For years Roma United have been the
most enigmatic team in the Cayman Islands Football Association top flight.
Stylish, always entertaining, it’s no coincidence they try to play like Brazil.
Only problem was, their fluid style and deft movement was not sufficiently
supplemented with the discipline, cohesion and goal scoring elements essential
in all successful teams.
That seems to have changed this
season under new head coach Stephen Petgrave who has gelled the free spirit of
the typical Roma player with the fundamental principles necessary to win
matches.
Consequently, Roma are second in
the Premier League on nine points, only one behind the rampant Elite side that
has smashed in 18 goals. Roma have only scored seven in four matches but
they’ve won three and only conceded four which is a testament to Petgrave
tightening the previous leaky defence. Their only loss was to Bodden Town two
weeks ago 2-1.
Unlike last season, there are no
cliques and major clashes of egos this term which has made the mainly Jamaican
nationals a considerable force. Bobby Sairsingh, Roma’s president, is pleased
with their improvement having seen his side narrowly miss relegation last
season. “We are very happy to have three wins from four games,” he said.
“The wins demonstrate what we are
capable of doing. Our only loss brought back humility, a sense of purpose and
focus to what we are doing. We haven’t changed our style much, the results are
the outcome of better preparation. Being focused and executing our game plans
is the key. The team players have been the best! There is balance and harmony,
no stars.”
Roma could be expected to dip
during December and January when players tend to go home for lengthy vacations
but Sairsingh does not anticipate them losing their rhythm. Most teams get
sluggish around the Christmas season. We do not anticipate being affected any
worse that the others, so we should remain competitive.”
Key players in the Roma side so far
have included Kevin ‘Tikki’ McField who scored the only goal in the victory
against George Town on Sunday, his fourth of the season and the flamboyant
Damalay ‘Marley’ Howelle who attributes the radiant gold streaks in his hair
for bagging three so far. Goalkeeper Clive Morris is in his second season with
the team and has settled nicely.
Naresh ‘Chin’ Hart, Omar ‘Baaba’
Stewart, Craig ‘Craigiss’ Carridice are all back after a season’s break,
batteries recharged. Nicardo Beckford and Alexander ‘Junior’ Dunn have joined from
George Town and are settling in well. The most experienced players are skipper
Tommy ‘Nandy’ Morrison who is in his fourth season and Kenroy ‘Boyze’ Graham, a
seven year veteran.
Roma’s improved attitude and work
ethic will be put to its sternest test on Sunday when they face rampant Elite
in a top of the table clash at the Ed Bush Stadium in West Bay, kick off 7pm.
Whatever happens, it certainly won’t be a dull game judging by previous
encounters.
A lot of credit goes to Petgrave
whose resume includes coaching youth, women and men at all levels. He is
qualified with the Jamaican Football Federation and CIFA as a National and
Premier League referee and certified with the JFF as a coach so his all round
knowledge and experience is exceptional.
Sairsingh added: “Stephen has the
ability to communicate effectively with the players. He has earned their
respect and is now guiding them to achieving their potential and goals.” At
last, it seems they are United by name and in spirit too.
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