JPL: Tivoli, Waterhouse clash at Sabina Park

Cross town rivals, Tivoli Gardens and Waterhouse, will square off in the feature Jamaica Premier League (JPL) game this afternoon as the competition moves to Sabina Park. The feature kicks off at 3 p.m. and is the opening match of a double-header at the central Kingston venue. In the second match at 5:15 p.m., Harbour View oppose Vere United.

After going their first six games without a win, Tivoli chalked up consecutive victories in their last two matches to climb to mid-table with nine points and coach Philip Williams says his team will be aiming to continue their recent winning trend. He expects a tough battle against the joint league leaders.

“Waterhouse and Tivoli have always had tough matchups. It doesn’t matter what the form is, when we play each other it is always a good game and I do not expect this one to be any different,” Williams said.

Waterhouse’s coach, Marcel Gayle, who has been with the club for most of his career, first as a youth and assistant coach, before returning as head coach a few seasons ago, also expects a competitive game.

“This is the cross town derby and it is always close and exciting. It is a timely game for both teams, so I expect a good match as usual from Tivoli,” he said.

He added that despite a slight dip in form, which saw them losing and drawing consecutive games, they remain positive. Gayle is, however, fully aware of the threat Tivoli will present.

“They recently won two games and we are well aware of their improvement. But we know their weaknesses and their strengths and if we can nullify those strengths, we can capitalise on the weaknesses.

CONFIDENT TEAM

“With the firepower they have, they can be dangerous but we are still a confident team and we are where we want to be. We believe we are equal to the task and we just want to go out and execute. Once we can execute on the day, victory is likely,” he said.

Tivoli won their last two matches without leading striker Warner Brown (four goals). However, in his absence Stephen Barnett has led the attack and his three goals in two games paved the way for those victories.

Brown returns for today’s match but Williams disclosed that he will not be put in from the start.

“The youngster (Anthony Nelson) who came in for Warner (Brown) did very well and deserves to keep his spot for this game. Brown will definitely be on the bench and, hopefully, he will get a chance to go in before the 90-minutes end. He was dealing with some personal matters, so he has to work his way back into the team,” he said.

Waterhouse have the same number of points, 17, as leaders Mount Pleasant but the latter lead on goals. Arnett Gardens also have 17 points but are third on goal difference.

Tivoli, with nine points, are seventh in the table, just two points behind sixth-place Harbour View. Vere United are ninth with seven points.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com