact, our skipper Clay Smith went abroad because we all thought St. David's were idle this weekend, but having been advised by the Board mid-week we have named a squad for the game,'' said St. David's team manager Delby Borden.

It is not known how prepared Stars for the game.

Other see Bailey's Bay at home to Flatts and St. George's welcoming Somerset at Wellington Oval.

Meanwhile, the Junior Eastern Counties Cup final will be played today at Sea Breeze between cup holders St. David's and Cleveland.