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ISL top dogs battle for title

The top two teams in the Island Soccer League (ISL) will do battle for the 2011 title as Knights clash with Arsenal tomorrow night at the National Sports Centre.The pair won their respective divisions with the Knights going undefeated in league play for the second year running while Arsenal suffered only one loss to the Royal.In getting to the final, Arsenal dominated the Union winning the semi-final 13-4, courtesy of Shaki Pearman’s five goals. He took up the slack for the league’s leading goalscorer Cecoy Robinson who missed the showdown.The Knights finished strongly in the other semi-final, holding off the Kings 5-2.Both Knights and Arsenal are seeking their first title at the second time of asking, with this being Arsenal’s second successive trip to the final.The Knights played in the 2007 championship game.For Arsenal and coach John Barry Nusum, it will be about maintaining a steady flow to the game while not getting carried away in key moments.“The game on Sunday will be determined by which team can execute in critical points of the match,” said Nusum.“For our team, keeping concentration for the entire 60 minutes will be our goal. When you play a team as good as the Knights you have to maintain that concentration. “Noting the impressive records held by both sides, Nusum explained that focus would be needed when they play a side as dangerous as the Knights, who have shown a way of coming back into games after falling behind.“I wouldn’t say that it has been very straight forward for either team this season.” added the former Philadelphia Kixx striker.“We had some close games and lost to the Royal but we were able to make key plays in our games to pull off victories throughout the season.“The Knights were behind in several games but because of their level they were always in a position to finish off teams late. They are probably the fittest team in the league and they showed that last night against the Kings to come from behind.“For me this is the way that you want it.“You want to say that you played against the best and challenged yourself to earn rewards.“The Knights have set a high standard of play and that is why they are undeafeated.“I have a huge respect for they way that they go about their business both on and off the pitch. Keishon (Smith) has done an excellent job in preparing the team and they will be hard to beat.“I think that for the league this final is one the fans have been waiting for and will love to watch.”Kick-off for tomorrow’s night game is 7.30 pm.