Bermuda national coach Gary Darrell will take over the vacant coaching position at Southampton Rangers.

The Southampton club has been in discussion with Darrell -- and others -- since the sudden departure of player/coach Kenny Burt two weeks ago.

Yesterday, Darrell indicated that he was "leaning toward'' accepting the job.

"Both sides are still investigating the situation at this point,'' said Darrell. "I want to know what their exact plans are.

"It (job) would be convenient, as I live in Southampton, but as I said, `I'm still evaluating things'.

"Most likely, if I do become coach it would be until the end of the season and then have a look at things and what direction needs to be taken.'' Wendell Simmons has been holding the reigns since Burt's departure, however, a designated head coach is desperately needed for a team precariously perched in the midst of a relegation battle.

Rangers are eighth in the Coca-Cola First Division, two points clear of ninth-placed Vasco and five ahead of cellar dwellers St. David's, but facing a tough task tomorrow when they travel west to meet Somerset.

Vasco are similarly in the hunt for a new coach and have been since the removal of Danny Seymour late last year, but have come up empty thus far.

Darrell had been linked to that post, however, it appears they may have lost out in the bidding for his services.

"We're looking around, but most coaches are already doing something,'' said John Rebello, who along with club president Eddie Correia, is the man in charge at present.

"What we're looking for is someone to not only take over the senior team, but to also develop a solid junior programme.'' For North Village, the change has been a subtle one as Andrew Bascome has officially taken over the leadership role, with Joe Trott moving into a role overseeing the entire soccer programme there.

As the championship race heats up further tomorrow, Village stand to gain the most if certain results materialise.

First, though, they need to get past Sunday's opponents, St. David's, who have recently shown that they are not yet willing to concede relegation, evidenced by a 4-2 triumph over Vasco last week for their first league win of the season.

Otherwise, Village will hope for a loss or draw by second-placed Boulevard, who have a tough home match against high-riding Dandy Town.

The aforementioned scenario would boost the North Shore club into solo control of the top spot.

Third-placed Devonshire Colts, meanwhile, travel to face Vasco, while St.

George's entertain PHC at Wellington Oval.

In the Daihatsu Second Division, Social Club face Paget, while BAA host Somerset Eagles.

GARY DARRELL -- Ready to get back in the saddle.