Bateman still playing down Sylvans' chances

SYLVANS are closing in on their first Youth One title for 15 years. They beat champions North 5-2 at Northfield and if they beat closest rivals Bels at the Track on Thursday evening the trophy will be nigh-on in the bag.

But if Ray Queripel's Bels lads, who beat St Martin's 8-0 and have played a game more than the leaders, win then they will heap the pressure back on the westerners.

And such a result would probably bring Vale Rec back into the race after their shock 2-2 draw with Rangers down the road at Corbet Field. 'We are in a good position but so are Bels and depending on how results go Rec are still there,' said Sylvans Youth One coach Clive Bateman.