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New Girlz ready for Panama test
October 25, 2023
Reggae Girlz interim head coach Xavier Gilbert says the labour strike taking place in Panama has not affected the team, and that they are mentally ready to give their best against the hosts today in their first leg Concacaf Women's Gold Cup qualifier despite having a much weakened squad. Kick off time is 6 p.m.
Due to the ongoing labour dispute, the Girlz have been transferred from the Llano Marin hotel to another hotel in Panama City, but Gilbert insists the team is focused on the task at hand and will be looking to give a good account of themselves.
"There is a strike in Panama, so we had to change our hotel. We are now in Panama City. The coaching staff wasn't able to move on Monday night because of the roads that were blocked off. But it didn't affect the players. They were transferred as soon as they landed.
"But based on what is happening, the local organising committee and Concacaf are trying to ensure that the game goes on. But with roads closed and movements limited, we are just working to make sure we are ready, based on the situation," he disclosed.
Gilbert has had just one training session with the second-string squad before the game, and despite going up against a very experienced Panama team, he said they aim to be as competitive as possible.
"The focus will be on our defensive organisation, and we will also look to exploit some spaces we have identified based on our research of the team.
"The objective is to be competitive and this is why we drafted the players we have. It is the best that we have on offer now and we will go out and do what we have to do," he said.
He also believes it is a chance for many of the young players who received their first call-up to stake a claim for future selection.
"This is a good opportunity for the young players. I just want them to grab it with both hands and make the best use of it.
"Most of them are excited. They are grateful for the opportunity to play for their country. But the real test will be on the pitch, but they are excited for the opportunity and ready to go," he said.
In their last clash at the World Cup Jamaica clipped Panama 1-0 with a team which included the top Reggae Girlz. Today's Reggae Girlz squad was only named last week and they will lack cohesiveness after just one training session.
Panama lead the three-team standings after defeating Guatemala 5-3 on aggregate in a home and away tie. Panama won the first match 3-0 in Guatemala but were clipped 3-2 in the return match.
