MARC STAMP, STAR Writer

HUMBLE Lion will look to maintain their unbeaten run in the last 10 games when they face off against struggling Reno in the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) matchday 23 at Effortville Community Centre in Clarendon tomorrow. Match time is 3 p.m.

It will be the start of the RSPL third and final preliminary stage to decide the teams that make the top-four play-offs and the two that will be relegated.

The Humble Lion team have not tasted defeat since a 1-0 loss against Tivoli Gardens on December 7. In the last encounter, they upstaged leaders Arnett Gardens 2-1, on home turf, and will be hunting another three points.

Since Donovan Duckie took over coaching duties, the team has improved and moved from last position in early November to fifth position on 32 points behind Arnett (45), Waterhouse (41), Montego Bay United (36), Harbour View (34).

Rivoli United and Tivoli Gardens are also on 32 points; however, Humble Lion has a better goal difference in the race for semi-final spots.

"It will be a difficult game, as mentally we are on a high after beating Arnett. We have to be mindful as teams are fighting for points to stay in contention and also to avoid relegation," Duckie told STAR Sports yesterday. "We have to just go out there and do what we have to do. "

With regards to the team's turn around in form, Duckie said: "I think we are more organised. The approach from the players have changed. The players now realise that it is their job and are behaving as professionals."

He also praised assistant coach Linval 'Palla' Wilson and club president Mike Henry for their roles.

"Linval Wilson has played a crucial role; we are definitely on the same page. The support from Mike Henry has been tremendous," the former national Under-20 team coach informed.

Humble Lion will rely on Devon Hodges, captain Jermaine Christian, Wolry Wolfe, and new recruits Francois Swaby and Gregory Lewis to continue their good run.

Meanwhile, Reno'scoach, Wendell Downswell, says his team will be looking to surprise Humble Lion.

"It will always be a tough game against a team that is unbeaten in 10 games. However, we have not lost in our last four games, so the confidence in the camp is high."

Reno's victory charge will come from the league's top marksman, Craig Foster, who is on 14 goals, as well as Afiba Chambers, Linval Wilson Jnr,. Renorio Downswell, Kayce Bromfield, and Codean Smikle.

In another game of interest, Arnett Gardens will look to rebound from their first loss in 12 games when they meet Sporting Central. Arnett are on course for a place in the top-four play-off round, while Sporting Central are in the relegation zone on 21 points in 11th position in the 12-team RSPL.

Tomorrow's games

3 p.m. - Barbican vs Rivoli United at Barbican Complex

3 p.m. - Humble Lion vs Reno at Effortville Community Centre, Clarendon

3 p.m. - Montego Bay United vs Boys' Town at WesPow Park, St James

3 p.m. - Sporting Central vs Arnett Gardens at Juici Park, Clarendon

6:30 p.m. - Harbour View vs Cavalier SC at Harbour View Stadium

Monday night game

8:30 p.m. - Waterhouse vs Tivoli Gardens at Waterhouse Stadium