Government hosts 'Lady Jags' at Reception

Government hosts ‘Lady Jags’ at Reception

Jul 06, 2010 Sports

MINISTERS ALI & PERSAUD ELATED WITH GOLD CUP QUALIFICATION

By Franklin Wilson

Following their history making efforts becoming the first Guyanese Football team (male & female) to ever qualify for the CONCACAF Gold Cup the Government of Guyana hosted the triumphant ‘Lady Jags’ at a Dinner/Reception on Saturday night at the Pegasus Hotel.
Ministers of Agriculture Robert Persaud and Minister of Housing & Water Irfan Ali represented the Government at the Reception which was held to say thanks to the ‘Lady Jags’ for making Guyana proud.
Minister Ali informed the Jags that His Excellency President Bharrat Jagdeo, who was attending the CARICOM Heads of Government Meeting in Jamaica, has been following very closely their progress and was elated to learn that Guyana had qualified for the Gold Cup, and the ‘Lady Jags’ was the first team to do so.
Minister Ali told the ladies that their emphatic win against the Cubans 3-1 in the return game after losing 0-1 in Cuba the week before has re-energised football in Guyana.
“I think you have shown all that there’s a way to success by persevering and we as a government will continue supporting you. I want to let you know that we know you will qualify for the World Cup.”
Minister Persaud in his remarks told the team that whenever they play, it brings a buzz to the entire nation and this time it was no different. “I want to restate from our government that we have and will continue to be very supportive.
I want to thank also all those persons, the GFF and business who have been doing their bit in Guyana which have added to your success.”
“Thank you very much from the bottom of the hearts of all Guyanese, thank you very much for your commitment and for making us proud. Congratulations and good luck for even greater success in the future.”
Responding on behalf of the team was Programme Director of the Woman’s programme Colin Baker who thanked the Government and the Ministers for recognizing the team and for their continued support.
Goalkeeper Tenyka Francique was singled out by Minister Ali for saving a crucial penalty in the second half which effectively made it easier for Guyana path to the Gold Cup. Also present Saturday’s function was President of the Guyana Football Federation Colin Klass along with fellow Executive members.