Coach expects a ‘spirited’ Jamaica against T&T

Following their opening defeat to Barbados in the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-19 Girls Championship, head coach O’Neil Ebanks expects a much improved performance from Jamaica against Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) today.

Jamaica lost their first game of the championship 3-1 to the Barbadians on Sunday after a strong start which saw the team taking the first set 25-23.

However, Jamaica could not maintain their lead as Barbados took the next three sets 25-23, 25-17 and 25-21.

Ebanks felt the team could have played better in their opening game but felt the inexperience at the national level played a part in his team’s result.

He expects a better performance this time around as they have gotten more accustomed to the level of competition.

“They realised they could have played a lot better which is why I’m looking forward to an improved and more spirited performance,” he said. “If you don’t fail, then you don’t have anything at all to learn from. So learning from what happened will make them better players and I know that they will improve their game.”

T&T are in the same position as Jamaica having also been defeated 3-1 by Barbados in their opening game on Saturday.

Ebanks said having watched the Trinidadians in action, Jamaica are well-prepared to take on their rivals from the twin-island republic.

“We had the opportunity of seeing them play and we have taken note of the players so we are hoping to take full advantage of some of their weaknesses,” he said.

“But then again, on the day of the game, things can change so we’re just gearing ourselves up to make the necessarily adjustments as the game proceeds.”

He said the match will not be a stroll in the park as T&T will also be vying for the win to keep their championship hopes alive.

Ebanks praised the Trinidadian team for their quality as he acknowledged there are no ‘easy teams’ in the competition.

“I think we can do it but it’s not going to be easy I can tell you that. It is going to be an uphill task because any team that is at the championship deserves to be here so there are no weak teams here. They are the best out of their country and that is why they are here.”

The match is set to take place at 7 p.m. at the GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport.