Big showdown out west
FOOTBALL FANS in western Jamaica could be in for a treat this afternoon when Red Stripe Premier League leaders FC Reno of Westmoreland and defending champions Montego Bay United go head to head at the Frome Complex at 3:30 p.m.
Having struggled to stay in the league the past two seasons, Reno’s position at the top of the table may come as a surprise to many, but for Coach Wendell Downswell, his group is a team on the rise.
“We are building a team to last, and part of succeeding is being dominant at home. We want to be dominant at home and, so far, we have started that trend and want to continue in that vein,” Downswell said, making reference to their home win over Humble Lion.
Reno’s strength appear to be their backline as they are yet to concede a goal, the only team in the league with that record, but Downswell said their success so far is a result of team effort.
“It has been a collective effort from the team more than anything else and this is the approach that we will continue to take.
“This game is a good matchup. We are looking forward to it. MoBay are a tough assignment and we are looking forward to it with great expectations,” added Downswell, who will be looking to the likes of Afiba Chambers, Renario Downswell, Lynval Wilson and captain Jahshane Foster to carry the fight to Montego Bay United.
Like FC Reno, Montego Bay United have won their last two matches and are confident going in this game
“We are looking forward to facing Reno. We want to show off the good football from western Jamaica, and both teams should be up to the task,” club executive Sandra Christie told the Sunday Gleaner.
Christie added that while Reno should be given respect, her club has the measure of them.
READY FOR RENO
“We are ready for them and we know what they have and we know what it takes to get the better of them. We stopped them on every occasion we met last year,” she added, making reference to their 2-1, 2-0 and 2-0 victories last season.
“The team is taking shape now. Our fitness is getting better and the injured players are returning to the team. Dino Williams and Allan Ottey will lead the charge for us, but look out also for Johan Weatherly and Cory Hylton,” she explained.
TODAY’S GAMES:
3:30 p.m.: Boys’ Town FC vs Portmore United – Barbican Complex
3:30 p.m.: Reno FC vs Montego Bay United – Frome Complex
3:30 p.m.: MaverleyHughenden
IIIRenorio Downswell (right) in action against Arnett Gardens’ Ranike Anderson during a recent match. Downswell will be one of the key men for leaders Reno today.
vs Jamalco – Constant Spring Complex
3:30 p.m.: Humble Lion vs Waterhouse – Effortville Community Centre
I3 p.m.: Arnett Gardens vs Harbour View – Anthony Spaulding Complex 3:30 p.m.: Tivoli Gardens vs UWI FC – Edward Seaga Complex
IITeams