Canadians tryout for U-17 football squad

Head Coach Gilbert Sampson take the players through their paces at NIS ground on Carifesta Avenue Saturday.

Despite being unable to confirm when the second round of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) World Cup qualifying series will be played, two Canada-based players are in Guyana for tryouts with the National Under-17 squad.

Head Coach Gilbert Sampson take the players through their paces at NIS ground on Carifesta Avenue Saturday.

Junior footballers Khaneil Caesar and Jordan Roberts  who are of Guyanese parentage, arrived in Guyana early last week to tryout with the local players who have advanced to the second stage of the tournament following their success in Dominica in the first round.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) had organized a camp for the players from August 14-17 but the two overseas players missed their flights and could not be here for the programme.

However, the players reassembled last weekend with sessions being held at the Camptown and National Insurance Scheme (NIS) grounds with head coach Gilbert Sampson in charge of the training.

The National Under-17 players were to oppose BV/Triumph United team in a practice match at NIS ground on Carifesta Avenue.

Officials of the GFF confirmed that Guyana’s second round tie was put in limbo following Jamaica’s withdrawal from hosting the round this month.

Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica and another team were grouped to compete in the second stage with the Jamaicans being the host but they subsequently withdraw from hosting.

Guyana had pulled off a remarkable series win in the first round played in Dominica when they edged out the Netherlands Antilles on a better goal average after the two teams tied on similar points.

Guyana and the Netherlands Antilles had played to a 2-2 draw in their opening contest, they both had victories over Aruba, and hosts Dominica but the Guyanese were more convincing against the other two opponents.

GFF officials disclosed that the second round playoff is now likely to take place in December during school break.

However, the GFF has kept the players together with weekend camps.

Players who reside outside of Georgetown were given a training schedule while parents were encouraged to ensure that the players receive proper nutrients.

Team manager Carlos Bernard did indicate at an appreciation ceremony for the players recently that the players are hyped up for their next outing in the CFU tournament.

FIFA’s Under-17 World Cup will take place next year from June 18-July 10 in Mexico.