Campion look to continue good season

Campion College have already made significant strides in this 2022 ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup season going further than they have done for three decades. However, they hope to take the first step of making a good season unforgettable when they face Charlie Smith High in the first leg of their second round matchup this afternoon at 3 o’clock at Ashenheim Stadium.

For Charlie Smith, the second round is yet another step towards the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy they have been without since 1995. However, for Campion, they are venturing into the unknown for the first time in 30 years after a first-round campaign which saw them finish second in their group.

After years of finding themselves at the foot of the table in group stages past, Campion finished with five wins and one draw. While goals have been at a premium for the Ashton Blankson-coached team, with 12 on the campaign, they have conceded only six goals in 10 games, accumulating 19 points in that span. Their only loss of the season came in their final group game on Thursday against Excelsior High who would win Group F with 24 points, five points clear of Campion. Kai Myles has been one of the bright sparks for Campion this season and has been a dangerous threat in front of goal.

Meanwhile, the Eugene Williams-coached Charlie Smith enter the knockout phase of the tournament on the back of a six-game winning streaking and an unbeaten group stage campaign which saw them win Group C with 26 points, six clear of second-place Haile Selassie. Although they have scored the third most goals in their group, they have conceded the fewest in their first round with five. Charlie Smith have made it to the second round each of the last 10 seasons and are looking for their fourth consecutive quarterfinal appearance. In other first-leg ties, many-time champions St George’s College will hope to refocus after their North Street derby loss to reigning champions Kingston College on Saturday as they face Jonathan Grant at the Spanish Town Prison Oval. St George’s are seeing the results of their rebuilding efforts after their first-round exit last season. Haile Selassie High will face Excelsior High while Tivoli High will play Mona High.

daniel.wheeler@gleanerjm.com

Today’s Second Round First Leg Games

Campion College vs Charlie Smith High – Jamaica College

Tivoli High vs Mona High – Stadium East

Haile Selassie High vs Excelsior High – Calabar High

Jonathan Grant vs St George’s College – Spanish Town Prison Oval

All games start at 3:00 p.m.