Phillip grabs six, but Red Force falter with bat

The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force bowlers picked up where they left off on the opening day of their West Indies Championship Four-Day clash with the Leeward Islands Hurricanes, as they bowled out the opposition for just 131 in the first innings at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua, earlier today. 

However, unlike the first meeting between the two teams, the Red Force batsmen hardly had things their own way, as the visitors were left in a precarious position at 85 for six by the end of the day's play. 

Coming off an emphatic innings and 271-run victory over the Leewards, Red Force captain Joshua Da Silva didn't hesitate when he won the toss this morning, sending the hosts to bat first. The Red Force didn't have to wait long to see positive returns, and fast bowler Anderson Phillip bossed the first half of the day's proceedings with figures of six for 38. Phillip bowled with good pace and hit a consistent length on off stump, dislodging the top four of Mikyle Louis (13), Kadeem Henry (13), Keacy Carty (four) and the struggling Jewel Andrew (golden duck). 

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force fast bowler Anderson Phillip. Photo courtesy Red Force

Drafted into the playing XI for this game, number three batsman Karima Gore was the only player who offered resistance as he cracked 57 off 90 balls, and was ultimately the last man out as he drove Terrance Hinds (one for 46) out to Jason Mohammed at deep cover. 

Jayden Seales also had a good day with ball in hand and returned figures of three for 33 as he took the wickets of Justin Greaves (six), Jahmar Hamilton (duck), and Rahkeem Cornwall (two). 

With the first day's pattern seemingly following the script from the first encounter, the Leewards fast bowlers quickly had their say to make several inroads of their own. Perhaps inspired after receiving his Leewards cap from legendary Windies pacer Curlty Ambrose before the start of play, Kelvin Pitman rocked the Red Force top order with figures of four for 20. Not to be outdone, burly Jamaican pacer Oshane Thomas (two for 32) once again bowled with pace and hostility to clean up Evin Lewis (18) and dismiss first-match double centurion Amir Jangoo for 13. Thomas wasn't done there, as he also struck Jyd Goolie (six) on the hand with a rapid bouncer, forcing the left-hander to retire his innings. 

Leeward Islands Hurricanes fast bowler Kelvin Pitman receives his playing cap from the legendary Curtly Ambrose

Though Phillip may have thought his exploits with the ball warranted a well-deserved rest, he has joined a watchful Da Silva (16 not out) in the middle. Together, the pair will hope they grind out enough runs to give Red Force a lead going into the second innings. The hosts currently have a 46-run lead, but with three days left, this contest is far from over. 

Roundup of scores in the West Indies Four-Day Championship after today's action. Photo courtesy Cricket West Indies media 

Summarised Scores: 

LEEWARD ISLANDS HURRICANES - 131 (Karima Gore 57, Jeremiah Louis 19, Mikyle Louis 13; Anderson Phillip 6/38, Jayden Seales 3/33) vs TT RED FORCE - 85/6 (Evin Lewis 18, Joshua Da Silva 16 not out, Amir Jangoo 13; Kelvin Pitman 4/20, Oshane Thomas 2/32). Leewards lead by 46 runs. 

Ceren, El Salvador end Trinidad and Tobago's dream

Two clinical right-footed strikes from El Salvador captain Brenda Ceren were all it took to dash this country's 2027 Fifa Women's World Cup hopes, as the senior women's football team lost 2-0 in a must-win Concacaf W Qualifier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, tonight. 

With the win, El Salvador deservedly move on to the Concacaf W Championship, while Trinidad and Tobago's qualifying journey ends here. Hopefully, for the sake of the women's programme, the team doesn't need to be weeks or months away from a qualifying competition before a staff and competent team can be put together. 

In December, coach Damian Briggs' TT team got a 5-0 win away to Barbados, before clawing back to get a 2-2 draw away to Honduras last month. The latter result, combined with El Salvador's comfortable 3-0 and 13-0 wins over Honduras and Barbados, respectively, meant TT needed a win tonight to top group F and move on to the next phase of qualifying. 

Members of the TT women's football team huddle during a session at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo. Photo courtesy TTFA

In what is quickly becoming a theme when supporting the varying national teams, fans would have left the stadium pointing to the team's fight, heart, and determination. However, overall, the team lacked the sustained quality and even fitness levels to trouble the visitors. And once Ceren opened the scoring in the 37th minute with a shot from a tight angle after being sprung on the counter, TT's task became an uphill one as they needed to score twice without conceding again. 

Unfortunately, despite cries and chants from fractions of the modest crowd, a comeback never looked likely. 

Teenage starlet Nikita Gosine was arguably TT's brightest outfield player, and she took on the mantle of the home team's attacking thrust once 37-year-old captain Kennya "Yaya" Cordner was substituted in the 61st minute. However, despite her best efforts and support from her family and cheering posse, the Pleasantville Secondary standout couldn't do it alone. She shouldn't need to. 

By that time, TT were already down 2-0, as Atlas FC's Ceren scored her second in the 51st minute when she toyed with the defenders before curling an exquisite shot past goalie Simone Eligon and into the bottom corner. Ceren comes from a football-mad family, as her three siblings have represented El Salvador at the international level. Tonight, she was in a class of her own. 

El Salvador women's football team captain Brenda Ceren. Photo courtesy Fifa 

Eligon could hardly be blamed for the goals conceded, as she made some key saves which kept her team in the contest and displayed composed handling for most of the match. 

The heart and grit in the TT team came from the 16-year-old Gosine and left back Kaitlyn Darwent, 17, who deputised in the place of injured AS Saint-Etienne defender Kedie Johnson, a big miss with her bombing runs down the flank. Liana Hinds also put in a shift in the middle of the park before making way in the final few moments. 

With 42 per cent possession to their name, the hosts did have fleeting moments of quality in the final third. Their best chance arguably fell to Gosine in the 27th minute, but she fired a left-footer over the bar from a tight angle after being found over the top by Asha James. In the 56th minute, Gosine had an instinctive swing at goal after a smart swivel outside the area, but Riley Melendez was equal to the task. 

In the end, it was another disappointing trip to the Hasely Crawford Stadium, but it was a fruitful one for El Salvador as they look to take their place in their maiden Concacaf W Championship. For the TT football faithful and those at the TT Football Association, the postmortem will now begin. 

TT women's football team flanker Nikita Gosine rides a tackle during the Concacaf W Qualifier away to Honduras in March 2026. Photo courtesy TTFA

Trinidad and Tobago Starting XI: 1.Simone Eligon (GK); 4.Emma Schneider, 12.Myla Schneider, 6.Victoria Swift, 22.Kaitlyn Darwent; 7.Liana Hinds, 8.Elise Franco; 11.Aaliyah Prince, 23.Asha James, 9.Nikita Gosine; 19.Kennya Cordner (captain). 

'Yaya' ready to lead from the front

Expect skipper Kennya "Yaya" Cordner to lead from the front when the Trinidad and Tobago women's football team play El Salvador from 6 pm today at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo in a must-win Concacaf W Qualifier. 

At 37, Cordner is still a big part of the TT women's setup, and is expected to lead the line for coach Damian Briggs' team as they hunt the victory which will take them to the Concacaf W Championship. With El Salvador leading group F of the Concacaf W Qualifiers on six points, anything less than a win for the second-placed TT (four points) will spell the end of their 2027 Fifa Women's World Cup qualifying run. 

Speaking to media personality Whitney Husbands earlier this week during the team's residential camp, Cordner touched on the importance of her role as team leader. 

"As the captain, I have to lead from the front because I'm no stranger to the game. I am worldwide and international, so I have to lead as the captain that I am for the younger ones, because they are the future," Cordner said. 

Trinidad and Tobago women's football team coach Damian Briggs and team captain Kennya "Yaya" Cordner at yesterday's media briefing at Radisson Hotel in Port of Spain. Photos courtesy TTFA

"(The players) have to stamp their name and authority because we have to show (the) TT (public) that women could still play the football and we could still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup," Cordner said, of the intensity that will be needed for the El Salvador match. 

Though approaching 40, Cordner said she still has a lot left in the tank to produce at this level and has a burning desire to help her country get a step closer to next year's World Cup in Brazil. 

"Sometimes people feel your age is too big of a number for you to continue the game. Age is just a number," the Speyside-born forward said. "I'm 37, and I'll be 38 in November. I may not run like the 18, 16 and 24 year olds, but I can still run as much as 70-plus minutes in a football game because once you're mentally in it and you mentally want something...you will go after it." 

She said the residential camp was integral to building team chemistry off the field, and it also gave her a chance to rub shoulders with the younger players whom she expects to take up the mantle once she and other experienced heads call it a day. 

Gates for today's clash will open from 4 pm, while tickets will be on sale at the venue from 3 pm. Regular uncovered tickets are priced at $60, while two-for-one uncovered tickets are priced at $100. Covered tickets are priced at $120. 

Members of the Trinidad and Tobago women's football team go through their paces on the eve of their Concacaf W Qualifier with El Salvador. 

Kevin Wickham cracks pair of centuries in Four-Day opener

Barbados Pride top-order batsman Kevin Wickham has made a grand statement to start the 2026 West Indies Four-Day Championship season, rattling off a pair of centuries in his team's opener against the Jamaica Scorpions at Chedwin Park, Spanish Town, Jamaica. 

In the first innings, the 23-year-old right-hander spanked a First-Class best of 153 off 193 balls as Barbados posted a formidable score of 348. With the Jamaicans replying with a solid first-innings score of 342, the stylish Wickham returned for more in Barbados' second innings by hitting an unbeaten 108 off 155 balls, his fifth First-Class century in only his 22nd match. In the second innings, Wickham shared in a 116-run stand for the sixth wicket with Shamar Springer (54 off 98) as the Barbados Pride eventually declared on 317 for eight. 

Barbados Pride right-hander Kevin Wickham plays a cut shot against Jamaica Scorpions in their 2026 West Indies Championship Four-Day opener in Spanish Town, Jamaica. Photos courtesy Cricket West Indies/Athelstan Bellamy

Set an improbable 324 for victory on today's fourth and final day, the Scorpions were sitting comfortably at 85 without loss at the time of publication, as the teams looked destined for a draw. 

The Pride and the Scorpions will bowl off the second match of their three-match series from April 19 at Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica. 

Summarised Scores: 

BARBADOS PRIDE - 348 (Kevin Wickham 153, Kyle Mayers 64, Shamar Springer 40, Joshua Bishop 37; Marquino Midley 4/32, Peat Salmon 4/104) & 317/8 declared (K Wickham 108 not out, Shayne Moseley 65, S Springer 54, Kraigg Brathwaite 44; M Mindley 3/48, Abhijai Mansingh 2/56) vs JAMAICA SCORPIONS - 342 (Carlos Brown 61, Odean Smith 49 not out, P Salmon 45, Romaine Morris 42; Jomel Warrican 5/71, K Mayers 2/17) & 85/0 (John Campbell 40 not out, Kirk McKenzie 26 not out). 

Kevin Wickham raises his bat after reaching the century mark against the Jamaica Scorpions in their 2026 West Indies Championship fixture. 

Red Force blow away Hurricanes in three days

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force made light work of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes in their opening match of the 2026 West Indies Four-Day Championship when they completed a dominant innings and 271-run win at the Coolidge Cricket ground, Antigua, on April 14. 

The Leewards never came to the party in what is the first of three meetings between the teams in a unique regional season, as they were bowled out for meagre scores of 138 and 98, granting the Red Force victory on only the third day. In contrast, the Red Force batsmen seemed like they were batting on a different pitch. And led by left-hander Amir Jangoo (203 not out off 287 balls), they rattled off an imposing 507 for five declared in their lone turn at the crease. 

Jangoo got to 133 by the end of day two as he brought up his second First-Class hundred. And in tandem with allrounder Terrance Hinds (100 not out off 195), he knocked the stuffing out of the Leewards bowling attack in an unbeaten 253-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Just after the lunch interval on day three, both men got to landmarks, as Jangoo brought up his second double hundred at the regional level, while Hinds got to his second First-Class century, both of which have come against the Leewards. 

With the respective milestones out of the way, the Red Force declared, allowing their bowlers to do the rest. By the tea break, the Leewards were on 37 for three, as pacers Anderson Phillip (two for 18) and Jayden Seales (one for 16) tore through the top order with ease. Skipper Justin Greaves (56 not out off 128) was the only batsman to put up any real fight as the hosts were skittled out for 98 late in the final session. 

Trinidad and Tobago Red Force batsmen Amir Jangoo (left) and Terrance Hinds put the Leeward Islands Hurricanes bowlers to the sword in their West Indies Four-Day Championship match. Photo courtesy Cricket West Indies media

Just like they did in the first innings, spinners Khary Pierre (four for 37) and Bryan Charles (two for 15) accounted for six scalps, with Charles dismissing last-man Oshane Thomas (duck), who was cruelly left on an island by his skipper. Perhaps Greaves' mind and body were tired, as he was the only recognised batsman to score in double figures. The other player to score in double digits was lanky number ten batsman Daniel Doram, who struck two fours in an innings of 16. 

The Leewards post-mortem will be an interesting one then, as they must dust themselves off for part two of their battle with the Red Force, which bowls off at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, Antigua, on April 19. 

Red Force left-hander Amir Jangoo delivered a masterclass, notching his second double-century at the regional level. 

Summarised Scores: 

LEWARD ISLANDS HURRICANES: 138 (Jahmar Hamilton 44, Jewel Andrew 27; Bryan Charles 3/9, Khary Pierre 3/34) & 98 (Justin Greaves 56 not out, Daniel Doram 16; K Pierre 4/37, B Charles 2/15) vs TT RED FORCE: 507/5 declared (Amir Jangoo 203 not out, Terrance Hinds 100 not out; Oshane Thomas 3/98, J Greaves 1/64). Red Force won by an innings and 271 runs. 

Briggs: We're all soldiers fighting for the cause

Trinidad and Tobago women's football team coach Damian Briggs said his players are all fully committed to the cause as they count down the days to their pivotal Concacaf W Qualifier against El Salvador at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo on April 17. 

Briggs' charges began a residential training camp yesterday, and the coach reckons the time spent together off the pitch can forge an unbreakable bond as TT go into the must-win match. 

"The closer you can get off the pitch, the better for when you're on the pitch," Briggs told TT Football Association (TTFA) Media. "We're all soldiers, and we're all fighting for the same cause, and everyone is willing to die for someone." 

Trinidad and Tobago women's football team coach Damian Briggs talks to TTFA Media. 

            

Briggs may sound a bit extreme, but the situation is a do-or-die one for TT, who are second in group F on four points heading into the final group match. With only the group winner advancing to the Concacaf W Championship and keeping their 2027 Fifa Women's World Cup dreams alive, TT must defeat group leaders El Salvador (six points) to progress.

He said time away from the intense action allows his players to open up to each other, talk about their families, and share some of the things that bring them joy outside of football. When the game kicks off from 6 pm on April 17, though, Briggs knows it's all about business.

TT have made as many as five changes from the squad which went to Honduras and earned a comeback 2-2 draw last month, with midfielder Asha James among those back in the mix. TT will be without French-based left back Kedie Johnson, who scored a first-half penalty in the draw with Honduras. And though Johnson is unavailable, Briggs believes he has found the right formula by adding sufficient depth to the squad.

"For this one, we thought we just wanted to keep building on what we had. We looked across our bench and we wanted to have as strong a bench as we could have our starting XI," he said. "We had some new faces to look at and we then decided and chose the ones who fit in best with how we play and the style we want to play." 

Trinidad and Tobago left back Kedie Johnson (right) calmly passes her penalty into the net during her team's Concacaf W Qualifier against Honduras on March 4. Photo courtesy TTFA

                        
James is no stranger to the TT setup, but has been in and out of the squad in recent months due to issues with team management. James aside, the players drafted into the squad are central midfielder Summer Arjoon, 19-year-old attacking midfielder Sonia Lamarre, defender Sakiah Williams and striker Nia Hislop, the daughter of TT goalkeeping legend Shaka Hislop.

Briggs said the players want to be part of making history on this World Cup journey, and he asked the TT faithful to come out in their numbers for the team's only home game in this qualifying round.

"I think the girls have worked really hard during the campaign. They want to make the country and their families proud," Briggs said. "That 12th man. It's important to us because they give that energy, lift, and that boost. Them being there will make it more memorable for the players and everyone once we cross the line."

Regular tickets for the uncovered section are priced at $60, while there are two-for-one uncovered section tickets for $100. Tickets for the covered section are priced at $120. Gates open at 5 pm.

Tickets are on sale nationwide for Trinidad and Tobago's Concacaf W Qualifier against El Salvador on April 17.

'Grateful' Asha returns to national setup for Concacaf qualifier

Playmaker Asha James has returned to the Trinidad and Tobago women's football setup for their crucial Concacaf W Qualifier against El Salvador at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo on April 17. 

The 26-year-old James has been included in a 23-member squad selected by head coach Damian Briggs and is in line to play her first match for the national team since their opening qualifier away to Barbados on December 1, 2025. Over the past year or so, James has been quite vocal about issues concerning the national team, even calling out the TT Football Association (TTFA) for its perceived lack of preparedness ahead of these qualifiers. 

James stepped away from the team before their qualifier away to Honduras last month, but the Tobago-born player is back and ready to make an impact for the must-win clash with El Salvador. 

"I'm grateful for the opportunity to be back with the national team for our final group match against El Salvador," James said. 

TT women's team midfielder Asha James. Photo courtesy James' Facebook page 

"We understand what's on the line, and there's a strong belief within the squad that we can get the job done and finish top of the group to move on in the World Cup qualifiers," the talented midfielder said. "It won't be easy, but we're ready for the battle." 

James aside, Briggs has drafted in four other players for next week's match, as Summer Arjoon, Nia Hislop, Sonia Lamarre, and California State University defender Sakiah Williams have also been included in the squad. Arjoon is a tidy, ball-playing central midfielder. Hislop is a forward at the University of Massachusetts and the daughter of legendary TT goalkeeper Shaka Hislop, while the 19-year-old Lamarre impressed for TT's under-20 unit at the Jewels of the Caribbean tournament in December. 

While Briggs will be happy to have the services of James once again, France-based left back Kedie Johnson will be a big miss to the squad. The impressive flanker has been ruled out after failing to recover from a concussion she suffered while playing with AS Saint-Etienne. Saudi Arabia-based midfielder Maria-Frances Serrant remains a high-profile absentee. Among the team's regulars are veteran forward Kennya Cordner, Liana Hinds, Aaliyah Prince, Victoria Swift, and teenage star Nikita Gosine, who rescued a 2-2 draw for TT against Honduras with a late penalty. 

TT women's football team coach Damian Briggs (C) speaks to the media at the launch of his team's Concacaf W Qualifier against El Salvador. The launch was held at SIP on the Ave, Ariapita Avenue, on April 2. Photo courtesy TTFA

The task for Briggs' team is a straightforward one, as they must defeat group F leaders El Salvador (six points) in order to advance to the Concacaf W Championship, the final qualifying tourney for the 2027 Fifa Women's World Cup. TT are second in the four-team group on four points. El Salvador blanked Honduras 3-0 in their first match, before hammering Barbados 13-0 last month. Meanwhile, TT opened their campaign with a 5-0 victory over the Bajans, before earning a comeback draw against Honduras to stay alive in the qualifiers. 

As he takes his team into a camp this weekend, Briggs cuts a confident figure. 

"We've selected what we believe is the best possible squad at this time," Briggs told TTFA Media. "There are a few additions who will bring added depth, along with some experienced players returning to the group." 

The match will kick off at 6 pm on April 17, with gates open from 5 pm. Uncovered tickets are priced at $60 (single) and $100 (two-on-one special), with covered tickets priced at $120. 

TT women's team for Concacaf W Qualifier with El Salvador: 

Goalkeepers: Malaika Dedier, Simone Eligon, Akyla Walcott. 

Defenders: Kaitlyn Darwent, Javanah Moreno, Emma Schneider, Myla Schneider, Cicely Spencer Wickham, Victoria Swift, Christa Waterman, Sakiah Williams. 

Midfielders: Summer Arjoon, Ariana Borneo, Elise Franco, Nikita Gosine, Liana Hinds, Asha James, Sonia Lamarre.  

Forwards: Alexcia Ali, Kennya Cordner, Nia Hislop, Aaliyah Prince, Gabrielle Williams. 

TT women's football team squad for the Concacaf W Qualifier against El Salvador on April 17. Photo courtesy TTFA

Rio Cardines signs contract extension with Crystal Palace

Trinidad and Tobago men's team full-back Rio Cardines has signed a contract extension with English Premier League club Crystal Palace. The extension was confirmed earlier today by Palace, with the 19-year-old Cardines now having a deal which runs until June 2028. 

The Stevenage-born Cardines has been a regular in the red, white, and black since featuring for coach Shawn Cooper's national under-17 team in 2023. He then went on to represent TT at the under-20 level before making his senior team debut in the Unity Cup in May 2025 under former coach Dwight Yorke. 

Trinidad and Tobago defender Rio Cardines proudly holds his Crystal Palace jersey aloft. Photo courtesy Crystal Palace

The feisty Palace right back played all three matches at the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup, and played the first four matches for TT in the final round of qualifying towards the 2026 Fifa World Cup. More recently, Cardines turned out for TT at the Fifa Series in Uzbekistan last month, as interim coach Derek King's team lost to both Venezuela and Gabon. In the latter match against Gabon, Cardines played a hand in the two goals scored by captain Levi Garcia with a pair of delightful set pieces. Both Cardines and Garcia, however, missed from the spot as Gabon won 3-2 via a penalty shootout after a 2-2 stalemate in regulation time. 

Rio Cardines lines up a set piece against Gabon in their Fifa Series encounter on March 30. Photo courtesy TTFA

Having joined Palace at 16 in 2022, Cardines signed his professional contract with the London-based club in 2024. He made 20 appearances for Palace's under-21 team in the 2024/25 season, with his long-awaited first-team debut coming in October 2025 in a UEFA Conference League clash away to Dynamo Kyiv. Cardines is yet to feature in the Premier League for Palace, but did make a substitute appearance against league holders Liverpool in an EFL Cup match back in October. 

Cardines is delighted to extend his contract with Palace as he hunts for more playing time with the first team. 

"I'm proud and excited to extend my contract here. I'm looking forward to the future and hopefully getting more first-team minutes and continuing to kick on," Cardines said. 

Meanwhile, the club's academy director, Gary Issott, said Cardines has gone from strength to strength and he expects him to continue making strides beyond the current campaign. 

'Zum Zum' punishes sloppy AC, bags another TTPFL hat-trick

For the second time in a fortnight, Trinidad and Tobago men's under-20 football captain Derrel "Zum Zum" Garcia netted a hat-trick at the Phase 2 La Horquetta recreation ground to lead his San Juan Jabloteh team to victory in the TT Premier Football League (TTPFL). 

On March 6, Garcia opened his account for the season with a treble in a 5-0 win over 1976 FC Phoenix. Last night, the 19-year-old Garcia was at it again, as he netted a 14-minute hat-trick in the second half and took advantage of some calamitous defending by AC Port of Spain. The scores were tied at 1-1 at the half, with Garcia's second-half burst helping the sixth-placed Jabloteh (33 points) to a facile 4-1 win over the fifth-placed AC PoS (37 points). 

Funny enough, Garcia was involved in all five goals in the match, as both teams showed a fair level of generosity. In the fifth minute, it was a loose touch from Garcia, which led to the opener for AC PoS, as the youngster cheaply gave away possession in his own half with a heavy first touch. AC PoS worked the ball out right before midfielder Anthony Charles dug out a cross from the byline for flanker Josiah Wilson to slap in at the back stick. 

Just three minutes later, Jabloteh were back on level terms as Andell Fraser cut in on his right foot just inside the area to unleash a devious shot into the top corner and past Marvin Phillip after being picked out by Garcia. 

San Juan Jabloteh's Derrel "Zum Zum" Garcia (left) gives AC Port of Spain's Josiah Wilson the slip during a TTPFL match last season. Photo courtesy TTPFL

Not taking anything away from Garcia's hat-trick, but it's unlikely that he'll score three easier goals for the length of his TTPFL career. For his sake, hopefully, the TTPFL is a stepping stone for bigger things. 

Garcia's first came in the 64th minute as AC PoS central defender Robert Primus played a needless pass into his own box after cutting out a run from winger Jaheim Faustin. Garcia took some time to size up Phillip before passing a right footer a few inches to the keeper's left. 

If the first AC PoS mistake wasn't enough, Charles laid the ball on a platter for Garcia in the 76th minute as he tried to find a teammate with a blind back pass. The goal could be deemed as a breakdown in structure and communication from AC PoS, as left back Jelani Peters and the left centre back Primus were both pushed up in the opposition's half for a right-side throw. With Charles being pressed inside the opposition half, he played a pass where he expected a teammate to be. With the other centre back, Daneil Cyrus, also a couple of steps into the Jabloteh half, Charles' pass turned out to be perfect for Garcia, who slotted away to Phillip's right this time. 

Derrel "Zum Zum" Garcia (left) is congratulated by national under-20 teammate Phillip Nelson during a friendly earlier this year. Photo courtesy TTFA

Garcia's hat-trick came in the 78th minute, and on this occasion, he was assisted by somebody in green, Caden Trestrail. Again, AC PoS kept a relatively high line, which Trestrail and Garcia exploited as the latter rounded Phillip to slide into the net and put the exclamation point on the result. 

From 8 pm today, the second-placed Club Sando (45 points) can stall Defence Force's possible victory lap for another match day if they defeat Caledonia AIA in their matchup at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva. The Army/Coast Guard combination lead the 12-team table with 49 points and have the solitary match left in the league season. Meanwhile, Sando have two matches left and can enter the final match day with their title aspirations still intact if they can get a win over the ninth-placed "Cale." 

Should Sando taste defeat today, the Army will be crowned TTPFL tier one champions for the third time in four seasons. 

Jereem starts Trinidad and Tobago's campaign at World Indoors

Former World Indoor 400-metre champ Jereem Richards will speed off this country's campaign at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland when he faces the starter in heat one of the men's 400m event from 6.56 am (TT time) tomorrow (March 20). 

The 32-year-old Richards will line up in lane six, with Slovenia's Lovro Mesec Kosir in lane three, Portugal's Ericsson Tavares in lane four, and Brazil's Matheus Lima in lane five. There will be six 400m heats in all, with the first two in each heat automatically moving onto the semifinals. The next four-fastest runners from the heats will also progress to the semis. Ranked number six in the world, Richards' season's best of 45.56 seconds is only bettered by Lima (45.54) in heat one.  

Of course, at last year's World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan, Richards claimed silver in the 400m final in a national record time of 43.72, just dipping below the 43.78 time he clocked to finish an agonising fourth at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Fondly known as "The Dream," the Point Fortin native will certainly be visualising more success on the horizon. 

Trinidad and Tobago track and field stars Keshorn Walcott and Jereem Richards show off their respective 2025 World Athletics Championships gold and silver medals at a welcome reception at the Piarco International Airport on September 22, 2025. 

The 400m semis will run off at 3.44 pm (TT time) tomorrow, with the final set for 1.34 pm (TT time) on March 21. 

Richards will not be the only Trinidad and Tobago athlete in action on the opening day of competition, as 21-year-old Nathan Cumberbatch will line up in heat four of the men's 800m event from 8.42 am (TT time) tomorrow. A total of six 800m heats will be contested, with the top two in each heat moving directly to the semis. The six next-fastest runners will also progress to the semis, which will run off from 8.08 am (TT time) on March 21. 

Also on March 21, rising sprint queen Leah Bertrand will face the starter in the women's 60m heats, which speed off from 6.05 am (TT time). Meanwhile, from 5.20 am (TT time) on March 22, Tyra Gittens-Spotsville will contest the women's long jump final. 

The Trinidad and Tobago contingent at the 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Poland. Photo courtesy NAAATT's Facebook page 

Army lose to Sando, TTPFL lead cut to one point

TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) holders Defence Force (46 points) saw their lead atop the 2025/26 standings cut to one point tonight, as they lost 2-1 to the second-placed Club Sando (45 points) at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Mucurapo. 

With a victory, the Army/Coast Guard combination would have lifted the TTPFL tier one trophy with two games to spare. However, coach Devorn Jorsling's team never really hit top gear against Sando, with their performance instead mirroring their display in a 1-0 loss to Miscellaneous Police FC on the weekend. 

Ultimately, two defensive blunders from two experienced heads proved to be Defence Force's demise on the night, as the pair of Isaiah Garcia and Sheldon Bateau were culpable for the goals conceded. Starting the game in an unfamiliar centre back role, Garcia cheaply gave away possession in the third minute, before compounding the matter by clumsily bringing down the speedy Tarik Lee in the penalty area. Sando central midfielder Luke Phillips, arguably the best player on the night, calmly placed his left-footed penalty past goalkeeper Isaiah Williams to give Sando the 1-0 lead. 

In the 29th minute, it was Lee's turn to profit from an error, as he picked off a loose clearance from Bateau, who tried to deal with a lofted ball from Sando skipper Shervohnez Hamilton. Lee made no mistake with the gift and easily shot the ball past Williams and into the bottom corner. 

Club Sando central midfielder Luke Phillips celebrates his team's opening goal against Defence Force on March 18. Photo courtesy Club Sando's Instagram page

Bateau's woes didn't end there, as the central defender was shown a straight red by referee Andrew Samuel in the 85th minute for a dangerous high challenge near the half-line. At that stage, it was all hands on deck for Defence Force, who had received a lifeline deep into first-half stoppage-time from attacker Kathon St Hillaire. 

With his team desperately looking for answers and some inspiration, St Hillaire poked past goalie Teshorne Ragoo from close range after midfielder Justin Sadoo picked him out with a pass which just eluded a lunging Elton John. It was one of the rare moments Defence Force got behind an otherwise stubborn Sando backline. 

The Army did have their chances to get an equaliser, particularly in the early stages of the second half, but St Hillaire, neither the playmaking pair of Joevin Jones and Kevin Molino could find the magic touch their team needed. At the other end, Williams was doing his best to keep his team in the match, as he palmed away a firm drive from Phillips, while also cutting out a dangerous, low cross from Hamilton. Before Bateau was sent for an early shower, he too played his part in keeping Sando at bay as he put in an acrobatic block to stop a volley from Hamilton in the 68th minute. 

Club Sando land a big TTPFL victory over Defence Force. 

With the ten-man Army knowing that a draw would keep them four points ahead of Sando, they threw bodies forward. In the seventh minute of second-half stoppage-time, a window of opportunity appeared to be opening for substitute Tyrese Bailey at the back stick, but the ever-present Phillips made a brilliant challenge before the former could get his shot away. 

In the first game of the Hasely Crawford double-header, Prisons FC (41 points) moved up to third on the 12-team table when they came from behind to beat San Juan Jabloteh (30 points) 2-1. 

On March 20, Defence Force will hope to put their untimely skid to bed when they play Eagles. Meanwhile, on March 21, Club Sando will tackle Caledonia AIA as they aim to keep their own title aspirations alive. 

Trinidad and Tobago netballers eager to defend Jean Pierre crown

Trinidad and Tobago's under-16 netball team are ready to pull out all the stops in defence of their Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament title when the 2026 edition of the competition jumps off from April 11-17 at UWI Spec in St Augustine. 

Last April, the team coached by Sojourner Hyles-Lewis and assistant Simone Morgan secured the title for the first time when they went unbeaten in the tourney, which was held in Barbados. TT's Shian Lewis, who's also a national middle-distance runner at the junior level, copped the MVP award, with teammate Makayla Grant earning the most accurate shooter honour. 

Members of Trinidad and Tobago's under-16 netball team strike a pose. File photo courtesy Netball TT

The 22nd edition of the Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball Tournament is expected to be a bumper one, with the hosts, TT, welcoming Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, and St Lucia for a week of nonstop action. 

A Netball TT release said, "Fans can expect a week of exciting and competitive netball as teams battle for regional supremacy while showcasing the next generation of Caribbean netball talent." 

Trinidad and Tobago's Makayla Grant (L) in action against Grenada at the 2025 Jean Pierre Caribbean Youth Netball  Tournament. Photo courtesy Akil Pegus

Senegal stripped of AFCON title; set to appeal to CAS

After Senegal were stripped of their 2025/26 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title courtesy of a bombshell ruling by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on March 17, the Senegalese Football Federation (SFF) has indicated its desire to take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). 

In its ruling, the CAF Appeal Board found the Senegal team guilty of breaching Articles 82 and 84 of the Regulations of the CAF AFCON, thus seeing their initial 1-0 victory over Morocco on January 18 being overturned to a 3-0 result in the Moroccans' favour. 

Photo courtesy Confederation of African Football

Article 82 reads, "If, for any reason whatsoever, a team withdraws from the competition or does not report for a match, or refuses to play or leaves the ground before the regular end of the match without the authorisation of the referee, it shall be considered looser (sic) and shall be eliminated for good from the current competition."

Article 84 cemented the ruling for the Appeal Board. Article 84 says, "The team which contravenes the provisions of articles 82 and 83 shall be eliminated for good from the competition. This team will lose its match by 3-0 unless the opponent has scored a more advantageous result at the time when the match was interrupted; in this case, this score will be maintained." 

The SFF doesn't plan to go down without a fight, though, and late on March 17, it signalled its intentions to tackle the matter head-on. 

"The Senegalese Football Federation denounces an unfair, unprecedented, and unacceptable decision that discredits African football," an SFF release said. 

"To defend its rights and the interests of Senegalese football, the federation will initiate, as soon as possible, an appeal procedure before the Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne." 

The SFF said it remains committed to upholding the values and integrity of sporting justice. 

 A snapshot of Articles 82-84 of the Regulations of the Africa Cup of Nations. 

In an AFCON final which was tense and heated at times, the Senegalese felt aggrieved when a late goal from star forward Ismaila Sarr was disallowed for an infringement. With the scores goalless deep into second-half stoppage-time, the Moroccans were awarded a penalty after a VAR review, with defender El Hadji Malick Diouf adjudged to have fouled in the area. Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was livid, and he ordered his players off the field in protest. Goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and most of the Senegal players even headed back to the dressing room, with veteran forward Sadio Mane imploring his teammates to return to the playing field. 

After a delay of over 15 minutes, the Senegal players returned. The lanky Mendy had the easiest of tasks as he saved a tame "Panenka" effort from Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz. Senegal's elation then soared through the roof in the 94th minute, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive extra-time goal. 

Roughly eight weeks later, the Senegalese are now learning the true ramifications of their actions, with CAF effectively awarding the trophy to Morocco. 

The CAF Appeal Board confirmed that the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) was fined up to US$ 160,000 for some of the actions of their team and supporters in the controversial final. A US$ 50,000 fine was imposed on the FRMF for the conduct of their ball boys, a US$ 100,000 fine was imposed on the Moroccans for interference in the VAR review area, while a US$ 10,000 fine was imposed for a laser incident during the match. 

King: We were naive against Bolivia

Trinidad and Tobago men's football team interim coach Derek King admitted that his team was naive in their friendly clash with Bolivia on March 15, and felt three mistakes eventually cost them the game in a 3-0 loss at the Ramon Tahuichi Aguilera Stadium, Santa Cruz de la Sierra. 

TT were under the pump early in the friendly, which fell outside the Fifa international match window, with goalkeeper Jabari Brice making at least three saves before the deadlock was eventually broken in the 23rd minute with a header from Bolivia captain Luis Haquin. With the visitors facing incessant pressure in the first half, the busy Juan Godoy made it 2-0 in the 38th minute, before Fernando Nava scored the home team's third in the 51st minute. 

A bit too late: Trinidad and Tobago goalkeeper Jabari Brice retrieves the ball in vain after Bolivia netted the opening goal in their March 15 friendly. Photos courtesy TTFA

TT set up defensively in what resembled a 5-3-2 shape, with the centre back trio of Darnell Hospedales, Alvin Jones, and Jesse Williams having to deal with numerous crosses in the area. In midfield, the pair of Shervohnez Hamilton and captain Andre Rampersad found the going tough and struggled to connect with playmaker Joevin Jones to give TT any semblance of control. 

When his team did have the ball, King felt they weren't brave enough. 

"In the first half, we were a bit naive. In the sense that we didn't put down the football and play," King said, at the post-match presser.

"I told the guys that Bolivia at home will always be difficult, a team that's preparing to play their playoff game (to try and qualify for the World Cup). For the first 20 minutes, I told them we had to stay in the game." 

King said the first goal was a soft one to concede, but he appeared to cut his team some slack due to the inexperience of some of the players at this level. 

Trinidad and Tobago's Alvin Jones (L) and Shervohnez Hamilton try to contain Bolivia forward Juan Godoy. 

"All in all, I think the guys did well. It's a very young team we brought here. You want to win all the games, but it's a really young team. Five players made their debuts today as well. We saw some positives in the game coming from the younger players," he said. 

The five players to debut for the visitors on the day were: Brice; Elijah Cordner; Jaheim Faustin; Addae Paponette, and 18-year-old defender Adam "Toka" Pierre, who had a relatively decent showing at centre back after coming on late in the first half. Brice and Paponette both started. Paponette was a non-factor in a striking role as TT rarely got into promising positions in the final third, with Brice arguably being one of the reasons why the score wasn't more lopsided. 

The newcomers aside, it's not to say the TT starting XI was lacking experience. Brothers Alvin and Joevin Jones have over 160 caps between them, while the trio of Ross Russell Jr, Ryan Telfer, and Rampersad all have north of 20 caps for the national team. 

Trinidad and Tobago men's team interim coach Derek King gives instructions to debutant Addae Paponette (L) during the friendly against Bolivia. 

After being appointed as the team's interim coach on March 6, King said he had just three days to prepare the team for the friendly. And though the scoreline may not reflect such, he maintained that the outing wasn't an exercise in futility. 

"I think we came up against a well-prepared team. Players playing with professional clubs, especially in the Bolivian league," the interim coach said. "What you saw there were guys playing at the international level for the first time. This was a good game for us to expose the younger players and show them the physical demands of international football. 

"They did well. We have plenty to work on. As I told them, when you make a mistake, it will cost you. We made three mistakes, and they cost us the game as well." 

It remains to be seen how many players will be retained for TT's upcoming games in the Fifa Series against Venezuela and Gabon on March 27 and 30, respectively. 

Rampersad to captain Trinidad and Tobago vs Bolivia; King urges discipline

Halifax Wanderers central midfielder Andre Rampersad will captain Trinidad and Tobago's men's national football team when they play Bolivia in a friendly at the Ramon Tahuichi Aguilera Stadium in Santa Cruz de la Sierra on March 15. The TT Football Association (TTFA) has advised that the game will now kick off at 4 pm (TT time) and not the previously scheduled 6.30 pm kickoff. 

With as many as eight players receiving their first-time call-ups to the TT team, and interim coach Derek King including three players from the under-20 team, the 31-year-old Rampersad is expected to be a driving force on the field, having become a regular in the setup over the last few years. Ramersad has made 30 appearances for TT since debuting in a Concacaf Nations League match in March 2023. Since then, he has been a mainstay in the midfield alongside Daniel Phillips. 

"Andre has been one of the most consistent players for TT. I think with his experience playing abroad, he brings that leadership quality to the younger players," King said of Rampersad, whom he coached in his days at FC Santa Rosa in the then-TT Super League. 

TT midfielder Andre Rampersad (second from left) during a training session in Bolivia. Rampersad will captain the team for the March 15 friendly versus the Bolivians. Photos courtesy TTFA

While King sees the game as an opportunity for many of the younger players to wet their feet at the international level outside an official Fifa window, the contest comes at a critical time for Bolivia as they continue the fine-tuning ahead of their Fifa intercontinental playoff with Suriname on March 26. Should Bolivia get past Suriname and navigate the subsequent playoff with Iraq, they will take their place at this year's World Cup. 

"It's important to see if these younger players could match up and take instructions, which is the key. It's just to get them going and have them following the instructions from the coaches," King told TTFA Media. 

On TT's last visit to Bolivia in January 2022, the team, which was then coached by Angus Eve, suffered a 5-0 loss. Defender Alvin Jones and Ramersad's Halifax teammate Ryan Telfer are two survivors from that squad. 

Regardless of what the circumstances may be, King wants his players to maintain their focus and seize the moments when they come their way. 

At the helm: TT men's football team interim coach Derek King

"Playing against a Bolivia team at home is always a challenge. It's a very strong and experienced team as well...I think with this young squad, we have the potential. It's to give the youths that experience. As I told them, we have to be disciplined in this game. We have to go out there and really keep the discipline, keep the shape, and be brave." 

He said it's important for his team to avoid mistakes, as they can prove detrimental at the international level. 

"Ball speed and discipline are very important. Once we get our chances as well, we can create chances and score goals as well."  

After the Bolivia match, TT are expected to have a strengthened team for the Fifa Series, which falls in the Fifa international window. The matches in the Fifa Series will be played against Venezuela and Gabon on March 27 and 30, respectively. 

Caprietta, 'Toka' hunt playing time in Bolivia

National under-20 defenders Jaydon Caprietta, 17, and Adam "Toka" Pierre, 18, are both eager to get their feet wet at the senior international level as the Trinidad and Tobago men's football team prepare for their friendly away to Bolivia on March 15. The game will be played at the Ramon Tahuichi Aguilera Stadium, Santa Cruz, with kickoff at 6.30 pm (TT time). 

TT men's under-20 defender Adam "Toka" Pierre goes through his paces during a training session with the senior team earlier this week. Photos courtesy TTFA Media

Caprietta, an adventurous left back, was one of the bright sparks in the TT under-20 team's Concacaf qualifying campaign in Costa Rica from February 24-March 4, even scoring in TT's thumping 5-1 win over Barbados. Meanwhile, Pierre was relatively solid at the back for TT, often using his recovery speed and sheer grit to out fires which threatened to break down the TT defence. Despite good individual showings from both players, TT finished third in group E behind Costa Rica and Bermuda and did not advance to the Concacaf Under-20 Championships. 

Both players are taking the lessons from their time in Alajuela, Costa Rica, and are hoping to get a chance to show their mettle in Bolivia. 

"In Bolivia, my mindset is one of focus. I don't know when I will be called upon, but I will always be ready. I expect the game to be hard. Hopefully, I can pick up a couple of minutes. But if I don't, I'd still be grateful for this opportunity," Caprietta told TT Football Association (TTFA) Media, in a video which was shared on March 13. 

TT men's under-20 left back Jaydon Caprietta reacts after scoring against Barbados in a Concacaf Under-20 qualifier last month. 

The Naparima College student, who patterns his game after Portugal and PSG left back Nuno Mendes, says representing his country at the highest level has always been a dream. 

"Since I was younger, I always wanted to be a part of this, so seeing former coach Dwight Yorke and the team almost qualifying for the World Cup, it really excited me, and I want to be part of this." 

And while he said the opportunity to play at the national senior level has come a bit sooner than he expected, Caprietta is locked in and loaded for this new chapter of his career. 

Seemingly a man of few words, Pierre does most of his talking on the football field with his no-nonsense and physical presence at the back. Already with some TT Premier Football League appearances under his belt for a few clubs, Pierre is ready for this next challenge. 

"I feel good being part of this generation for the 2030 World Cup," Pierre said. "It's good being here, and I'm looking to get some minutes. I know it's going to be difficult because there are experienced players. So I'm just going and do my part.

"When I leave Boiliva, I'll continue to develop as a young player. I'm hoping to pick up everything possible while in this camp," Pierre said. "I have some familiar players around me and some new faces. Hopefully, they can pass on the experience to me." 

Caprietta and Pierre are among eight players who have received first-time call-ups. The others are: Jaheim Faustin; Kaieem Lewis; Addae Paponette; goalie Teshorne Ragoo, and the young European-based pair of Elijah Cordner and James Lester. San Juan Jabloteh attacking midfielders Derrel Garcia and Lindell Sween are among the other bright, young prospects in the camp.

Interim coach Derek King has boasted of a good mix of youth and experience in the squad, with players such as Alvin Jones, Joevin Jones, Ross Russell Jr and the Halifax Wanderers pair of Andre Rampersad and Ryand Telfer expected to add much-needed experience to the setup.  

After playing Bolivia, TT will play Venezuela and Gabon in the Fifa Series on March 27 and 30, respectively. 

TT team to face Bolivia: 

Goalkeepers: Jabari Brice, Teshorne Ragoo, Jabari St Hillaire. 

Defenders: Alvin Jones, Jaydon Caprietta, Isaiah Garcia, Shervohnez Hamilton, Darnell Hospedales, James Lester, Adam Pierre, Ross Russell Jr, Jesse Williams. 

Midfielders: Elijah Cordner, Daniel David, Jaheim Faustin, Derrel Garcia, Joevin Jones, Andre Rampersad, Lindell Sween. 

Forwards: Kaieem Lewis, Addae Paponette, Kathon St Hillaire, Ryan Telfer. 

TTPFL golden boot race heats up

This weekend is expected to be an intriguing one in the 2025/26 TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) season, as the top four teams will be squaring off against each other. 

Holders and current leaders, Defence Force (46 points), will take on third-placed rivals Miscellaneous Police FC (36 points) from 4 pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar, on March 15. Meanwhile, the second-placed Club Sando (42 points) are expected to have their hands full when they take on the fourth-placed Prisons FC (35 points) from 8 pm at the Ato Boldon Stadium, Couva, tomorrow (March 14). 

Tarik Lee (number 9) is the man to watch in the Club Sando attack. Photo courtesy Club Sando

While the top four teams and the fifth-placed AC Port of Spain (34 points) are still jostling for Concacaf spots, another race is brewing as the TTPFL's golden boot charge is well and truly on. The league's leading goals scorer, Joevin Jones (11 goals), is away to Bolivia on international duty with the Trinidad and Tobago men's national team. Jones' absence could leave the door open for a new player to soar to the top of the scoring charts, as the trio of Teejay Cadiz, Dominic Douglas, and Tarik Lee are all tied on ten goals. 

From 6 pm today at the Phase 2 La Horquetta recreation grounds, Douglas' Eagles team will take on AC PoS. Meanwhile, when Lee's Club Sando take on Prisons tomorrow, the nippy striker will be hoping to help his team reverse their 1-0 loss to Dexter Cyrus' Prisons outfit earlier this season. 

A look at the TT Premier Football League's top scorers heading into match 19

And in an early 2 pm kickoff in Malabar on March 15, Cadiz will be looking to inspire the ninth-placed 1976 FC Phoenix team when they take on the inconsistent Central FC Reboot, who find themselves in seventh place with 24 points. Phoenix have conceded the joint-highest number of goals this season (48), while Central will be without some key players such as Daniel David, Alvin Jones, Ross Russell Jr, and goalie Jabari Brice. All four have been called up by interim coach Derek King for TT's friendly with Bolivia on March 15. With that being said, expect goals to flow in the first game of the Malabar double-header this weekend. 

Do you have any picks for the golden boot winner? 

This is how the TTPFL top five is shaping up with just four games to go.