分类: sports

  • Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    Eve proud of Naps’ title: I came to make a statement

    In a thrilling conclusion to the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premiership division season, Naparima College captured their sixth league title under the current format with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Signal Hill Secondary on November 27th. The championship marks a triumphant return for head coach Angus Eve, who previously guided the southern school to back-to-back titles in 2014 and 2015 before his stint with Trinidad and Tobago’s national teams.

    The title race came down to the final matchday with three teams separated by just three points. Naparima’s victory at Lewis Street in San Fernando propelled them to 37 points, narrowly edging out southern rivals St Benedict’s College (36 points) and Signal Hill Secondary (34 points). The Tobago-based Signal Hill squad saw their championship hopes dashed despite a late consolation goal from Raevion Marshall via an 83rd-minute penalty.

    Eve, who concurrently coaches TT Premier Football League side Club Sando, acknowledged the challenges of returning to school football after his time with national teams. ‘There were a lot of adjustments for me,’ Eve told reporters amid the celebrations. ‘I thought there were a lot of good teams in the league. There are a lot of well-organized teams and you saw that with four teams fighting for the title up to the last day.’

    The veteran coach implemented a strategic shift in his approach this season, emphasizing both defensive solidity and attacking freedom. Naparima conceded just eight goals in 15 matches while scoring 42—the fourth-highest total in the division. ‘We want to play efficient football,’ Eve explained. ‘We allowed the players in the front part of the pitch to express themselves and have the freedom to play within the structure of the team.’

    Eve paid tribute to previous Naparima coaches Reynold Carrington, Travis Mulraine, and Anthony Sherwood while emphasizing the importance of understanding the school’s football culture. ‘Sometimes, if you don’t know the culture of the place, you may not perform to the optimum in the environment,’ he noted.

    The championship victory demonstrates Eve’s continued coaching prowess as he balances multiple roles while maintaining his reputation for developing organized, difficult-to-beat squads capable of delivering results when it matters most.

  • Last-gasp Foden goal spares Man City’s blushes in win over Leeds

    Last-gasp Foden goal spares Man City’s blushes in win over Leeds

    In a breathtaking Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium, Phil Foden emerged as Manchester City’s savior with a stoppage-time winner, securing a turbulent 3-2 victory against a resilient Leeds United on Saturday. The match, characterized by dramatic momentum shifts, saw Pep Guardiola’s squad narrowly avoid a catastrophic collapse after surrendering a commanding two-goal advantage.

    City’s initial dominance was unmistakable. Foden electrified the home crowd within the first minute, firing a precise strike off the crossbar following Matheus Nunes’ incisive run. Defender Josko Gvardiol appeared to solidify control in the 25th minute, tapping in from close range after Nico O’Reilly’s headed assist. A subsequent VAR review dismissed Leeds’ offside protests, validating the goal.

    However, the match dynamics inverted dramatically after halftime. Substitute Dominic Calvert-Lewin capitalized on a defensive error from Nunes, slotting home in the 49th minute to initiate Leeds’ resurgence. The visitors stunned the stadium by drawing level in the 68th minute; though Gianluigi Donnarumma saved Lukas Nmecha’s penalty after a Gvardiol foul, Nmecha converted the rebound.

    With Erling Haaland unusually quiet in his pursuit of a 100th league goal, Foden shouldered the responsibility in added time, expertly creating space in the box for a composed finish. This critical intervention propelled City to second place, narrowing the gap to league leaders Arsenal to four points ahead of their pivotal clash with Chelsea.

    The victory provided essential redemption for Guardiola’s side following consecutive losses to Newcastle and Bayer Leverkusen—a midweek defeat that prompted the manager’s public criticism of his rotated squad’s effort. The return of stars like Haaland, Bernardo Silva, and Donnarumma proved decisive in securing three vital points.

    In parallel Premier League action, Brentford’s Igor Thiago enhanced his scoring tally with a double in a 3-1 triumph over Burnley, while Sunderland staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat Bournemouth 3-2, climbing to fourth in the table.

  • Monaco shock PSG as Minamino scores winner

    Monaco shock PSG as Minamino scores winner

    In a dramatic Ligue 1 showdown at Stade Louis II, AS Monaco delivered a stunning 1-0 victory against reigning champions Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday. Japanese international Takumi Minamino emerged as the match-winner, scoring the decisive goal in the 65th minute to secure three crucial points for the principality club.

    The former Liverpool attacker demonstrated exceptional technique by controlling Aleksandr Golovin’s precise cross before finishing clinically past PSG goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier. The goal proved particularly significant as Monaco successfully defended their narrow advantage despite being reduced to ten men when German defender Thilo Kehrer received a red card following VAR review in the 80th minute.

    This result marks PSG’s second domestic defeat of the season, equaling their total Ligue 1 losses from each of the previous two campaigns. The capital club faced additional challenges with several key absences, including Achraf Hakimi, Nuno Mendes, and Desire Doue. Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele managed only 30 minutes as a substitute as he continues to regain match fitness amid an injury-disrupted season.

    Meanwhile, Monaco’s victory snapped a concerning three-match losing streak in league competition, provisionally elevating them to sixth position in the standings. The match also featured a brief cameo from Paul Pogba, who made his second competitive appearance following a lengthy doping suspension.

    PSG maintains their top position with 30 points from 14 matches, but their lead has narrowed to just two points ahead of pursuing rivals Marseille and Lens, both of whom have opportunities to claim the summit in their upcoming fixtures.

  • Reggae Girlz thrash Dominica 18-0 in Concacaf Qualifiers

    Reggae Girlz thrash Dominica 18-0 in Concacaf Qualifiers

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national women’s football team delivered an unprecedented performance in Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifying history on Saturday, demolishing Dominica 18-0 at St. Lucia’s Darren Sammy Cricket Stadium. The spectacular victory established both a new tournament scoring record and positioned Jamaica atop Group B on goal differential.

    The Reggae Girlz offensive showcase featured remarkable hat-tricks from three standout players: Khadija ‘Bunny Shaw’ Shaw, Kalyssa Van Zanten, and Jody Brown. This dominant performance shattered Jamaica’s previous qualifying records of 14-0 against St. Lucia (2014) and 13-0 versus Guadeloupe (2018).

    Jamaica established control immediately, netting four goals within the opening ten minutes. By halftime, the scoreboard showed a commanding 10-0 advantage with both Shaw and Van Zanten having already completed their hat-tricks. Shaw’s triple achievement during the first half marked her 60th international goal for Jamaica, further extending her record as the nation’s all-time leading scorer.

    The second half continued the offensive onslaught with Deneisha Blackwood, alongside substitutes Natasha Thomas and Shaneil Buckley, each contributing double goals. This comprehensive victory followed Nicaragua’s 4-0 win against Antigua and Barbuda in the group’s opening match at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium on Thursday.

  • Dominant Barbados win Super50 Cup final with Pride

    Dominant Barbados win Super50 Cup final with Pride

    In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, Barbados Pride secured the CG United Super50 Cup championship on November 29th, defeating Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by a convincing nine-wicket margin at Tarouba’s Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The final match unfolded as a low-scoring affair that highlighted Barbados’ strategic superiority both with ball and bat.

    TT Red Force, batting first after being put in, suffered a dramatic collapse that saw them dismissed for a modest 168 runs in 42.3 overs. Their innings never gained momentum despite opener Tion Webster’s promising start of 43 runs. The team’s veteran all-rounder Jason Mohammed, playing his final List A match, could only contribute 12 runs in what proved an anticlimactic farewell to his distinguished career spanning 140 one-day matches since 2007.

    Barbados’ bowling attack demonstrated exceptional discipline, with Joshua Bishop emerging as the standout performer claiming 4 wickets for 27 runs. Dominic Drakes provided crucial support with identical figures of 4 wickets for 34 runs, systematically dismantling TT’s batting lineup through consistent line and length bowling.

    The chase became a formality as Barbados openers Kyle Mayers and Leniko Boucher launched an aggressive assault on TT’s bowling. Boucher set the tempo with a brisk 50 runs off 51 deliveries before departing, while Mayers remained unbeaten on 89 runs from just 85 balls, showcasing powerful hitting that included multiple boundaries and sixes. Zachary McCaskie provided steady support with 19 not out as Barbados reached their target of 169 runs in merely 29.3 overs.

    This victory marks Barbados Pride’s first Super50 Cup triumph since 2017, denying TT Red Force captain Joshua Da Silva his first senior title and coach Rayad Emrit his maiden coaching crown. The comprehensive nature of Barbados’ win underscored their tournament dominance and served as a fitting tribute to their strategic preparation and execution throughout the competition.

  • Quarter-final places up for grabs in ISSA daCosta Cup

    Quarter-final places up for grabs in ISSA daCosta Cup

    The intense battle for quarter-final berths in the ISSA DaCosta Cup football competition reaches a critical juncture this afternoon as six decisive matches unfold across Jamaica. Following a prolonged 37-day hiatus caused by Hurricane Melissa’s disruptive passage, the tournament’s knockout phase resumes with high-stakes encounters that will determine the first teams to advance.

    Defending champions Garvey Maceo High maintained their title defense aspirations with a hard-fought 3-2 victory against Maggotty High at Wembley Centre of Excellence on Friday. Establishing a commanding 2-0 halftime lead that expanded to 3-0, Garvey Maceo withstanded a fierce Maggotty comeback attempt that produced two late goals but ultimately fell short, eliminating Maggotty from contention after two consecutive losses.

    Saturday’s fixture spotlight shines brightly on the long-awaited derby clash between former champions Clarendon College and Glenmuir High in Chapelton. This parish rivalry match carries significant implications for both sides’ quarter-final ambitions. Teams securing back-to-back victories in this Round of 16 stage will guarantee advancement to the quarter-finals scheduled for December 5th.

    Multiple schools stand poised to secure early progression, including Cornwall College, Christiana High, Ocho Rios High, STETHS, Glenmuir High, McGrath High, and Dinthill Technical. Glenmuir High particularly controls their destiny, needing only a victory over Clarendon College to claim group leadership after previously defeating Maggotty last month.

    Clarendon College enters the matchup boasting an undefeated season record and could potentially join Garvey Maceo at the group summit with a triumph over their rivals. The competition’s landscape shifted unexpectedly with Maldon High’s recent withdrawal, reducing Zone 1 to three teams and creating scenarios where both Cornwall College and Christiana High could simultaneously advance with favorable results.

    In Zone 2, STETHS and Ocho Rios High sit level on three points following respective victories against Kemps Hill and Old Harbour High. Simultaneous wins would secure both teams’ places in the final eight. Meanwhile, Zone 4 features McGrath High leading Dinthill Technical on goal difference, with both teams facing opponents reeling from their first seasonal defeats. Manning’s School seeks redemption after seeing their perfect 10-game winning streak (50-0 aggregate) shattered by Dinthill Technical’s 2-1 victory, while Manchester High aims to rebound from their 2-0 loss to McGrath High.

  • Winless Saint Lucia out of AmeriCup 3×3 hoops

    Winless Saint Lucia out of AmeriCup 3×3 hoops

    Saint Lucia’s participation in the FIBA AmeriCup 3×3 basketball tournament concluded abruptly on the opening day of competition in León, Mexico, following consecutive losses to regional rivals. The national team’s elimination from qualifying Group A was confirmed after suffering defeats against both Jamaica and Guyana on Thursday, November 27.

    In their initial match against Jamaica, Saint Lucia struggled to find rhythm, falling decisively with a final score of 21-7. Despite Sidney Didier opening the scoring with an early basket, Jamaica responded with a devastating 12-0 scoring run that established dominance. A brief resurgence led by Troy Louison’s one-pointer sparked a 4-0 response from Saint Lucia, but Jamaica closed the game with an 8-3 advantage. Statistical disparities proved significant as Jamaica attempted 11 free throws (converting only five) while Saint Lucia had just two opportunities from the line, missing both attempts. Didier finished as Saint Lucia’s top scorer with three points.

    The second qualifying match against Guyana delivered considerably more drama, extending into overtime before concluding 17-15 in Guyana’s favor. Saint Lucia demonstrated marked improvement, establishing an early 4-3 lead through Sharmoir Baptiste and maintaining a three-point advantage midway through the contest. The game featured multiple ties, including at 7-7 and 12-12, before reaching a dramatic conclusion. Louison’s two-pointer at the buzzer forced overtime at 15-15, but Guyana’s Travis Belgrave secured victory with another two-pointer in the extra period.

    Belgrave emerged as the game’s standout performer with 10 points, while Didier and Louison contributed five points each for Saint Lucia. Baptiste added three points and Clayton William two. Both teams struggled from the free-throw line, with Guyana missing all four attempts and Saint Lucia failing to convert their two opportunities.

    Jamaica ultimately won Group A by defeating Guyana 19-14, advancing to the main draw alongside Trinidad & Tobago, who secured progression with victories over Saint Kitts & Nevis (21-7) and Uruguay (21-18).

  • Weymouth Wales set sights on PM Cup glory in $100 000 showdown

    Weymouth Wales set sights on PM Cup glory in $100 000 showdown

    Weymouth Wales and Kickstart Rush are poised for an epic confrontation in the Prime Minister’s Cup final, with both teams vying for the prestigious championship and the substantial $100,000 prize. The decisive match is scheduled for Monday, December 1st at the iconic Kensington Oval, marking a historic moment for Welsh football as they make their inaugural appearance in the tournament’s final stage.

    Under the strategic guidance of coach Asquith Howell, Weymouth Wales enters the final with unwavering determination to conclude their remarkable season triumphantly. The team’s journey to the championship match has been dominant, finishing Group F undefeated before delivering commanding performances against L&R United, Notre Dame (5-2), and a decisive 4-0 semifinal victory over Paradise FC.

    Howell emphasized the team’s collective strength, noting, “Wales’ depth is exceptionally robust with 22 players capable of starting positions. We maintain our strategic approach without adjustments, as every player understands their role in achieving victory for team Wales.” The squad faces one significant concern with striker Shaquille Stewart awaiting MRI results, an situation that has intensified the team’s motivation to secure the title in his honor.

    Kickstart Rush approaches the final with equal conviction, having redeemed last year’s semifinal exit by advancing to this year’s championship match. Captain Sekani Mayers expressed the team’s elevated confidence levels: “Our players have earned this opportunity through rigorous training regimens and unwavering dedication. We’ve strategically blended youthful enthusiasm with veteran experience to create an optimal competitive balance.”

    Manager Chad Bynoe confirmed the return of key player Renaldo Gilkes, who missed the semifinal victory against Wotton, providing additional leadership for the final encounter. Kickstart’s path to the final included topping Group D before securing victories against Greens United, a narrow 2-1 quarterfinal win over Deacons, and their semifinal triumph.

    The anticipated final represents not only athletic excellence but significant financial implications for the winning club, particularly with the holiday season approaching. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable conclusion to Barbados’ premier football competition.

  • Grenada swimming benefits from World Aquatics Age Group Coach Course

    Grenada swimming benefits from World Aquatics Age Group Coach Course

    The Grenada Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) is advancing its coaching capabilities through participation in the prestigious World Aquatics Age Group Swim Coach certification program. Valorie Andrew, assistant coach to Grenada’s 2025 OECS Champion team, has been selected for this elite hybrid training initiative currently underway in Budapest, Hungary.

    Andrew departed Grenada on November 22, 2025, to engage in the comprehensive program that combines 20 hours of e-learning through World Aquatics’ digital platform with five days of intensive in-person sessions. She joins a globally selected cohort of dedicated coaches participating in this rigorous certification process.

    The curriculum addresses multiple critical coaching competencies including integrity and safe sport practices, sport psychology and mental wellbeing, technical stroke development, gender differences in athletic development, nutrition and hydration science, strength and conditioning methodologies, long-term athlete development principles, sports science applications, coaching responsibilities, practical coaching techniques, and strategic planning and periodization.

    The Budapest sessions feature interactive classroom workshops and hands-on practical coaching applications. Participants must complete all program components and pass both online examinations and practical assessments to achieve certification. This initiative aligns directly with GASA’s strategic development plan to enhance coaching capacity and elevate the quality of swim athlete development throughout Grenada.

    Upon her return on November 29, 2025, Andrew is expected to disseminate her acquired knowledge and experience to fellow local coaches, potentially transforming Grenada’s swimming coaching landscape and improving athlete performance outcomes across all age groups.

  • Sisserou Girls head to Jamaica with renewed confidence for CONCACAF qualifier

    Sisserou Girls head to Jamaica with renewed confidence for CONCACAF qualifier

    The Sisserou Girls, Dominica’s senior women’s football squad, have embarked on their journey to Kingston, Jamaica, for a pivotal CONCACAF qualification match this Saturday. Under the guidance of Head Coach Ronnie Gustave, the team approaches the challenge with measured optimism following intensive preparations.

    Gustave’s assessment reveals a team in transformation, addressing previously identified weaknesses from their UEFA tournament performance earlier this year. The coaching staff has implemented comprehensive improvements across technical execution, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude. “Our players demonstrated deficiencies in fundamental ball control, turning techniques, and overall pace during previous international competitions,” Gustave acknowledged. “However, recent training sessions have yielded noticeable advancements in ball movement and gameplay velocity.”

    The strategic enhancement program included specialized training to elevate passing precision and systemic play. “Our previous matches exposed inadequate speed on the pitch and imprecise passing,” Gustave explained. “We prioritized rectifying these elements before advancing our tactical approach.”

    Physical development received equal emphasis through a rigorous strength and conditioning regimen designed to combat previous vulnerabilities. “We addressed the concerning tendency of being easily dispossessed,” Gustave noted. “Our customized fitness program aims to build robust physicality, though we recognize team development remains an evolutionary process.”

    Beyond technical and physical preparation, the team engaged in psychological strengthening through motivational sessions with advocate Delia Coffee Weeks. Gustave emphasized the importance of role models, stating, “Our athletes benefit immensely from inspirational figures like Mrs. Weeks, whose experience and advocacy provide exemplary standards for emulation.”

    The upcoming confrontation presents a formidable challenge against Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz, widely regarded as the Caribbean’s premier women’s football team following their impressive performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, where they secured a historic draw against Brazil.

    Despite the evident disparity in ranking and experience, Gustave maintains a philosophy of collective resilience. “Football’s beauty lies in its unpredictability,” he asserted. “While Jamaica presents substantial challenges, our success hinges on unified teamwork, mutual commitment, and maximal collective effort. With complete physical and mental dedication, we are capable of delivering a respectable performance.”