AFTER numerous suspected cases of the chikungunya virus throughout the clubs almost brought the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) to a halt in recent weeks, all scheduled matches in Round Five have been given the green light by organisers.

And there should be plenty to cheer about for spectators as, for the first time this season, a double-header will be played at the National Stadium.

In the 4:00 pm opener, undefeated Rivoli United, who have five points from three matches, take on Premier League newcomers Barbican FC (two points). The Barbican team is yet to lose after two outings in the nation’s top flight and the players and staff should be further buoyed after turning back Cavalier SC in the Champions Cup Knock-out on Friday.

In the 6:00 pm feature game at the Stadium, Harbour View FC, with an uncharacteristic two points from three matches, will be challenged by seventh-placed Boys’ Town FC (four points). Neither team has been anywhere close to their best this season, but if key players hit their strides, football lovers could be in for a treat.

Elsewhere, champions Montego Bay United, in sixth place with a disappointing four points from their four games so far, host eighth-placed Sporting Central Academy (three points) at the WesPow Park in St James, beginning at 3:30 pm.

At the Edward Seaga Sports Complex, 11th-placed Tivoli Gardens FC (two points) face fourth-placed Reno FC (five points) in another 3:30 pm start.

In the latest kick-off of the day, Humble Lion FC, who are at the foot of the table with a mere point, welcome unbeaten league leaders Cavalier SC (eight points) to the Effortville Community Centre in a game set to start at 6:30 pm.

Cavalier will be stung by the 2-3 extra-time result to Barbican and are undoubtedly eager to soothe the pain of that defeat.

In tomorrow’s RSPL Monday Night fixture starting at 9:15 pm, old foes Arnett Gardens FC and last season’s losing finalists Waterhouse FC match skills at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex.

Fans can be prepared for top-quality action between two former champions. To add further spice to the encounter, Waterhouse were the team which eliminated Arnett Gardens at the semi-final stage last season.

— Sanjay Myers

Today’s game

3:30 pm — Montego Bay United vs Sporting Central @ WesPow Park

3:30 pm — Tivoli Gardens vs Reno @ Edward Seaga Sports Complex

4:00 pm — Rivoli United vs Barbican @ National Stadium

6:00 pm — Harbour View vs Boys’ Town @ National Stadium

6:30 pm — Humble Lion vs Cavalier @ Effortville Community Centre

Tomorrow’s game

9:15 pm — Arnett Gardens vs Waterhouse @ Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex