Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Herbert Morrison win six straight in ISSA Under-16 basketball

    Herbert Morrison win six straight in ISSA Under-16 basketball

    In a commanding display of athletic prowess, Herbert Morrison Technical High School extended its winning streak in the ISSA Rural Area Under-16 Zone B basketball competition. The team secured its sixth consecutive victory with a resounding 89-25 triumph over York Castle High in a return round match held at Buckfield Oval in St Ann on Thursday.

    The junior squad’s victory was spearheaded by a formidable offensive duo. Michael Johnson delivered an impressive 22-point performance, closely supported by Rafael Stephenson who contributed 20 points to their team’s total. Despite an initial challenge from their opponents, Herbert Morrison quickly established dominance and maintained control throughout the game. For York Castle, Marcodean Frater emerged as the leading scorer with 14 points.

    In parallel Under-19 division action, Herbert Morrison maintained their undefeated record with a decisive 65-10 victory against Ocho Rios High. However, York Castle demonstrated resilience by securing a win against Ocho Rios in the same age category, while also prevailing over Holland High with a convincing 73-37 scoreline.

    The basketball action continued with Ryan Jurdine leading Herbert Morrison’s Under-16 team to a remarkable shutout performance against Ocho Rios during the second half of their encounter. The team established an overwhelming 21-1 advantage in the opening quarter and expanded their lead to 33-10 by halftime before completely dominating the final two quarters with a 32-0 scoring run.

    In regional derby action, Ocho Rios claimed a 53-38 victory against York Castle in the St Ann matchup. Christian Andorn delivered a game-high 17 points for York Castle, while Matthew Smith led Ocho Rios with 16 points.

    Meanwhile, in Zone A Under-16 competition, Knox College secured a 30-23 victory against Old Harbour High with Javante Currie contributing 12 points to the winning effort.

  • Ocho Rios advance to Ben Francis Cup quarter-finals

    Ocho Rios advance to Ben Francis Cup quarter-finals

    DRAX HALL, St Ann — In a tightly contested Friday match, Ocho Rios High School clinched a decisive 1-0 victory against Old Harbour High, securing their position as the second qualifier for the ISSA Ben Francis Cup quarter-finals. The critical goal was delivered by Kaneil Brown during the latter stages of the game, ensuring his team’s advancement to the next round scheduled for Tuesday, December 16.

    This achievement places Ocho Rios High alongside Manchester High, which dominated William Knibb Memorial with an overwhelming 5-0 triumph the previous day. Additionally, Mannings School and Garvey Maceo High have automatically progressed to the quarter-finals due to the withdrawal of their scheduled opponents, Maggotty High and Maldon High, respectively.

    The remaining four slots in the tournament will be determined following Saturday’s concluding matches in the daCosta Cup competition. Teams that do not advance to the daCosta Cup semi-finals—two from each group—will earn entry into the Ben Francis Cup bracket.

    Notably, McGrath High, who claimed the Ben Francis Cup title two years prior, is anticipated to join the contenders after experiencing defeats in their initial two quarter-final games against Cornwall College and Glenmuir High in Group B.

  • Jariel Arthur brace helps ‘Cale’ down AC PoS in the TTPFL

    Jariel Arthur brace helps ‘Cale’ down AC PoS in the TTPFL

    In a thrilling TT Premier Football League encounter on December 10, Caledonia AIA delivered a stunning performance to defeat AC Port of Spain 3-2 at St James Police Barracks. The victory propelled Caledonia from ninth to seventh position in the 12-team standings, while AC Port of Spain missed a crucial opportunity to advance to fourth place.

    The match showcased Caledonia’s explosive counter-attacking strategy, with Tobago forward Jariel Arthur emerging as the standout performer. Arthur opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a precise right-footed finish after connecting with Malachi Celestine’s setup during a rapid transition. Despite AC Port of Spain’s equalizer through defender Mario Williams’ header in the 16th minute, Arthur restored Caledonia’s advantage with a spectacular right-footed volley in the 32nd minute.

    AC Port of Spain fought back valiantly, with striker Shackiel Henry netting his fifth season goal just before the hour mark to level the score at 2-2. However, Celestine secured the victory for Caledonia in the 67th minute with a clinical finish past veteran goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, completing a remarkable attacking combination that began with Arthur’s through pass.

    In the subsequent match of the double-header, MIC Central FC Reboot and Terminix La Horquetta Rangers played to a goalless draw. Central FC dominated proceedings but failed to convert numerous opportunities, including a point-blank miss by Jameel Neptune in stoppage time. Rangers goalkeeper Jadel Poon-Lewis delivered an exceptional performance with multiple crucial saves.

    The league action continues on December 12 at Phase 2 La Horquetta Recreation Grounds, featuring defending champions Defence Force against second-placed Prisons FC, followed by Rangers versus San Juan Jabloteh. The current standings show Police FC and Prisons FC tied at 16 points atop the table, while Eagles FC remains at the bottom with just one point from six matches.

  • NLCL Nations Cup kicks off with youth football festival

    NLCL Nations Cup kicks off with youth football festival

    The Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella will transform into a hub of youthful athleticism from December 19-21 as it hosts the rebranded NLCL Nations Cup International Holiday Fun Festival. Formerly known as the Community Cup, the tournament has been revitalized by Next Level Consulting Limited (NLCL) to feature four competitive age brackets: Under-9, Under-11, Under-13, and Under-15 divisions.

    The competition will showcase emerging football talent from clubs across Trinidad, with international representation from Northern Stars United of St. Lucia, marking the event’s growing regional appeal. The official launch on December 11 generated significant excitement among club representatives and young athletes eager to conclude their year with competitive matches.

    Tournament organizers Brian Jordan, chairman of the Next Level Foundation, and NLCL chairperson Janine Jordan emphasized the dual nature of the event, highlighting both its competitive structure and its primary focus on enjoyment and community engagement for players and families alike.

    The launch event featured inspirational addresses from Trinidad and Tobago national team player Andre Raymond and renowned sports broadcaster Gyasi Merrique. Raymond shared his personal football journey, stressing the transformative impact of supplemental training beyond team practices. “Doing additional work with my father fundamentally improved my skills,” Raymond revealed. “My schoolmates noticed dramatic improvement when I returned after form one – evidence that individual dedication produces tangible results.”

    Merrique offered alternative perspectives on sports involvement, encouraging attendees to remain alert to opportunities beyond traditional athletic paths. Drawing from his own transition from player to sports journalist, Merrique advised: “Keep your head on a swivel searching for opportunities when one door closes. Always be ready and alert to avoid missing chances that could positively impact your life.”

    The tournament’s successful organization was credited to numerous sponsors including NLCL, Next Level Foundation, Bermudez (Dixee), Ramsingh’s Sports World, Oasis Water, TECU Credit Union, Frutopia, hydration partner Gatorade, and several local businesses and individual contributors. Chairperson Jordan articulated the event’s broader mission: “Our objective through NLCL is saving our youth through football. If we can guide even one individual toward success, we have fulfilled our purpose.”

  • Coach Angus Eve: ‘Naps’ players were selfless during football season

    Coach Angus Eve: ‘Naps’ players were selfless during football season

    Naparima College has etched its name in Trinidad and Tobago football history by capturing an unprecedented triple crown of Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) titles, culminating in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Signal Hill Secondary in the Coca-Cola National Intercol final on December 10.

    Under the strategic guidance of coach Angus Eve, the team completed a remarkable clean sweep of the 2025 season by adding the national title to their premiership and south zone Intercol trophies. The decisive moment came in the 22nd minute when Signal Hill goalkeeper Kaleb Romeo’s uncharacteristic error resulted in an own goal that ultimately separated the sides at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva.

    Eve, a former national team standout who returned to Naparima’s dugout at the season’s commencement, attributed the success to collective discipline and tactical execution. “They didn’t care what starting lineup we did, or what players we put in, they were all consistent throughout the season,” Eve remarked during post-match celebrations. “Sticking to the game plan was key. We wanted to play good and attractive football for the fans.”

    The final tested Naparima’s resilience as Signal Hill employed a defensive approach that frustrated the home side for large periods. Despite creating numerous opportunities, Naparima struggled to break through until Romeo’s misfortune. The team’s defensive unit, anchored by goalkeeper Mikhail Clement, maintained composure during Signal Hill’s late surge to preserve the narrow advantage.

    This triumph marks Naparima’s fourth triple-crown achievement, having previously accomplished the feat in 1999, 2015, and 2018—the latter two under Eve’s leadership. The coach emphasized that beyond the silverware, the victory represents the culmination of a philosophy centered on player development and institutional loyalty.

    Midfielder Jacob O’Reilly earned man-of-the-match honors for his instrumental role in linking defense and attack, embodying the team’s work ethic and tactical understanding. The post-match celebrations saw players join the school band in jubilation, waving flags and lifting the National Intercol trophy—a fitting conclusion to a season defined by vision and unwavering dedication.

  • Brendan Boodoo hits ton, but Strikers fall to Warriors in TTCB Under-23 Cup

    Brendan Boodoo hits ton, but Strikers fall to Warriors in TTCB Under-23 Cup

    In a dramatic TTCB Under-23 Cup semi-final clash at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva on December 10, Cocrico Warriors secured a hard-fought 14-run victory against Soca Strikers Under-19s in a high-scoring encounter that showcased exceptional individual performances despite the rainy conditions.

    The Warriors, sent to bat first, posted an imposing total of 298 runs in 45.2 overs, setting a challenging target for their youthful opponents. The innings featured substantial contributions from multiple batsmen, with Khaleem Mohammed’s explosive 77 from just 58 deliveries providing early momentum. He was well supported by Olando James (63 off 65) and wicket-keeper Gerard Chin, who scored a steady 54 from 65 balls.

    West Indies Under-19 allrounder Brendan Boodoo emerged as the standout performer for the Strikers, delivering an exceptional all-round display. The talented youngster claimed three crucial wickets for 71 runs during his ten-over spell, including key breakthroughs that temporarily halted the Warriors’ scoring momentum. Aarion Mohammed complemented these efforts with impressive death bowling figures of 3/43.

    During the chase, the Strikers faced immediate adversity when opening batsman Levi Ghany was dismissed by a perfect yorker from Joshua James on the very first ball of the innings. Captain Saleem Khan followed shortly after, leaving the team struggling at 12/2.

    Boodoo then orchestrated a remarkable recovery, crafting a magnificent century that kept his team’s hopes alive. His 112-run masterpiece from 101 deliveries featured powerful stroke play and intelligent running between wickets. He found able partners in Aadi Ramsaran (59 off 82) and Christian Lall (59 off 52), building partnerships of 114 and 102 runs respectively that brought the Strikers within reach of victory.

    The match reached its critical juncture when Boodoo was finally dismissed in the 40th over with the score at 239/4, requiring 60 runs from the remaining 63 deliveries. Leg-spinner Aneal Rooplal (3/52) then triggered a dramatic collapse, taking two quick wickets in consecutive overs. Joshua James sealed the victory with a devastating double-wicket maiden in the 45th over, finishing with impressive figures of 4/73.

    The Warriors will now advance to face Steelpan Titans in the tournament final scheduled for December 13 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba.

  • Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia swings to perfect 10 on uneven bars at Carifta Gymnastics

    Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia swings to perfect 10 on uneven bars at Carifta Gymnastics

    Trinidad and Tobago delivered an extraordinary performance at the 2025 Carifta Artistic Gymnastics Championships, held December 4-5 at the National Cycling Velodrome in Couva. The host nation’s gymnasts captured an astonishing 168 medals (85 gold, 57 silver, 26 bronze), decisively outperforming competitors from Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, and Jamaica to retain their overall championship title.

    The competition’s most historic moment came when Trinidad and Tobago’s Emma Garcia achieved perfection on the uneven bars, earning the only perfect 10.000 score awarded throughout the entire championships. Her flawless execution generated widespread celebration among athletes, officials, and spectators, creating one of the most memorable highlights of the two-day event.

    Featuring 195 female gymnasts aged 7-19, the championships showcased routines across multiple competitive tiers: USA Gymnastics (USAG) developmental programs levels 1-10, Pan American Gymnastics Union (PAGU) levels 1-3, and FIG junior and senior elite divisions.

    Trinidad and Tobago established immediate dominance by sweeping all-around titles across nearly every level. In early USAG divisions, Reyelle Joseph (level 1, 7-8), Skylar Malchan (level 2, 7-8), and Andaya Singh (level 2, 9-10) claimed victories. The success continued with Ricquel Marcellin (level 3, 7-9) and Larisah Nevins (level 3, 10-12).

    Middle levels saw Coniyah Jones (level 5, 7-11), Isabella Khan (level 5, 12-15), and Kaydence Fortune (level 6, 8-12) continue the gold medal streak. Higher levels featured Gabriella Christopher (level 8, 8-13), Gabrielle Webb (level 8, 14-18), Shanika Joseph (level 9, 8-13), and Sidney Charles (level 10, 14+), who reinforced her status as one of Trinidad and Tobago’s leading senior athletes.

    PAGU levels brought additional success with Zariah Gittens-Dopwell (level 1) and Yandy Stafford (level 2) capturing all-around titles. Jamaica’s Mariah Gordon (PAGU level 2) and Zuri Matandara Clark (FIG junior elite) were among the few non-TT champions, with Sidney Charles adding the FIG senior elite crown to her accomplishments.

    The event, organized by the TT Gymnastics Federation under regional Carifta coordinator Steve Butcher, received significant support from platinum sponsor Capital Markets Elite Group. This backing enabled organizers to secure international FIG and USAG-certified judges from Panama, Colombia, Canada, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica, ensuring world-class officiating throughout the championships.

  • SHE’S BACK!

    SHE’S BACK!

    Jamaican netball sensation Vangelee Williams has dramatically ended her five-year retirement to rejoin the national team, bringing veteran leadership to the Sunshine Girls ahead of their crucial Vitality Series clash against England. The 33-year-old defensive specialist, who previously represented Jamaica in two World Cups and two Commonwealth Games, returns to international competition with renewed passion and determination.

    The upcoming series against England has been significantly altered due to Hurricane Melissa, which forced cancellation of the Jamaican leg scheduled for December 6-7 at the National Indoor Sports Centre. The competition will now consist solely of two matches at London’s Copper Box Arena on December 13-14. This marks a reversal from last year’s series, which Jamaica won 2-1 with one tied match.

    Williams expressed profound satisfaction with her return, stating: ‘I feel really happy to be back. I anticipated this moment very much since I have been training. It really feels good and has made me realize that I actually missed the sport at this level.’ Despite acknowledging that her fitness requires further development, Williams emphasized steady progress since rejoining the senior squad in September.

    The veteran athlete had completely mentally disengaged from elite netball after her 2020 retirement, believing her career was finished. Her perspective has transformed dramatically, with Williams now declaring: ‘I am back and I am better.’ While uncertain about participating in another World Cup, she has set her sights on competing in the next Commonwealth Games.

    Head coach Sasher-Gaye Henry-Wright welcomed Williams’ return as a strategic necessity, explaining: ‘We were out of all of our defensive players. All other defensive players are younger players who have not yet played a lot at this level, so we definitely wanted to bring back some experience.’ The coaching staff monitored Williams’ performance in league matches before inviting her back to the national setup.

    Williams recently participated in the team’s preparatory match against an All-Star Mixed team, where Jamaica suffered a 40-52 defeat. Addressing concerns about defensive stability, Williams remained confident: ‘I don’t think the defence is shaky. There are definitely some levels of inexperience but each girl on the defensive team is a workhorse. We provide interceptions and deflections, and we definitely give our best.’

    The returning star emphasized the team’s collective hunger to perform despite missing key players Shamera Sterling-Humphrey, Latanya Wilson, and Kadie-Ann Dehany. Williams’ comeback adds crucial tournament experience and defensive prowess to a squad blending youth and experience as they prepare to face England’s netball team.

  • Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Marcel Gayle aims to lead St George’s College revival after Bell’s resignation

    Following two decades as an assistant coach at St George’s College, Marcel Gayle finds himself positioned as the leading candidate to spearhead the revival of the institution’s football program. This development comes in the wake of the sudden resignation of legendary coach Neville ‘Bertis’ Bell, who departed after a disappointing season that saw the ‘Light Blues’ eliminated in the Manning Cup round of 16.

    Gayle, who currently serves as head coach of Waterhouse FC, served as Bell’s deputy during the school’s most successful era, which included five Manning Cup victories and 15 total titles across various competitions. Expressing both surprise and determination, Gayle acknowledged the challenge ahead while emphasizing his deep understanding of the school’s culture and systems.

    ‘Having been there for over twenty years, I comprehend the institution’s framework intimately,’ Gayle stated. ‘If selected for this role, I will commit fully to restoring our competitive standing while maintaining our core values.’

    The transition won’t be straightforward. Gayle’s initial match as interim coach resulted in a 2-4 Walker Cup defeat to Mona High, underscoring the magnitude of the rebuilding task. St George’s College, historically Jamaica’s second-most successful school with 21 Manning Cup titles, has experienced a notable decline, having last won the prestigious competition in 2012.

    Gayle outlined a philosophy extending beyond mere trophy acquisition, emphasizing holistic development: ‘Our mission transcends football victories. We’re shaping young minds and building future leaders for Jamaica. These students are scholars first, athletes second—we’re cultivating better human beings who will contribute positively to our nation’s future.’

    The appointment decision comes at a critical juncture for the North Street institution as it seeks to reclaim its status among Jamaica’s football elite.

  • ‘For our coach’: Leighton and Mona High dedicate Walker Cup performance to ailing Butler

    ‘For our coach’: Leighton and Mona High dedicate Walker Cup performance to ailing Butler

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mona High School’s football team is playing with profound purpose as they advance through the postseason, dedicating their campaign to hospitalized coach and program architect Craig Butler. Leading their charge is phenomenal striker Sean Leighton, whose 26 goals make him the Manning Cup’s top scorer.

    The emotional motivation was palpable during their recent Walker Cup victory. Leighton netted a crucial brace in a 4-2 triumph over St. George’s College, demonstrating that the team’s resolve extends beyond personal accolades. In post-match comments, Leighton emphasized that their primary focus is to secure another trophy to honor Butler, the founder of Phoenix Academy and head of Mona’s football program, who is currently undergoing surgery.

    “Our motivation is clear—we must stay focused and disciplined for our coach in the hospital,” stated Leighton, who also trains at Butler’s Phoenix Academy. “We’re playing to motivate him and support him through his procedure. This means everything to him.”

    Butler’s legacy is already historic. In 2023, he guided Mona High to their inaugural Manning Cup title, followed by their first-ever Walker Cup championship in 2024. Now, after a dominant 3-0 round of 16 victory over St. George’s College—a match in which Leighton was prominently featured—the team has advanced to the quarterfinals with strong hopes of repeating their Walker Cup success.

    Leighton points to their strong second-half performance as evidence of their championship mentality. While proud of his individual achievement, he insists the collective mission outweighs personal glory. “Scoring 26 goals is good, but it was never the main focus,” he explained. “Now we are here, we just have to lock in and bring this trophy home.”