Following their 2-1 win over the La Horquetta Rangers team out of Trinidad and Tobago on Friday 14th, Team Saint Lucia is set to take on the visitors in another friendly today (Tuesday 18th) at the Sab Sporting Facility (Vigie) from 4:00 p.m.
On Friday 14th, the Saint Lucia National Football Team played its first of two friendlies against the La Horquetta Rangers at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground (DSCG).
The match was the first under newly appointed Head Coach Jammal Shabazz, who had earlier indicated that the objective of these matches was to see what progress the team has made since its one month of training, and in addition, to see how they respond to the tactical system implemented.
It was also an opportunity to critically assess the players against formidable opponents.
From the opening whistle Team Saint Lucia showing no nerves literally took the fight to the Rangers and displayed a fine brand of attacking football spearheaded by captain Zane Pierre.
The relentless pressure bore dividend as in the 8th minute of play Kurt Frederick put the home team ahead with a well struck penalty.
As the pendulum swung back and forth with Saint Lucia enjoying the better of the exchanges, neither team was able to make use of the opportunities presented, as the half ended 1 – 0.
Following the resumption a rejuvenated Rangers team took control and forced Team St Lucia on the defensive resulting in several errors being committed. Hence it was no surprise when Tyrone Charles equalized in the 53rd minute.
This goal served as a wakeup call for the local team who quickly got into stride as they began stringing the passes together to telling effect, resulting in Andres Remy putting them ahead 2 – 1.
From henceforth the game got a bit physical in nature with injuries being suffered by players on both teams. Despite it all, Team Saint Lucia continued to enjoy the better of the exchanges but poor finishing denied them of any further goals.
When the final whistle sounded it was a relieved but confident Home Team who was left basking in their hard fought 2 – 1 victory.
The starting Eleven for Team Saint Lucia: Vino Barclett, Djal Augustin, Alvinus Mters, Melvin Doxilly, Zaine Pierre (captain), Kurt Frederick, Otev Lawrence, Lester Joseph, Andres Remy, Jevick MacFarlane and Antonio Joseph.