Andrew Bascome is being lined up as the new coach of Second Division team St.

David's.

The Royal Gazette understands that moves have been underway by the club to replace Garrett (Punchy) Dill with Bascome, who is regarded as one of the island's most talented coaches. He has been linked with a move to St. David's in the past, as a player.

Neither Dill, who did not return phone calls, nor Bascome could be reached last night. Club officials were also unavailable.

According to a club source, St. David's, who were relegated last season, have tried to hold meetings with Dill since the season ended, but he has not shown up. Assuming he was no longer interested in the post he has held for the past four years, the club began seeking a replacement.

Dill earned the distinction of being the first coach to take the team into the First Division, which was achieved in 1992-93.

However, in each of those two years the team was relegated, though they were allowed to remain in the top flight last season because of a technicality when Hotels withdrew from the league to leave nine teams in the First Division.

Now, having returned to the Second Division, St. David's are ready to begin rebuilding their team and Bascome is seen as the man to make the changes.

Bascome had just returned to North Village to take up a coaching post last season, having been with Boulevard prior to that.

However, not only does he have roots in St. David's, but he now lives there and that would also have been a key factor in his decision.

St. David's were expected to confirm the new coach at their Annual General meeting last night, a meeting that resumed from late March when the controversy surrounding appointed cricket coach, Albert Steede, dominated proceedings and prevented the election of officers from taking place. Steede was to perform in a role of player-coach this season but later changed his mind, returned the money he had been paid in advance, and stayed with Devonshire Rec where he is now vice captain.

Bascome's younger brother Herbie is captain of the cricket team, while another Bascome, David, played briefly with St. David's in their first season in the First Division before going overseas to play professionally.

Meanwhile, a flood of transfer applications are expected to be submitted to the Bermuda Football Association in the next week as the transfer deadline draws near. There is not much activity at present, but BFA staff are preparing for a late flurry in the final days before the May 31 deadline.

This latest transfer period will be the last for three years as the association will be putting a freeze on transfers, so players will be putting more thought into their moves.

Clubs, too, will be closely scrutinising players and one, North Village, will be holding a mandatory meeting this evening for any players wishing to join them next season.

A number of clubs will be seeking not only new players but also new coaches as well, with teams like PHC and Hamilton Parish both seeking replacements for coaches Alfie Eve and Johnny Nusum who stepped down. Jack Castle, who was with Second Division side Wolves last season, is one name linked with the PHC post, a post he previously held.

ANDREW BASCOME -- Highly-regarded coach.