North Village president Shervin Dill has voiced his support for head coach Elliott Jennings and the coaching staff after the club's recent sub-par performances in both the Martonmere and Charity Cup competitions in which they conceded seven goals.

As they prepare for what will be a long season, the Bernard Park club are having to deal with the losses of key players. Their leaky defence have struggled in the absence of key cogs such as Damon Edwards and ex-Bermuda Hogge Robert Wilson, leaving lynchpin Kofi Dill to shoulder most of the responsibility at the back.

But Dill says Village aren't about to push the panic button.

"I have had a chat with our coaching staff and players and encouraged them to hold their heads high, pull up their socks and step up their game," said Dill.

"They are working hard to close the gaps and repair the damage which will get us back on track.

"However, we are in the process of rebuilding at North Village this season as we have had an influx of junior and new players to the club and are seeking the right blend and combination of players.

"We are presently without the services of eight of our starters from last season. Our two goalkeepers, Zane Hendrickson and Jason Williams, defenders Michael Hansey and Robert Wilson, midfielders Damon Edwards and Sammy DeGraffe and forwards Keishon Bean and Shane Hollis are all missing, so we are looking for ways to rectify the situation.

"Despite their absence we still have the depth and quality to do the job for us and maintain our standards. At this time we also have another eight quality players overseas, furthering their education.

"Another strength is our youth development programmes. When they (the young players) return during from the holidays they always boost and complement our squad, so we have the depth. "

Village, who were on the receiving end of a 7-1 thumping from PHC Zebras in the Charity Cup last month, were then beaten 7-3 by Dandy Town this week in the Martonmere Cup.

Tomorrow they are away to Premier Division newboys Southampton Rangers at Southampton Oval in a match from which coach Jennings knows that anything short of a point could heap more pressure on his shoulders.

While not trying to divert attention from their poor start, Dill added that even with bruised egos, there was a chance for the players to pick themselves up and get a fresh start in the league.

"Obviously our pride has been bruised considering recent results. We have never experienced these types of results during my watch as president, which started in 2000," he said.

"However, it is still early in the season and the morale is still high among the players, members and fans.

"We have struggled in the early stages in the past and ended up league champions, so don't count us out."

"At North Village we set the bar high intentionally back in 2000 as part of our strategic plans and objectives. We have become accustomed to requirements and expectations of what it takes to maintain our high standards and competitive edge.

"We have been one of the most successful and accomplished premier teams of recent times as a result of that plan. Our intent is to stick to our objectives and maintain the standards we set for ourselves."