TWO time defending champions, Sandals Negril Beach Resort and Spa, will face a stiff test this afternoon when they take on Hedonism II in one of two matches scheduled in the 2002 Western Hotels Sports Association All Island Hotels Netball Competition.

They will face a very talented Hedonism II team, which is coming off a recent 40-34 victory over Group A co-leaders, Beaches Negril.

Meanwhile, frequent quarter finalist, Breezes Runaway Bay will take on sister property, Hedonism III, in the other scheduled match at the Kaiser Sports Club in Runaway Bay, St Ann.

The defending champions have been idle since their 59-14 victory over Beaches Sandy Bay a few weeks ago and despite continuous training, their match readiness is suspect – due to inactivity. Their matches were postponed due to the recent flood rains.

In addition, the Sandals team have lost the services of inspirational player/coach Connie Francis due to pregnancy, and Margaret Byfield, to injury. Suzette Virgo is also injured and last year’s vice captain, Rosemarie Hall, has opted not to play this year.

But according to Sandals Negril’s sports club president, Oliver Reid, the team possesses enough to win. He has warned challengers not to underestimate the reigning champions, as they will not relinquish the title easily.

Players of the calibre of Annmarie King, Julian White, Theresa White and Natalie Skyers are thought to be capable of match winning performances.

Over the years, Hedonism II have always promised much, but have failed to deliver. But captain and goal attack, Shellion Alman is confident that her team will do exceptionally well this year, even though she remains cautious and would not go as far as to predict an outright win.

They will rely on ace goal shooter Dianne Coote who, interestingly enough, represented Sandals Negril in the competition for five years. In addition, her daughter, current national senior player Carla Williams, played for Sandals Negril in the last two years.

Other key players include Teressa Henry, the very dependable Dianne Kerr who will play goal defence and utility player Cleopatra Blair.

In the other match, Breezes Runaway Bay should get the better of Hedonism III and cement their place in the next round.

In matches played earlier this week, last year’s semifinalist Grand Lido Braco defeated Kaisers Sports Club 35-28; Grand Lido Negril clipped Beaches Negril 45-39 and Beaches Sandy Bay conquered Couples Negril 36-12.

The competition will continue on July 5 with Couples Negril hosting Hedonism II. The following day, Sandals Negril will be in action again when they host Group A co-leaders and one of last year’s beaten semi finalists, Grand Lido Negril.