Golden Jaguars pumped ahead of Barbados showdown

By Avenash Ramzan

Guyana’s Golden Jaguars are pumped and ready for their showdown against Barbados in the CONCACAF Nations League on Thursday (September 6) at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora.

The Jaguars had a full training session in the steaming Tuesday morning heat at the playing venue, under the watchful eyes of new Head Coach, Michael Johnson.

According to Johnson, all the pieces are falling into place ahead of the highly anticipated encounter.

“Very good,” Johnson replied when quizzed on preparations.

“Training session this morning is going ahead absolutely perfect. Players are hungry, players are showing the great appetite for work, so we’re very excited.”

Johnson highlighted that there were specific areas of focus at Tuesday’s session, keeping in mind the opposition’s noted style of play.

“Absolutely. There’s a lot of stuff we’re doing today without the ball- the intensity with how we want to press; when they play in the middle of the pitch how we want to get the ball back and also in the final third as well. So this training session is going really well. The players are adapting to what we’re asking and giving us 110%,” Johnson explained.

While it is the on-field play and prowess that will ultimately win matches, Johnson is cognizant of the positive vibes that can be generated by a vociferous crowd rooting for the home team.

“I think it’s really vital that everybody sees what this group of players, this group of staff is trying to do. We’re trying to change direction. There is no getting away that it’s been disappointing over the last few years and there’s a target we’ve been set and we want to achieve it; so we want the public to come and give support to this group of players,” Johnson charged.

He added, “The mood is one that they want success. The mood is one that they want to create history. The mood is one that they have a real appetite to work hard and give 110% for the cause.”

Thursday’s match will start at 19:00h, and admission to the venue is G$1,000 (approx. US$5).