‘We’re here to compete’

While some will view today’s match between the All-Manning Cup vs the All-daCosta Cup teams as a friendly, coaches from both sides have stated their players will come into the game with the intention of claiming bragging rights.

A selection of the best players from this season’s Manning and daCosta Cup competitions will clash today at the Jamaica College (JC) Ashenheim Stadium.

Speaking ahead of the match, Anthony Patrick, a member of the All-Manning Cup coaching staff, said the players are here with the sole purpose of competing at their best.

“They are definitely here to compete,” Patrick insisted. “If you ask each and every one of these players one by one, they will tell you this is what they want. They are here to showcase their talent and are here to prove that the Manning Cup is the best schoolboy football (SBF) showcase.”

Patrick, who had guided St Catherine High to their first-ever Manning Cup final appearance, said the squad is expecting a tough challenge against their opponents from the rural SBF competition.

However, he is confident his squad has the talent to find the winning edge when they take to the field.

“Taking nothing away from the All-daCosta Cup team, we know that they have a pretty good team with some excellent players but I think we are the stronger team and I think talent-wise, our players will showcase their talent.”

Key among the Manning Cup squad will be JC captain Dyllan John who has shown his pedigree this season.

He will receive support from the ever-reliable Denzel McKenzie of Mona High while Manning Cup MVP, Kvist Paul, is expected to lead the backline.

Hoping the rain on their parade, however, is Jermaine Thomas, a member of the All-daCosta Cup coaching staff.

Thomas explained the players are ready to represent for the pride of the daCosta Cup as each player selected represents the best of their schools and their position.

“To me, it means a lot and for the players as well to be here,” Thomas said regarding the team’s selection.

“Being here with the coaching staff, it is a continuation of more success. The players are here to compete and getting this opportunity, speaks to the value of work they have been putting in and they are ready to serve to the best of their abilities.”

The team will be looking towards the daCosta Golden Boot and leading goalscorer Orane Watson of Glenmuir to lead from the front.

In their midfield, McGrath’s and the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) man of the moment Devone Davis is expected to play a crucial role in the team’s chances.

The competition will start at 3 p.m. with the scholastic teams from both Manning and daCosta Cup taking to the field before the All-Manning and All-daCosta Cup teams take centre stage at 5 p.m.