The most often heard criticism of the way that the SAL is currently structured is -- too much travelling -- which is both time consuming and expensive and deters teams from staying to socialise after games. So the Bluebloods have a vested interest in who is relegated in both the Senior and Intermediate First Divisions. However, the benefits might be minimised if equi distant clubs are promoted.

In Senior Division One -- Crouch End have gone and its between Old Parkonians and NUFC Oilers for the other doomed spot. From a selfish point of view we prefer Parks to survive -- it's easier to get to, a better pitch and great food (we would all miss the catering ladies).

Their last 2 games are against each other and Parks have one more point in the bag on 19 so they will be favourites to survive with one win -- probably on 22 points -- two draws will also suit them so Oilers must not lose their game this Saturday. If they do then adios.

Intermediate Division One has more relegation permutations. It looks as though Old Parkonians are going down with 19 points BUT if Alleyns and Old Garchonians lose both of their last 2 games they will both be relegated and Parks will survive. They have 18 and 15 points respectively. Old Garchonians have a tough task as they play Civil Service and Actonians.

Actonians only have 19 points so need a win to be safe -- their other game is against our neighbours Old Wilsonians -- this is Wilsonians last game and they may need a point to survive on 21 points and a better goal difference than the other candidates. Another big, big game.

I can't see Old Garchonians surviving -- as points in the bag are like gold dust at this time of the season. So for me its goodbye to them and Parks.

After all these predictions -- we will only be marginally better off time wise as the First team will have to travel to EBOGS and either Bank Of England or Actonians (probably The Bank). The Reserves will also have to go to EBOGS and Winchmore Hill so they will have little or no benefits.

The possible revisions to the SAL STRUCTURE will be circulated to the clubs, for their input, in the next two or three weeks so there will be some beneficial changes in the coming seasons.