Cayman Brac Football Club surprised everyone and even themselves when they pulled off a come-from-behind draw in the Cayman Islands Football Association Premier League opening fixture last week.
Late goals from Denrick “The Machine” Gayle and captain Carlos Matute secured a 2-2 draw against the reigning champions Bodden Town at their ground, aka “The Office.”
“Everybody was shocked when the news started to spread,” said Cayman Brac head coach Mitchum Sanford. “It surprised a massive amount of people and it had to, because going in, everyone was counting on their hands the tally that Bodden Town will accumulate on Cayman Brac.”
Brac shook off a nervous start and conceding two goals. “That was a courageous performance by the players and staff. It was a surprise but we welcome it very much,” Sanford added.
After last season’s success in Division One, Brac was bolstered by the return home of Jamie Sanford, Chase Miller and Devon Connolly, three recent university graduates.
Brimming with confidence from the unexpected BT result, Brac is looking forward to their fixture against Roma United this weekend. Roma were Division One champions last season and promoted with Brac, the runners-up. The rivals meet on Saturday at the G. Haig Bodden Field in Bodden Town, kick off 8 p.m.
“Preparations for Saturday are going fantastic, Roma and Cayman Brac have a very strong relationship,” Sanford said. “We enjoy each other’s company and challenging each other. We are looking forward to it and we know Roma are too.”
Despite putting their initial promising performance, Brac have one simple ambition, “survive the season,” Sanford quipped.
While not promising more shock results, Sanford thinks Brac should not be dismissed. “That draw against Bodden Town gave us much hope for the season,” he said.
“We are more optimistic and it gives my players much more confidence going into playing every one of the Premier League teams.”
In other fixtures this weekend, Bodden Town face Sunset, Cayman Athletic tackles George Town and Elite faces Scholars International in an all West Bay clash.
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