THREE Points clear after eight games would be a position most managers would settle for, but apply any cliche you like -- "It's a marathon not a sprint" or "They don't dish out trophies in October" to name two -- and there won't be any parties just yet.

The early season exchanges have shown that most teams in our League are capable of taking points off anyone else. We suffered this three weeks ago after dominating Scorpion NW for 90 minutes, we could only draw 2-2. The promotion race could involve seven teams although Brinscall will have to play more than once a month if they are to mount a serious challenge.

Last Saturday we faced last season's Third Division champions, Oak Tree, who were undefeated thus far. With the game featuring a competition between both sets of forwards to see who could miss the most chances, we were pleased to grind out a 2-0 win.

Saturday also saw the return of the person in football I love the most -- the linesman abuser who knows you're cheating even though he's not in line. Resplendent in shorts that would have graced Hulk Hogan and that brought back memories of the days when The Undertones and Jilted John topped the charts, our friend managed to emit enough venom to warrant the referee issuing a dismissal. £27 well spent.

I must briefly mention the vast improvement in the situation regarding officials. Having someone appointed to a fixture every week is something of a novelty and our new Appointments Secretary Bill Markham deserves everyone's thanks for his work so far.