10th spot in the Bermuda Football Association First Division following a meeting of the executives last night.

In a unanimous ruling, it was deemed that the Islanders, relegated along with Hamilton Parish at the end of last season, were the side most worthy of a position in the top flight after the recent withdrawal of Hotels.

The leagues committee made the recommendation to the executives, who duly approved the motion.

"On the value of the points they accumulated last season it was decided that they would be the best team,'' said an obviously relieved BFA administrative assistant David Sabir last night.

"It is absolute! Final! Cast in stone! There will not be another meeting on this ... I hope!'' For weeks top executives of the sports governing body wrestled with the issue of whether there should be 10 teams in the First Division, even seeking legal advice on the matter as they made one decision then another.

However, a petition led by St. David's and signed by several affiliates prompted the association to have another rethink and on Monday night the decision was made to adhere to the legal advice given which urged the association to return the division to its original 10 teams.

"I think that the ultimate goal is to promote and enhance association football in Bermuda,'' said Sabir. "And you have different individuals with differing opinions as to how to achieve that objective.'' At one time it was suggested that a play-off be implemented between Wolves -- third in the Second Division last year -- and St. David's, but Wolves were said to have never been a factor last night.

Stuart Crockwell, secretary at St. David's and the main mover behind the aforementioned petition, expressed joy on behalf of the club when informed of their re-admission.

"We're delighted,'' said Crockwell. "The guys have been training quite hard and preparing for a season in the Second Division.

"This is an added bonus. Now the players have to buckle down and establish themselves.

Last season St. David's just failed to avoid relegation in their first season in the First Division.

"It is up to them to prove to the pundits that they are worthy. We're hoping to improve on last year's performance and survive in it (First Division) and hopefully develop into a power.'' Crockwell stressed that the petition was not a move purely for the sake of St.

David's being reinstated, but to force the BFA to adhere to their own constitution and bye-laws.

He added that the club would also be presenting a request asking that the players granted transfers from the club in the off-season be allowed a period of amnesty to return if it is their desire.

Now the BFA can go ahead with finalising its schedule for the new season which Sabir said that this would be worked for the rest of the week.