By Stephan Sookram
TWENTY-four hours before Guyana’s Golden Jaguars go up against a Canadian Olympic football team, the locals were afforded the chance to “size up” their opposition.The Jaguars and their Canadian opponents along with management as well as Guyana Football Federation (GFF) officials and the Government of Guyana were guests of the Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Pierre Giroux’s residence during a mid-afternoon reception.
The locals had a chance to meet their competition ahead of today’s encounter during yesterday’s meet and greet with the host opting to give a few remarks on a lighter note before the whistle goes.
He commended Canadian hall of Famer and Guyanese-born Alex Bunbury for his moves in this regard, as it is his initiative that brought the match to fruition.
According to the Canadian diplomat, Bunbury approached him at the High Commission, putting forth his “dream” of having the two teams, Guyana and Canada, playing an international friendly.
“Today, that dream has become reality and so we are very happy to see you all here; we hope that both teams will be playing well tomorrow,” Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana Pierre Giroux,said.
Director of Sport Christopher Jones was also on hand, saying, “Noting that we are celebrating Guyana’s 50th anniversary and of course the relationship that Canada and Guyana share, indeed, this is the most fitting tribute.
“In honour of the Golden Jubliee, it was a desire of President David Granger to have an international friendly football match,” continued Jones.
In the absence of GFF President Wayne Forde, acting president Brigadier (Retired). Bruce Lovell contended that the GFF is happy to be the facilitating body for the games, adding that since their time in office, the new GFF executive has been trying to get more exposure for the national teams.
He added: “We have begun to see that strategy bearing fruit, because from the start of the year to now, we have jumped 32 places in FIFA’s rankings.”
In closing, he thanked the Canadians and wished them the best of luck.