FAR from daunted, it appears hopes within the community are high ahead of England's mouth-watering World Cup clash with Brazil on June 21. Take a look.

Malcolm MacMillan, chairman of St Albans District Council Cabinet and St Albans City FC: Although I'm a Scot, I'm a member of the England Supporters Club and have been to most of England's recent matches, home and away including the wonderful match in Germany. I don't think Brazil have been properly tested yet. They haven't had to cope with fast forwards running at them and I think Michael Owen, who is coming on at just the right time, will run rings around their defence. England's defence is also particularly strong and when you listen to them, I think they've got an idea they're capable of something great. I think they'll go on to win the World Cup. Prediction: 3-0 to England.

Martin Ahern, manager of First Sport Ltd, St Albans: I think England have a good chance. Brazil didn't look spectacular against Belgium, but obviously their strike force is far superior. Their defence is a bit light, lacking in quality, and I think England are a better all-round team. I don't rate Heskey, and would like to see Sheringham or Fowler start, but I'm sure there will be a few goals. Prediction: 2-1 to England (hopefully).

Kerry Pollard, Member of Parliament, St Albans: I'm very confident of an England win. Brazil are going to be strong opposition, they're an attractive team. But I'm pleased with the way England are coming together under Sven-Goran Eriksson and David Beckham is doing a superb job as captain. Prediction: 2-1 to England.

Derek Brown, club captain, St Albans City FC: A big part of it is going to be the heat. England will need to get on top of the game early. Owen and the two centre backs, Rio and Sol, are going to be key players, because it looks like Ronaldo is back to his best. It's really the best attack against the best defence, but I think England will win it. Prediction: 2-1.

David Pinhdiro (Brazilian), Youth with a Mission, Harpenden: This world cup has been like a zebra in Brazil that means like a surprise. Brazil were not playing well before the World Cup, but we're getting better and better now. Ronaldo's form has also surprised us. But England are playing well too. Prediction: 1-0 to Brazil.

Bishop Herbert, Bishop of St Albans, Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Albans: I can't fault England's defensive four, they've been absolutely brilliant, and David Seaman has been remarkable but I wish he'd cut his hair. I think much depends on Owen. He and Heskey are a difficult combination to handle although you never know what you're going to get from Heskey. I'd probably bring Sheringham on later. But if we keep our shape, I think we'll win. Prediction: 1-0.

Eddie Newton, manager, Verulam Arms: I think we'll play quite open until we go 2-0 up, then the whole 11 will came back and close Brazil down defensively. That's what we've done the whole World Cup. It's going to be difficult, but Owen will be alright and I thinks it's going to be our World Cup. Prediction: 2-1.

Andy Goodchild, co-manager, St Peter's FC: England have picked up since the Sweden game. They're a well-disciplined, organised outfit and althoug Brazil have the best strike-force in the world, I think they'll struggle to break us down. But I think we've got an attack capable of breaking them down. It's now or never for the World Cup. Prediction: 2-1 to England.

For the record, we at the St Albans Observer sports desk have also put our heads on the block. Kevin Affleck: 3-1 to Brazil; Marc Dodd: 4-2 to Brazil; Alan Feldberg: 3-2 to England; Anthony Matthews: 3-2 to England.

June 20, 2002 16:30