AS the Clacton and District League players gird their loins in readiness for the second half of the 2014/15 season, the big question in division one is can anyone stop Nomads Panthers?

The Panthers begin the new year with an impressive 14-point lead.

As last year, James Denyer has gone through the first half of the season with an unblemished record.

And with Colin Webber and Gill Locke producing consistent results, only a shock of seismic proportions will prevent the team taking the title for a third year running.

Second-placed Nomads Lions are the surprise team of the season.

With brothers Paul and Sam Hume in fine form and John Hatley and John Fenton providing steadfast support, the Lions are favourites to take the runners-up spot.

Walton A and Brotherhood A, both quality sides, were expected to be the main title challengers.

But their problems in regularly fielding full teams mean they find themselves in a battle for third place.

At the foot of the table, Brotherhood B, with the consistent Martin Edwards continuing to average over 50 per cent, will be confident of staying clear of danger.

Unsurprisingly, the two promoted sides, Windsor Kestrels and Windsor Ravens, are facing the prospect of a speedy return to the second division.