Millington’s introduction was strategic – Slingerz Head Coach Wilson Calls on corporate Guyana to partner with clubs

Jun 30, 2016 Sports

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By Franklin Wilson
Whilst basking in the excitement of victory as the inaugural GFF Stag Elite League (SEL) champions of Guyana following a hard fought 1-0 win over Alpha United, an emotional Joseph ‘Bill’ Wilson, Head Coach of Slingerz FC informed that his trump card, Devon ‘The Tormentor’ Millington’s introduction in the second half was strategic.
The first 45 minutes of the showdown of all showdowns failed to produce any goals and many felt that it was going to be a repeat of the FINALE final between the two sides one week earlier.
But Coach Wilson had other ideas; he introduced his trump card in the 58th minute and 15 minutes later Millington’s dagger like goal not only separated the two teams but ensured victory for the West Demerara based team which not only became the inaugural winners the GFF SEL but also became the first team from the West Demerara to win a major national football championship.
When Kaieteur Sport spoke with Wilson after the win, tears of joy was still being wiped away as it flowed down his cheeks.
“Its emotional because I thought we should have finished it in the FINALE, we missed a lot of opportunities and this evening we missed many too but I always had the confidence, that’s why I held back Millington deliberately to bring him on in the second half, it was a tactical change and move because I knew he would have made a difference in the game and indeed, he did.”
Wilson complimented his players for the tremendous efforts they made during the entire league which was played in two phases, GENESIS and FINALE, Slingerz ended at the top of the standings in both phases.
Based on the rules of the league which was introduced under the tenure of former Technical Director Claude Bolton who has since resigned, the clubs had agreed that the top four clubs emerging from the league would face off in a knock-out format to determine the overall winner thus the champion of champions match since Slingerz won the top four clash after the GENESIS with Alpha taking the winner’s pie after the FINALE.
While Wilson noted that Slingerz’ triumph was deserved he felt it was unfortunate for Alpha because as a team, they also worked hard.
“I must say kudos to them {Alpha}, they played well this evening but the better team won this evening.”
After winning the last Kashif and Shanghai knock-out competition two years ago, Wilson had stated that the club can only get better and this has been borne out in their league success.
“I am confident that we still have a lot of ground to cover and a lot of work to do to go into the CFU but I think with discipline and few adjustments on our roster, I think we will give a good account of ourselves at the CFU.”
Wilson, a Teacher by profession who practices his trade at the North Georgetown Secondary School, Woolford Avenue, is of the view that when he joined Slingerz, they had needed experience in the Technical department, and that is what he brought to the table.
“It’s always fortunate as a Coach when you have players that can buy into your philosophy and can adhere to your principles, it can only spell success for that team and coach. I thought that the players at this club bought into my philosophy, understood what we are and where we want to go and I think this evening it all manifested.”
Corporate support needed
Wilson posited that it is never an easy task to run a club at this level with the aim of fully professionalizing it. He shared his understanding that it is a lot of investment and financial strain on club owner Javid Ali whom he also complimented for his vision in shaping the entity whilst crossing the many hurdles that have come their way.
“I’m hoping that sponsors come on board to assist with this programme. It’s a very serious and important programme for Guyana’s football. Most of the players are senior national team players and the club has done so much for them, not only giving them a salary but helping to develop them into becoming better players to represent Guyana.
Sometimes it has become so much of a burden to Mr Ali; I know that in my discussions with him. So I’m appealing to corporate Guyana to come on board and support this successful programme. Our sportsmen need the kind of support not only from individuals but from companies and groups. I know football is in dire straits in this country in terms of a major financial injection that is sustained.”
Kudos was extended by Wilson to Ansa McAl under their Stag brand for their investment in the SEL as well as COURTS Guyana Inc., E-Networks and Knight Rider Bus Service for stepping up and showing what can be achieved with a collective effort.

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