Twelve years ago, Arnett Gardens were the toast of the country. They had just defended their premier league title and things were looking rosy for the ‘Junglists’.

It was their third title following their 1978 triumph and these came after some near misses in the semi-finals and final in the 80s and 90s.

The club, with a stadium capacity of 5,000 and serving the tough south St Andrew enclave, went into a lull when its talented crop of youngsters had diminished.

But over the last two years, expectations are high following the club’s success in JFF Under-21 tournament with young players bursting through the ranks and forcing their way in the senior set-up.

As a result, Arnett finished the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) in fourth place.

With some of the most animated and loyal fans around, the pressure of ending that long wait for a league title is mounting.

Now with the league format reverted to the old cup style finale after six-year break, Arnett Gardens are suddenly one of the favourites based on their performances whenever a cup is at stake.

The pressure will certainly be on head coach Calvin Lewis to deliver the trophy to the ‘Junglists’ and they want it in style.

“Every one now feels like we have a chance, so I welcome the change right now,” said Lewis, a police officer.

“This season, I expect Arnett to go all the way with this group of players we have right now. The players are upbeat and are going out there to give it their best shot and capture the premier league this season,” said Lewis, who led Portmore United to the title in 2011/12 season.

Arnett Gardens, as usual, were busy in the transfer market and brought in a eight players, including former national Under-20 striker Andre Clennon from Waterhouse.

Another shrewd signing is the under-rated Carlos Barrett, Andre Dyce (Highgate), Theo Brown (Waterhouse), the Harbour View duo of wingbacks Kimorlee Brissett and Jaron Richards, along with the promising Jamar Jackson from Portmore United.