With the GuyOil/Tradewind Tankers U18 Secondary School Football League slated to conclude on Sunday, tournament coordinator, the Petra Organization, staged a pre-match press conference yesterday at the Brandsville Hotel, Pike Street with the competing Christianburg/Wismar outfit and Golden Grove unit.
Troy Mendonca, Co-Director of the Petra Organization, stated that the fact the title will be decided on the final day in what can be described as a virtual final is a rare feat, noting that this reality speaks volume for the competition.
He further said, “We have seen over the last seven weeks these two teams demonstrate a level of consistency and development from day one to day six. Come Sunday we expect a pulsating final as they would have put their best forward before and we expect nothing less on Sunday.”
Christianburg/Wismar currently sit atop the standings on 15 points, while Golden Grove are perched on 14 points. Christianburg/Wismar only require a point to clinch the title, while the East Coast Demerara unit must secure a victory to claim the championship.
Dellon Peters, coach of Christianburg/Wismar Secondary stated that the team has performed credibly while only suffering one setback, adding that the inaugural winner of the tournament missed out on the title from the previous edition by a solitary point, and is focused on re-capturing the championship.
Asked if his approach to the match will be different given that a draw will be enough to secure the championship, Peters said, “Our approach is no different from any other approach, we don’t go out there for a draw. We go out there to win, and if we get a draw we see it as unfortunate.”
On the other hand, Devon Gilbert, captain of Christianburg/Wismar Secondary, said, “It has been a great experience since the tournament started and we hope to come out on top and take the trophy back to Linden.”
Meanwhile, Shenika Griffith, Manager of Golden Grove stated that the tournament has been a thrilling experience and that the team has worked hard to be in the position to challenge on the final day for the title.
Griffith further thanked the Petra Organization and the sponsors for the opportunity to participate and showcase their talents, adding that the expectation is to put the best foot forward in the final encounter.
Also, Captain Kellon Croal said, “We have worked hard and I am happy that we reach this point and we are going to put our best foot forward and come with a victory.”
Meanwhile, President’s College will oppose Cummings Lodge in the earlier affair. The event is also sponsored by the Ministry of Education, and MVP Sports.
