However, in their western counterparts, a team also recently booted from the top flight, they should find an opponent just as determined and as hungry for a return to the big times.

Round-robin format

In the day's other game, Eastern Confed (St Ann) champions Brazil kick off their campaign against South Central Confed (Clarendon) winners Humble Lion at Drax Hall.

The Confederation champions will play on a round-robin, home-and-away format, following which the top two will advance to the DPL.

"Everybody wants to be in the Premier League, it's better salaries, a better profile, it's no different for us and yes, we are very motivated to get back," said Calvert Fitzgerald, coach of August Town.

"We have been putting in the necessary work and I think we are as prepared as can be for the fixture, so the team is looking forward to the start of the play-off," he added.

After his team barely edged out Cavalier for the KSAFA Super League title, Fitzgerald, whose team will be without their second-highest scorer, Donovan Hibbert, admits that a good start could be crucial to his team.

"We saw where a good start was very important to us in the Super League as it is helpful should the team come under pressure later in the competition," he said.

Wadadah's player-coach Daniel Ricketts, who will be unable to suit up having recently done surgery, also highlighted the importance of a return to the top flight.

"I would say there is a lot of pressure. But currently, Montego Bay does not have a team in the top flight and we are determined to get one back there," he said. "The team is in very high spirits right now and we are confident of doing well."

While they did make the play-offs last year, Wadadah had not looked up to the task and managed only one win in a poor showing.

"Last year, we did not perform well, but we are looking to give a much better showing this time around. As long as the team stays focused, I think we can put in a solid performance," Ricketts said.

- K.M.