How Much More Disappointment

Jamaica crashed out of the U17 World Cup qualifiers at the quarterfinals stages. We went into the lead twice and were pegged back. When the Canadians went ahead we had no answer. We lost 4-2 after being 2-2 at half time.

One of the Jamaican young players based in Spain gave an interview and it spoke volumes of the current state of our football programme and our mindset. He said basically that we (Jamaica) were miles behind the World in our tactical approach to the game.

Jamaica has been to a World Cup of Football and I honestly think that its time we move from the 'also ran' category at this time. It is obvious that its tactics and a lack of concentration that is continually letting down our teams.

Another school of thought is that some of the power nations in football have players going fully pro at even 16 and 17 years of age (and even younger). Their ascension to the heights of football will continually outpace us then if we can't get our players seriously thinking about this game early in their life and foster the transition from youth to senior football. Furthermore, if our coaches can't develop the mental fortitude and capacity to handle ever changing scenarios and strategies this will continually be very frustrating for the supporting public.

Right now I don't want to hear about resources, if this is going to be a continuous excuse or wild card, don't send any teams to these tournaments then.

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© 2013 Antonio Bell. All rights reserved

Disclaimer

All the commentary posted in this publication are my personal view(s) and do not reflect the view(s) of any Association, Federation or Governing Body.