ST JAMES, Jamaica— Flanker United could secure the first semi-final berth in the St James Football Association/ Sandals Resorts International Major League on Thursday, if they can beat Heights FC in their Zone A return round game at the UDC Field.

Flanker United leads Zone A with 12 points, two more than third placed Heights FC who need to win to keep their hopes of making it past the first round alive.

Also on Thursday, Lilliput Rovers and Cambridge United, both on nine points, will meet in a Zone B game that would help the winner to stay on course for a place in the semi-final.

Flanker United had won their first round meeting with Heights FC 4-0 and will go into the game with the edge and will hope Danique Clarke, Humboia Ford and Jermaine Irving, who have combined for nine of their 11 goals,  will be able to lead them to another win.

Heights FC are coming off a win over Wadada United, and will hope Jevar Maxwell who is joint leader with five goals will be able to spark an upset win.

Lilliput Rovers who just missed the semi-final last season, can take a big step towards making amends if they can beat Cambridge United at Cambridge today and avenge their 3-2 loss in the first round.

Lilliput Rovers are marginally ahead of Cambridge United in the points standing, playing one game less and boasting a better goal-difference, but Cambridge United still have their fate in their hands.

Defending champions Reggae Youths can book their semi-final place on Friday if they can beat Montego Bay Boys Club and extend their winning run to six games.

-Paul A Reid