Champs Barbican look to improve

Robert Bailey, Gleaner Writer

Defending champions Barbican have made a shaky start to their defence of the Jamaica Football Federation's Sherwin Williams Women's Football competition this season.

The Charles Edwards-coached Barbican, who are also the knockout champions, have so far recorded one win and a defeat from their two games this season. They were beaten 1-0 by newcomers Los Perfectos in their opening game. However, they bounced back to defeat former champions Harbour View 2-0 in their second match.

Despite the slow start to the season, Edwards said he was confident his team could retain both titles.

Back in shape

"For the last three seasons we have started slow, but worked our way back into top shape by mid-season," said Edwards, who is a former national women's coach.

"I think that we were underprepared for the start of the competition because the rain prevented us from training regularly, and this may have contributed heavily to our loss in our first game," Edwards said.

Barbican's squad has been boosted with the inclusion of overseas-based player Philisha Lewis, who played in the colours of Bethel University in the United States last season, striker Chevannese Clarke, who was the leading scorer in the Premier League two seasons ago, and defender Nicole Nicely, who was an Arnett Gardens player last season.

Pretty confident

"We are pretty confident that we can retain our titles because we have a stronger team than last year, and once we can reach our top gear, I am pretty sure that both trophies will be within our reach," said Edwards.

He added: "However, I think that it won't be easy for us because a lot of teams are showing good form, and so we would have to maintain a solid performance for the entire season."

Barbican are scheduled to play their third match in the competition on Sunday against Arnett Gardens, and Edwards noted they would be going all out for a victory.

"I think that it is going to be a good game for us because Arnett have not picked up a point as yet and, therefore, we will be using this match as a sharpener for the rest of the season," Edwards said.