The Cayman Islands Women’s National Team started their CONCACAF W Qualifier campaign at home on 27 Nov. with a tough 4-0 defeat against Bermuda, a team ranked significantly higher in the CONCACAF rankings – 14th versus Cayman’s 32nd out of the 41 countries.
The starting Cayman squad comprised of Ericia Burke, Reese Bateson, Brittni Ebanks, Chelsea Brown, Courtney Hicks, Clara De Quintal, Shardaye Powell, Olivia Ridley, Tamoy Phillips, Shanice Monteith and Harper Nelson.
Chelsea Brown led the side as captain until her substitution in the 80th minute, when vice-captain Courtney Hicks assumed the armband.
Cayman’s head coach, Michael Johnson commented on the opening performance, noting, “It was a proud moment for the girls to represent their country once more. For quite a few of them it was their first time at the senior level which is always a difficult task.”
He acknowledged the difference in class, adding, “Bermuda showed their experience and quality throughout the match to control many different moments within the game.”
Despite the result, he says the team’s focus is forward, sharing, “We will look to continue to work hard and try to decrease the overall percentages against this type of opponent.
“The focus is now straight away on the match in March versus Guatemala where we will begin our preparations,” he said.
Other opponents Cayman will have to face during their group C pool play includes Costa Rica and Grenada.
