The Barbados Tridents and the Bermuda Gombey Warriors played out a frustrating 0-0 draw in their friendly international football match at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex last night.
Looking to replicate their away result from five months ago, the Bajans took the first shot on goal via a corner from captain Rashad Jules, but the game still appeared tense in the opening exchanges.
Technical director Ahmed Mohammed selected overseas-based Carl Hinkson and the lanky Teriq Highland as the right and left full backs, while the experienced Ranaldo Bailey and Shane Codrington marshalled the centre of defence admirably, with Bailey doing an excellent job of mopping up any mess in the ranks, making goalkeeper Keasel Broome’s job a bit more comfortable.
At the opposite end of the pitch, Jules and Barbados Defence Force Sports Programme teammate Raheim Sargeant provided pace and power on the flanks, while the skilful Hadan Holligan played in support of striker Zeco Edmee, who was frustrated for most of the game as the Bermudians sought to make amends for their loss to the Barbadians last year, and against Antigua and Barbuda on Wednesday night.
The Bermudians’ new-look side held their own even though coach Kyle Lightbourne said at the end of the contest that the AstroTurf did not suit his players’ style, a comment that was later echoed by captain Reggie Lambe.
Nevertheless, Justin Donawa came closest for the Bermudians after latching on to a fine pass down the right channel with his shot just millimetres wide of goalkeeper Broomes’ right-hand post.
Though the Tridents were guilty of squandering possession on a few occasions, luckily for them the Bermudians were not effective in the final third much to the joy of the expectant home crowd.
The Barbadians weren’t sharp in the penalty box either, and credit has to be given the sweeper Naeem Griffith, who averted the danger posed by Edmee.
Deep into the second half, with the score still deadlocked, Swiss tactician Mohammed and his staff had seen enough and centre midfielder Akeem Hill was swapped for winger Akeem Applewhaite.
Striker Edmee’s night would soon be over as well as he was replaced by the hero of the first leg, teenager Dishon Howell, as Mohammed sensed the opportunity for another victory.
Both defences must be hailed as the Bajans also efficiently handled the fresh-legged attackers thrown into the mix by visiting coach Lightbourne.
Captain Rashad Jules also had his number raised by the fourth official, signalling the arrival of another teenager, Thierry Gale, into the fray.
Seeking to utilise a teenaged forward to once again break Bermudian hearts, Mohammed almost got his wish, but Gale missed the final chance of the game to give his team a precious win.
Having evaded the opponents’ defensive line, Gale was one on one with goalkeeper Jahquil Hill, but blasted his shot well over the bar.
The Barbadians walked away with a clean sheet and match practice ahead of proposed friendlies in June and the CONCACAF Nations League in September. (NM)