A confident national men’s rugby sevens team departed for the Turks and Caicos last evening on a quest to end its title drought and return to the 592 with hardware.
Affectionately dubbed the ‘Green Machine’, the team is of an exciting mix of youth and experienced ruggers which will look to transform into robot mode this weekend when the Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Championship is staged at Meridian Fields in Providenciales.
Prior to departure, Captain Jamal Angus told this publication that he is optimistic that the Theodore Henry coached outfit will play to its best potential. “It’s a nice blend, we have a fair bit of experience and youth in the side.”
He added “I’m excited to see how the youths will perform since we know how the senior, experienced players will perform.” Angus continued, “I think the play of the younger players will be the x-factor for us in this tournament and I think we will play to our best potential.”
Since surrendering the title to Jamaica in 2017, Guyana has been unable to regain the coveted trophy. Their drought may end on this sojourn. Henry stated that his charges are mentally and physically prepared for task ahead. He opined, “My expectation is that as the tournament goes on, this team is going to get better, I have a feeling once the debutants gets their feet wet, we will be a well-oiled machine.”
Seven-time champions, the national side opens their campaign tomorrow at noon against Belize, followed by a clash against Bermuda from 14:15h.
After day one, the top two teams from each of the three pools will advance to the Cup competition, while the bottom team will play for the Plate on day two.
The tournament acts as a qualifier for next year’s World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series, with the winning side gaining the opportunity to compete for the 16th and final spot on the HSBC World Rugby Sevens series.
The ‘Green Machine’ Squad comprises: Jamal Angus (Captain), Godfrey Broomes, Rondell McArthur, Osei Mckenzie, Fabian Joseph, Lancelot Adonis, Peabo Hamilton, Avery Corbin, O’Neil Charles, Johnathon Garnett, Lionel Holder, and Tyrese Prescod.
The management staff are: George David, Manager; Theodore Henry, Head Coach; and Akeem Fraser, Physiotherapist.
