Graham: RSPL needs a holiday break

MICHAEL GRAHAM, the coach of Red Stripe Premier League outfit Reno, has called for a less hectic end-of-year schedule for the country’s top football competition.

He said the festive season is a time for family and the organisers could make some adjustments by giving the players a break for the holidays. The players were in action last Thursday, four days ahead of Christmas Day.

“They (players) should have been given a break of at least two weeks to get them to refocus. As it is, however, we will just have to honour the fixtures,” Graham said yesterday.

Reno are now on their longest winless run of the season with four draws and two losses in their past six matches after a great start to the season. They now sit in sixth place with 22 points and according to Graham the team has lost concentration and needs a win to regain confidence.

“I think at this point it’s more a mental thing because going six games without a win can be demotivating, so we just have to get that win to feel confident again,” Graham said ahead of today’s away clash against Tivoli Gardens.

Tivoli Gardens boast one of the best home records in the Premier League with five wins, two draws and one loss, but the Reno coach remains optimistic going into the Edwards Seaga Sports Complex this afternoon.

“I think when we go on the road we get a better showing from the guys. I know playing at Tivoli won’t be an easy task, it’s going to be a hard fought game, but I think despite the challenges, we can get something out of the game,” he added.