The ISSA Schoolboys Rural Basketball competition enters an exciting phase today as the under-16 and under-19 semi-finals tip off, with the final four teams gearing up for a shot at the coveted championship titles.
In the under-19 semi-finals, unbeaten defending champions Manchester High host a fiercely competitive Herbert Morrison Technical (HMTHS) in a clash that promises early fireworks in the rural competition at 1:30 p.m.
In their last quarter-final games, Manchester’s under-16 and under-19 teams demolished their opponents York Castle 95-17 and 150-32, respectively.
Levar Rose, coach of HMTHS, said the team needs to display consistency.
“We have to remain focused and ensure we make the necessary adjustments needed to get us to where we want to be which is the finals,” said Rose.
After cruising through the league, HMTHS’ unbeaten record was snapped by Holmwood Technical with a commanding 64-46 win.
Looking to bounce back, HMTHS will need the maturity of top shooter Joshua Ferguson to help give them a fighting chance.
At 3 p.m., Holmwood Technical will face Knox College in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Andre Brown, the coach of Holmwood, said the aim is to remain focused at the task ahead.
“We played Knox twice this season and won both games. The plan is not to be comfortable, and to respect our opponents. We have to be ready defensively and bear in mind that they are a much better team than they were earlier in the season. We cannot take anything for granted,” said Brown.
Holmwood’s Melvin Ragoo will need to bring his A game to help keep their season alive.
“We just have to start the game much stronger than we did against HMTHS, and also finish stronger,” added Brown.
Knox, however, are no pushovers and they will be tough opponents for Holmwood.
TODAY’S MATCHES
Noon: U16 – Manchester vs Knox College
1:30 p.m: U19 – Manchester vs Herbert Morrison
3 p.m: U19 Holmwood vs Knox
All matches will be played at Manchester High
