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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands; Wednesday, November 12, 2008 - For the first time in its history, the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) was able to enter two Under 20 Girls teams into the Women's Football League (WFL). This is a tremendous achievement when one considers that only last year – 2007, there were just eight female players under the age of twenty playing in the league. That number is now up to forty and, there are many players diligently waiting in the wings eager for an opportunity to get involved.
On Saturday November 8th, WFL's AFC Academy "A" and "B" squads squared off. And as always, its was going to be a one sided affair. With most of the "A" team soon to become members of next year's U20 World Cup Qualifying team - their technical skill and tactical awareness was far superior to the enthusiasm of their inexperienced opponents.
The "A" team was able to score at will and, demonstrated that their passing game will be hard to beat this season; winning the game at 22 –0. Angel Campbell, age 11, without doubt the most gifted player for her age in the country, top scored with 5 goals - whilst Emmanuella Meneide and Jacinda Alfrena, in her first league game - scored hat-tricks. Ancie Bernadin, Sarah Cenary and Christina Hinds added two each, with Pekiera Brooks, Amelie Speer, Ema Meneide, Christina Jean and Scatilene (Chucky) Gedeon rounded off the scoring.
Despite the score line, the "B" team did not lose heart, as they were well aware that this season was about learning the game. Bianca Baptiste worked hard to lead her team, and youngsters like Maya Swarbrick and Kadine Delphine, both age 11, showed that the team has potential. Nevertheless, with the discovery of Tatiana Noel as a goalkeeper, will no doubt keep Amelie Speer on her toes.
Coach Billy Forbes addressed his "B" team after the game, and his comments were very encouraging. Although this will be a hard season for the "B" team, it is more than likely that several of their players will make the National Team next year, which is one of their main goals. The "A" team, however, will face stiffer opposition when they take on Grace Bay FC in two weeks time.
MVP – AFC Academy "A" – Jacinda Alfrena
AFC Academy "B" – Tatiana Noel
For information on up-coming matches, kindly contact Matthew Green, TCIFA's Technical Director on (649) 232-1860.
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