Reggae Warriors searching for percentage point improvements ahead of RLWC
Jamaica took advantage of the postponement of RLWC2021 to play two very important games against England Knights and Scotland. Lead Coach (UK), Jermaine Coleman recognises the importance of the games but also the time spent with his squad in camp.
Speaking a few days after game with Scotland, Jermaine summed up the importance of the programme saying, “I think these games and the camp are massively important, I don’t think we can put a value on us meeting and spending time together. The togetherness and bond the time creates is immense and it plays a huge part in our journey. Playing the games gives us time and an advantage on those teams who haven’t managed to do that.
Jamaica suffered a 56 points to 4 defeat to a young and very talented England Knights team who were all working to push their way into the full squad for the World Cup. Then followed up with a thrilling 30 points each draw with Scotland. Coach Coleman is realistic in his assessment of both games, “England had a younger team and they are all full-time players, all desperate to put a marker down themselves for the World Cup. Although the result got away from us it gave us a taste of the kind of intensity and levels we need to get too.
“The Scotland game we knew would be a more evenly contested game. We showed great character and resilience to pull ourselves back into the game and to be honest we were disappointed we didn’t come out on the right side of the result.”
The whole programme of two games and a camp was designed to prepare the squad for an assault on the World Cup. The plan is to meet as a coaching staff along with the senior players to complete and assessment of all aspects and to make the adjustments that will deliver the few extra percentage points in performance that will bring success for their country and make their families proud.
“At the World Cup you will see a group of players who wear their heart on their sleeve. You will see a group willing to work so hard for each other and working to do the country, the badge and their families proud. We will be a group who take the opposition on and challenge them in every aspect of the game.
“I don’t have the words to describe how it feels to work with the group. It’s a privilege I never take for granted. We learn more and grow closer as a team, as group each time and already I know each player and staff member is looking forward to the next one.”
If trophies were awarded for pride, passion and preparation, Jamaica would be on the podium every year.
