‘Golden Jaguars’ commence training despite heavy rain

Jun 18, 2008 Sports

Focus on fitness, pressing and defending

By Franklin Wilson
Despite heavy rain in the city over the past two days, rendering a number of grounds unplayable, the Golden Jaguars were still able to kick off preparations yesterday at the YMCA Ground, Thomas Lands as they focus on victory in their return World Cup Qualifying fixture against Suriname set for Sunday.

Returning to the squad is midfielder Shawn Bishop while USA based midfielder Kevin Headley also joined the camp.

Headley had contacted the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) expressing an interest in attending trials and was readily given the chance.

Technical Director Jamaal Shabazz also disclosed that USA based striker Randolph Jerome has encountered some immigration issues which may not enable him to travel at this time, while Suriname based Jermaine Brown is still interested in being a part of the team.

Commenting on the strategy for Sunday’s all important game Shabazz said they will try to play using more offensive minded players in the starting line up accepting the fact that it would be a risk.

“This could be our last game or the start of a whole new beginning and the revolutionary always takes the risk and I’m a revolutionary and I take full responsibility. Win, lose or draw Jamaal Shabazz take full responsibility, not the GFF, not Mr. Klass, not no ground, I take full responsibility.”

Thumbs up for Stadium
Shabazz stated that they (Technical staff) are very excited about the top notch nature and quality of the Guyana National Stadium which they inspected on Monday.

“It’s one of the best that I have seen and I have seen a lot of grounds all over the Caribbean, Africa and England and by Caribbean standards, that’s a great ground and conducive to good possession play and this is how we like to play.”

Kudos to Government
Shabazz said the granting of permission by the Government for uses of the Stadium for this encounter is a big move which must be complimented.

“I want to say to them that Allah says the only reward for good is good. And that was a good move and I am proud to be associated with the Guyanese people and Government at this moment.”

Training sessions are expected to continue twice daily today through Friday with one session set for Saturday. The team is expected to train at the Stadium tomorrow.