JC hit-man sets big target

He is expected to lead Jamaica College this season, but while Shaneil Thomas has not started the season with the bang that most ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup followers were anticipating, the 17-year-old forward says that he is satisfied with his contribution and will deliver when he is most needed.

"You know I am a big-game player, you know that. When the big-game time comes around, you can expect to see me on the scoresheet," Thomas declared after his team's 8-0 win over Kingston High, a game in which he scored a goal.

But the player, who has set his sights on 30 goals this season, has, so, far netted four in five games.

"The start of the Manning Cup has been good so far. I have been getting better every match, and it's a good look for the team. I am satisfied ... I don't want to end any game without a goal, so as long as I am on the scoresheet and the team wins, I am alright with that," he said.

Like Junior Flemming before him, Thomas won and starred in the Manning Cup as a 16-year-old, and many expect him to continue the Old Hope Road school's dominance in the competition, and he is aware of the responsibilities on his shoulders.

"I am the main player in the team this season, so I have to work hard more than any other player on the team and ensure the job gets done. I want to help the team win all three titles again, and I know I will have to score in the big games to make that happen," he said.