TRINIDAD & Tobago’s 2nd string National U-20 footballers yesterday ended a one-week training camp here in Guyana as part of preparations for next month’s CFU finals to be played in Curacao.The Brian Williams-coached young ‘Soca Warriors’ left the country this morning satisfied with the work done while in Guyana, inclusive of a win and a loss in two practice matches.
Last Sunday’s encounter against a combined Elite League selection at the Leonora Stadium resulted in a 1-0 loss that coach Williams is not too overly perturbed over since eight overseas-based players (the nucleus of the team) were unavailable for the trip.
National midfielder Vurlon Mills struck the decisive strike early in the game played at the Leonora Stadium when his attempted header struck his shoulder for the game’s only goal.
Thereafter it was hard work, in defence, at both ends of the pitch, as coach Williams and his opposite Jamal Shabazz offered playing time to most of the players.
According to Guyana’s head coach Jamal Shabazz the challenge against the T&T U-20s was perfect for his charges as they begin preparations for 3rd action in the CFU’s Senior Men’s Championship.
Shabazz added that a 26-man squad of local-based players will continue to train thrice weekly as a national unit while it is hoped that more match-readiness will be realised by players from Club training.
It is still uncertain as to who from the pool of overseas-based players will be available for the October 8 fixture against Suriname in Paramaribo and three days later versus the ‘Reggae Boyz’ at a venue still to be determined.
Compatriot Williams in an overview of the training camp here in Guyana stated that staff of the young Trinbagonians is satisfied with what was achieved and looks forward to another camp away from home prior to the CFU finals.
Williams disclosed that a two-week camp, inclusive of practice games, is set for Panama after which the unit will travel to Curacao for their opening game on October 22.