As the clock ticks down to the decisive match of the Concacaf World Cup qualifiers, all eyes are on Steve McClaren and the Jamaican national team. Appointed as head coach in August 2024, McClaren’s primary mission was to secure Jamaica’s spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Tonight, at 8:00 pm at the National Stadium, the Reggae Boyz face Curacao in a high-stakes encounter where only a victory will guarantee their qualification. Jamaica currently sits second in Group B with 10 points, trailing unbeaten Curacao by a single point.
分类： sports
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A coach is a team’s first psychologist
The decision by Cricket West Indies (CWI) to introduce a mental skills and performance coach for the senior men’s cricket team has sparked considerable debate. Critics argue that cricket, inherently a psychological game, relies on players’ temperament, passion, and enthusiasm, which are best nurtured by a coach with deep cricketing experience. The move was recommended by CWI’s Cricket Strategy and Officiating Committee, established in August following the team’s dismal performance against Australia, where they were bowled out for just 27 runs in Kingston. The committee includes cricket legends Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara, the latter being the first West Indies captain to lose all five Test matches in a single series during the 1998/99 tour of South Africa. Critics question the assumption that top international cricketers automatically make effective coaches, citing the challenges of transitioning from playing to coaching. While former players like Sir Vivian Richards have struggled in coaching roles, they can still offer valuable mentorship. CWI’s Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, defends the decision, emphasizing the importance of mindset and composure at the elite level. However, skeptics argue that a single, well-qualified coach should suffice, questioning the need for additional handlers and the associated costs. The effectiveness of this strategy remains to be seen, as the team’s performance under the current administration continues to be scrutinized.
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CLAIMS MADE ON SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2025
The racing world witnessed a series of high-profile horse claims across multiple races, with trainers making strategic moves to strengthen their stables. In Race One, trainer Michael Thomas secured horse #3, XY Soul, for owner Errol Dixon from trainer Donovan Russell in a $200,000 deal. Race Two saw trainer Winston McIntosh claim horse #4, Little Grovy Thing, for himself from Norman Smith for $350,000, while Byron Davis acquired horse #9, Jon P, from Donovan Plummer for the same amount. Race Six was marked by even more significant transactions, with Fernando Geddes claiming horse #1, Pappie Don, from Gregg Fennell for $700,000. Adrian Prince secured horse #3, Lucy In The Sky, from Patrick Taylor for the same price, and Joseph Thomas claimed horse #5, She’s MyHedgefund, for Beresford Broadbell from Gresford Smith in another $700,000 deal. These high-stakes claims highlight the competitive nature of the sport and the strategic investments trainers are making to gain an edge.
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Yorke: I take full responsibilty for the team
Trinidad and Tobago’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were extinguished after a 1-1 draw with Jamaica at the Hasely Crawford Stadium on November 13. Head coach Dwight Yorke, who took charge in November 2024 with the ambitious goal of leading the team to the World Cup, has shouldered full responsibility for the outcome. Despite the disappointment, Yorke expressed pride in his players’ efforts and the progress made during his tenure. He acknowledged that the team’s inability to secure more victories, particularly in crucial matches, ultimately cost them a spot in the tournament. Yorke emphasized his commitment to self-reflection and improvement, stating, ‘I always look at myself first rather than pointing fingers at anyone else.’ The former Manchester United star also highlighted the emergence of a new generation of players, many of whom were recruited from abroad and have quickly integrated into the squad. As Trinidad and Tobago prepares to face Bermuda in a match for pride on November 18, Yorke remains focused on maintaining high standards and motivating his team. He assured fans that the squad is ready to compete, despite the recent setback. The match against Bermuda will serve as an opportunity for the team to showcase their resilience and determination as they look ahead to future campaigns.
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Formalist shines in debut victory
In a stunning debut, Formalist, a three-year-old chestnut colt, claimed a decisive victory in the $1.05-million Maiden Condition Race at Caymanas Park on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Under the guidance of trainer Jason DaCosta and jockey Robert Halledeen, Formalist showcased exceptional speed and strategy, leading the race from start to finish. He crossed the finish line an impressive 6 ¼ lengths ahead of his competitors, completing the 5-furlong (1,000m) straight in a swift 1:00.0 (24.2 x 47.1).
Formalist, sired by Bold Conquest and out of Miss Formality, demonstrated remarkable pacing and acceleration. After a strong start, he maintained his position with the pack before making a decisive move past the dummy rails. From there, he surged ahead, leaving rivals Nebuchadnezzar and Feeling Free to secure second and third places, respectively. This commanding performance marks Formalist as a rising star in the racing world, with a bright future ahead.
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Grenada’s 4-1 victory over United States Virgin Islands
The Grenada Senior Men’s National Team (SMNT) concluded their 2025 international campaign with a resounding 4–1 victory over the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium last Friday. This triumph marks Grenada’s sixth consecutive international win, further solidifying their unbeaten streak and enhancing their prospects for a higher FIFA World Ranking. The team had already climbed nine places to 165th in the October rankings, and this latest performance positions them favorably for further advancement. Grenada’s dominance was evident from the outset, with Parish Muirhead opening the scoring in the 11th minute. Team captain Regan Charles-Cook delivered a clinical brace in the 27th and 34th minutes, giving Grenada a commanding 3–0 lead at halftime. Zade Douglas extended the lead in the 56th minute, while USVI’s Yannick Libra managed a consolation goal in the 74th minute. Despite this, Grenada maintained control until the final whistle. Grenada Football Association (GFA) President Marlon Glean praised the team’s progress, highlighting the strategic investments in technical development, international exposure, and youth integration. He emphasized that the rise in FIFA rankings reflects the collective efforts of players, staff, and the broader football community. The GFA views these victories as pivotal momentum toward long-term goals of national team development, increased competitiveness, and player pathways supported by robust domestic programs and international partnerships. The association also expressed gratitude to fans, partners, and sponsors for their unwavering support throughout the year.
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West Indies show grit, but Kiwis clinch ODI opener
In a nail-biting encounter on November 15, the West Indies narrowly missed victory against New Zealand, succumbing to a seven-run defeat in the first of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) held in Christchurch. The match marked the international debut of Shamar Springer, adding a fresh dynamic to the Windies’ lineup. Despite a valiant effort, the Caribbean side couldn’t overcome the BlackCaps’ resilience, setting the stage for an intense series. West Indian captain Shai Hope won the toss and opted to bowl, capitalizing on favorable conditions. Matthew Forde made an immediate impact, dismissing Rachin Ravindra and Will Young in consecutive deliveries. However, New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell stole the spotlight with a masterful century, scoring 119 runs and anchoring his team’s innings. Jayden Seales emerged as a key figure for the Windies, claiming three wickets for 41 runs and restricting the hosts to under 300. The West Indies’ chase began cautiously, with early wickets forcing a defensive approach. Sherfane Rutherford’s return to form, with a solid 55 runs, provided hope, while Romario Shepherd’s explosive 38 off 24 deliveries nearly turned the tide. Yet, the BlackCaps held their nerve in the final over, securing a narrow victory. The Windies now face a must-win situation in the second ODI on November 18 to keep the series alive.
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Anse La Raye Crowned Tier 2 Champions in Dominant Final
Anse La Raye emerged victorious in the Saint Lucia Semi-Professional Super League (Tier 2) after a commanding 3-0 win over Vieux Fort North in the final. The match, held at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet on November 15, showcased Anse La Raye’s dominance throughout the tournament. Having topped the league stage with an impressive goal difference of 16, they secured their spot in the final by defeating Laborie 1-0 in the semifinals. Vieux Fort North, who finished third in their group, earned their place in the championship match by overcoming the Saint Lucia National Under-20 team. The game, initially scheduled for November 8 at the Soufriere Mini Stadium, was postponed due to adverse weather conditions. Anse La Raye took an early lead in the 15th minute with a stunning strike from Hanson Frederick outside the box. The second half saw Sagat Ferdinand extend their lead with a remarkable goal in the 64th minute, followed by a penalty from captain Nangee Philip, sealing their triumph. A red card for Vieux Fort North’s Steve Darcheville in the 86th minute compounded their struggles. Post-match, a jubilant Philip expressed his elation, dedicating the victory to his home village and thanking the loyal supporters for their unwavering encouragement. The team’s promotion to the Premier League marks a significant milestone in their journey.
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Samuel Anchors VFCSS to nail-biting Schools Netball Win
In a thrilling showdown at the Beausejour Gymnasium, Vieux Fort Comprehensive Secondary School (VFCSS) clinched a narrow 31–30 victory over Micoud Secondary in the Under-19 Schools’ Netball Tournament final. The match, marked by intense competition and strategic brilliance, was ultimately decided by the defensive prowess of Hayla Samuel, who was named both MVP and best defender of the final. Samuel, alongside captain Mya King, formed an impenetrable backline that stifled Micoud’s shooters, despite a late surge from the East Coast team. VFCSS led 7–5 after the first quarter and 13–11 at halftime, but it was in the third quarter that they gained significant momentum, stretching their lead to 24–19. Micoud fought back valiantly in the final period, outscoring VFCSS 11–7, but fell just one goal short of tying the game. Deriscia Mitchell and Neriah Charlery were instrumental for VFCSS, combining for 11 goals on 13 attempts in the third quarter. Mitchell finished with 22 goals from 26 attempts, while Charlery added 9 from 14. For Micoud, Mekeige Joseph and Clarise Nervais contributed 18/29 and 12/20 goals, respectively, under relentless defensive pressure. Charlery, aged just 13, was named best attacking player of the tournament, adding to VFCSS’s haul of three individual awards. Micoud’s Kiehanna St Juste earned best centre court honours, while Soufriere’s Kelly Monlouis claimed the most accurate shooter award. Samuel, a dual-sport athlete who also represents Saint Lucia in football, was one of four players in the final who had competed at the Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament earlier this year.
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Antigua Triumphs Over Grenada in the U23 Men’s Championship
On the fourth day of the ECVA U23 Men’s Championship, Antigua delivered a commanding performance, securing a decisive 3-0 victory over Grenada with set scores of 25-23, 25-19, and 27-25. This triumph on home soil solidified Antigua’s position as a formidable contender for the championship title. The match was a testament to Antigua’s strategic prowess and cohesive teamwork, as they edged out Grenada in attack points (33 to 32) and dominated the service game with 6 aces compared to Grenada’s 2. Despite their success, both teams struggled with unforced errors, with Antigua conceding 32 points and Grenada committing 26. George Freeland emerged as a standout player for Antigua, contributing 11 points, while Immanuel Asafar Donovan added 9 crucial points to the win. Grenada’s Kibose Hamilton fought valiantly, scoring 12 points in a commendable effort. Grenada’s Coach Javin Noel acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, stating, ‘Critical errors and missed opportunities cost us the match, but we remain optimistic about securing a podium finish.’ The championship’s excitement continues with upcoming matches, including Saint Lucia vs. Dominica, Grenada vs. Anguilla, and Antigua vs. St. Vincent.