1976 FC Phoenix, under the guidance of new head coach Delroy Patterson, is gearing up for a transformative season in the TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) Tier One. The Tobago-based team, which finished ninth last season, is optimistic that the return of home games to their schedule will provide the momentum needed to climb the league standings. This season, Phoenix is set to play up to six home matches at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, a significant improvement from the previous campaign where they had no home fixtures. Their season opener on October 24 will see them face Terminix La Horquetta Rangers in a double-header event, following a match between Miscellaneous Police FC and San Juan Jabloteh. Patterson, who led Whim Leeds United to the Tobago FA Cup title last year, has set a top-four finish as the team’s primary goal. However, he acknowledges the competitive nature of the league and emphasizes a game-by-game approach. ‘Realistically, we have a lot to put in if we want to finish in the top four because there are a lot of other good clubs out there,’ Patterson told Newsday. ‘If we finish in the top six again, I’d take that any day.’ The team has undergone significant changes in the off-season, with the departure of key players like Kassidy Davidson and Jariel Arthur. However, Patterson is confident in the abilities of players such as Deleon Beckles, Trevin Caesar, Kerri McDonald, Che Richards, and captain Duvaughn Daniel to step up. With the TTPFL introducing a new promotion and relegation structure, Patterson is determined to keep Phoenix in the top flight. ‘The guys are upbeat, and we want to continue playing in Tier One and not get demoted,’ he said. The team’s schedule includes challenging home fixtures against last season’s runners-up MIC Central FC Reboot, holders Defence Force, and Police FC. Patterson believes the support of the Tobago faithful will be crucial in inspiring the team to success. ‘It’s a morale boost for the guys, and knowing they have the fans behind them will give them more energy,’ he added.