Kwesi Mugisa, Staff Reporter

MEADHAVEN UNITED could take a giant step in closing out a successful bid for a place in local top flight football, if they defeat an ailing Wadadah at the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) field, when the second round of the National Premier League (NPL) play-offs kick off in Montego Bay today.

Already on nine points, after securing three straight wins in their first three matches, another win for the Kingston and St Andrew Football Association (KSAFA) team, coupled with a loss for York in the day's other game, could see them qualify with two rounds remaining. In fact, simply avoiding defeat will put Meadhaven in touching distance of their objective.

Threat of elimination

Another loss for winless Wadadah will almost certainly eliminate them from the competition, temporarily ending their dreams of a return to the top flight.

In the day's other game, Rivoli and York, two teams still very much in contention for promotion, will battle each other at the Spanish Town Prison Oval. Rivoli, already on six points, are favourites to advance alongside Meadhaven, Eastern Confed team York, on three points, is by no means out of the race and in a highly unlikely scenario, both teams could even overtake the leaders. It is a fact Meadhaven coach, Lijyasu Simms, has chosen not to take for granted.

"The job is not yet over, we will have to keep our heads down and look to take all three points when we tackle Wadadah," he said.

"We are leading but every encounter is important to us and we are going out there to work hard," he added.

First leg encounter

In the first leg encounter Meadhaven beat Wadadah 2-1 at the Constant Spring Complex. The team should also be bolstered by the return national senior team invitee, Keammar Daley, who was rested in the team's weekend encounter against York.

Despite being on the outside looking in after two losses, York have not given up hope of advancing to the Premier League.

"Over the years, if you watch this competition it is always possible for various scenarios to occur," said York's coach, Patrick Barclay.

"It's never over and we will keep fighting until the very last game," he said.