PvP Question

[Randolph Carter]

As some of you may remember, I have a campaign in play right now that has two parties (good v evil) played by different players on a collision course. They are about a month and a half away from meeting, and it is proving to be a bit more challenging than I thought. I have a slight level gap and numbers issue that may unbalance the encounter. I'm not sure which way though. Just curious what you guys think.

There are 4 good guys- Rog/Fig 12/6, Pal 18, Sorc 16, Wiz/Rog 12/5- run by very seasoned players, with some pretty nice gear. There are 6 bad guys- Cler 17, Rang 14, Bar/Rang 10/3, Fig/Sorc/Spellsword 5/7/2, Fig 14, Rog 13- run by somewhat less experienced players, with some nice gear. The good guys have been playing this campaign off and on for 3 or 4 years now. The bad guys, about a year pretty steadily. Everyone has a feel for their PC. I project that both sides may level at least one more time prior to their meeting. I think that the good guys have a slight advantage in the magic item department.

My questions are: which side do you think may have the advantage, and, how might that be remedied? There is a plotline in motion now that may lead the evil ranger to turn against his current allies when the dance begins. But you know players, they do whatever the heck it is that you don't plan for...

Thanks folks,
R.Carter