RESEARCHERS who discovered a scientific reason why playing at home usually ends in victory are hoping to test North-East Premiership footballers next season.

Scientists at Northumbria University found levels of the male hormone testosterone were higher in players facing a home game.

Even higher levels came from players from a Premiership junior team about to play at home against their deadly North-East rivals.

The Newcastle scientists believe a higher level of testosterone, linked to aggression, confidence and dominance, could account for the traditional home advantage for teams.

It suggests humans, like animals, will fiercely defend home territory.

Dr Nick Neave, a biological psychologist who carried out the research with sports psychologist Dr Sandy Wolfson, said it may be possible to develop a way of checking testesterone levels before a big game.

"The technology which will allow that to be done may be around fairly soon," said Dr Neave.

At present, testosterone levels in saliva take several days to analyse.

If an instant test is developed, the next step would be to work out ways of increasing hormone levels in some players and reducing them in others.

While players need to have high testosterone levels to give their best in a competititive match, sky-high levels could lead to players getting sent off.

"I think the best man managers are able to hype up a player who is a bit low and maybe bring down a player who is a bit high," said Dr Neave.

After working with a North-East Unibond League side and a Premiership club's junior side, the scientists have applied to take samples from Premiership players.

"We have asked a North-East Premiership team if we can have access to their first team squad next season. I would hope they would be very interested," said Dr Neave.

Statistics show about two-thirds of football matches are won by the home side.