The final of the Rugby Americas North (RAN) 15s championships between Guyana and Mexico on October 1 is fast approaching. Hence, the ‘Green Machine’ is currently hard at work gearing up to rev again in the high altitude country following wins against Barbados and Jamaica here and an away victory versus Trinidad.
However there is good and bad news in the camp. According to president of the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), Peter Green, RAN will sponsor the cost of the national team to travel to Mexico three days before the match. “They will be paying the airfare and accommodation for the 23 players and three officials,” Green disclosed.
Nonetheless, Green stated on Saturday that:“We really need some money in the neighborhood of $2.5M to be able to cover us comfortably for this game.
“Our main concern is playing gear. Going to Mexico at this time of the year will be a bit cold so logistics such as getting jackets and so forth and going a few days earlier to acclimatize is a concern. In Mexico its high altitude, so it’s always a challenge when players go to settle in in just a few days but nevertheless, I have the confidence that my boys will be able to adjust to the changes because they are champions.” Quizzed on if the union has approached corporate Guyana and the government for support, Green replied: “We had a meeting with Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine and Argentinian Ambassador where they have agreed in principle to assist us in the area with a high level, experienced Argentinian coach to help us in the scrum department.
“In addition to that, there is a 90% certainty that the government of Guyana will be able to assist us financially with some money for us to meet that goal.”
Green disclosed that a meeting is imminent on September 19 or the 20th.
When asked about his expectations of the local ruggers come October 1, Green without hesitation and a hint of humor told this publication: “We are not going to Mexico for a siesta, we are going there to win.”
Green also noted that the winner of the RAN trophy, progresses to the next round to qualify for the 2019 World Cup in November.
