Following 0-5 defeats to Martinique and Guadeloupe respectively the Guyana national U15 football team wrapped up their tour of French Guiana with a 1-2 defeat to neighbours Suriname.
Guyana led 1-0 at half time through a goal from Troni Semple.
Guyana Football Federation’s Deborah Francis yesterday told Stabroek Sports that despite finishing at the bottom of the ladder, the team’s participation in the tournament was aimed at giving the players the necessary experience and exposure ahead of next year’s CONCACAF tournament.
Head coach Bryan Joseph said of the team’s participation “It was a fantastic experience for the kids. They’ve worked hard, they have finally understood what international football is and what is required.
“I think it was a fantastic decision by the GFF to get us across there so that these guys can experience international tournament football.”
Joseph said the players saw first-hand the level of their peers from the other competing countries which he said should now make them understand why they are requested to train much harder and think about the game more.
“Now they can understand that 15 year-olds can play even better than they’re playing at the moment,” he added.
Joseph said the experience was an eye opener for himself and the coaching staff of the team as well and they now have a better understanding of what is required.
Skipper Joshua Braithwaite also gave his thoughts on the tournament.
“It was a great experience for me and the team as well. It was our first time playing out of Guyana and I think we did well.”
“To me the team did great even though we didn’t win any games,” Braithwaite added.
