AFTER a disappointing performance last year when they were one of the favourites to win the girls' 4x800 metres, the Natoya Goule-led Manchester High will be hoping to recoup losses this time around, following a dominating season so far.

They had a smashing performance at the Gibson Relays where they won in 8:49.01, turning back Holmwood Technical and a strong Bickle team made up of some top United States schoolgirl half-milers. The Manchester High can make it win number two in this event after their first and only victory in 1995.

Failed to fire

Manchester failed to fire last year after a very poor opening leg by Sharlene Brown who handed over the baton in 12th position and from there on it was too much work for the others as they could only manage fourth. The outstanding Goule should make it difficult for any team to beat Manchester.

Defending champions Holmwood Technical with seven victories will want to break the deadlock with Vere Technical who also have seven wins in this event.

Led by a good all-round performances last year, the Holmwood team made up for their loss in the 4x400 metres by winning in 8:41.92. Two members of that team will be back in Keno Heaven and Shantea McLean and with the outstanding Chris-Ann Gordon not expected to be in their line-up, it is going to be a tough task for the defending champions. With a season best of 8:51.91 at the Gibson Relays, they will have to improve on that time if they are to retain their title.

Winners in 2003 and 2004, the Michael Dyke-coached Edwin Allen will be hoping to upstage their rivals and although they have retained the Tracy sisters, Nikita and Ristananna, from last year team, and with Mackola Josephs, Sharlene Nickle and Carla Williams to choose from, they will have to improve on their Gibson Relay run if they are to trouble both Manchester High and Holmwood Technical.

- R.G.