By Vivian Tyson
Sports Editor
The Turks and Caicos Islands Senior Men's National Football Team open their Nations League account against Anguilla today at the TCI Field on Venetian Road, Providenciales starting at 3:30p.m.
In an exclusive interview with NewslineTCI, National Coach Aaron Lawrence, he shared his optimism about the team's prospects, emphasizing the blend of youth and experience that he believes will be the key to success.
"We have a better-rounded squad that can do a job," Lawrence asserted. "The confidence level is very high. The first game is against a team that we have played before. And those who remember the penalty shootout know how we lost that game. We're preparing ourselves for such situations and are fully focused on going for the win. Absolutely, we're working on it."
Lawrence highlighted the team's preparation, noting significant improvements in various areas. "The preparation for the team is going well. We're much fitter and stronger because we've been working on physical strength. Tactically, we're much better, and technically, we've also made strides. Overall, I think we have been preparing well, and now it’s just for the players to go out there and execute on the day. I have no doubt in my mind that they will execute and give a good show, coming out with the victory that we all need."
The coach is clear about the team’s objectives: to rise above their current group and improve their standing in the rankings. "We set a target and a goal that we want to leave this group, this zone that we're in, because we've been here for a long while. We need to move up in the rankings. These are the aspirations the players have in mind, and they are determined to achieve it for the first time—to move from this group to the next."
A key aspect of this campaign will be the leadership and experience of seasoned players like Billy Forbes and Mackenson Cadet. Forbes, a veteran of the squad, is expected to play a crucial role in guiding the team on and off the field. Cadet, along with other experienced players such as Junior Paul and Raymond Burey, will also be instrumental in providing the stability and leadership needed to steer the team to success.
However, it is not just the veterans who will be in the spotlight. Lawrence is also looking to some of the younger talents to make a significant impact. "We have a few young players coming in who can make a difference," Lawrence said. "Players like Emmanuel Martin and Zaidan Jones—those young boys can come out there and make a real difference for us. So, I think we are in a much better place now than the last time."
The upcoming matches will be hosted by the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) at the TCIFA National Academy in Providenciales. As the second-highest-ranked member association in League C, Group B of the Concacaf Nations League, the Turks and Caicos Islands will have home advantage for all matches scheduled during the September window.
Three days later, on Saturday, September 7, the TCI Men will go into action again, when they face Belize in a home game. Following that game, they will round off their September assignments at the said venue against Belize in technically an away game.
The home ground advantage is something that Lawrence and his squad are eager to capitalize on. The familiarity with the venue, combined with the support of local fans, is expected to provide an added boost to the team’s confidence as they kick off their Nations League campaign.
With a well-rounded squad, the blend of experienced and young players, and meticulous preparation, the Senior Men’s National Football Team is poised to make a strong statement in their Nations League opener against Anguilla. The stage is set, and Aaron believes the team is ready to execute their plan and deliver the results that both they and their fans desire.
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