Lady Jags clash with traditional rival Suriname tonight

Lady Jaguars goal-scorer Brianne Desa (left) tussling with a Bermudian player for possession of the ball during their group-E clash in the CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora
Lady Jaguars goal-scorer Brianne Desa (left) tussling with a Bermudian player for possession of the ball during their group-E clash in the CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora

The Lady Jaguars will oppose neighbours and traditional foe Suriname tonight from 19:00hrs in a pivotal group-E clash in the CONCACAF Women’s Qualifiers at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora.

Both teams are in similar positions, with the hosts battling to a 2-2 draw with Bermuda in their opener, while Suriname went down 2-1 to Barbados.

It will be the fourth meeting of the teams, with the home side starting as the firm favourite due to their unbeaten record against the Dutch nation.

In terms of the numbers, Guyana has secured two victories, with the most recent showdown ending 2-2 on April 27th in Trinidad and Tobago at the CFU Women’s Championship.

The Lady Jaguars have recorded an impressive total of six goals during this series, with only three goals conceded by the rearguard.  

Head-Coach of the Lady Jaguars, Dr Ivan Joseph, following the Bermuda game, said, “Unfortunately it resulted in a tie, both teams are behind Barbados right now. Both teams have to come out and be

victorious, as it will come down to goal differential to get a chance to go forward.”

Asked about the concerns of injuries heading into the pivotal clash, Joseph declared, “We are always concerned, we got two starters with injuries before the [Bermuda] game being started and 10 minutes into the game we lost our starting centre-back with injury. Three games in five days is a tough haul, you need the depth of your team with that form.”

Joseph added, “In order to move forward no team is going to play only 14

players, you are going to need all 19 players to play, as the wear and tear is too much. While I am concerned I am hopeful that our players have the resilience to battle through it.”

Group leader Barbados will oppose Bermuda in the earlier fixture at 17:00hrs.