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NPL set for further delay

Published:Saturday | November 7, 2020 | 12:15 AMDaniel Wheeler/Staff Reporter
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RICKETTS
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WILLIAMS
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GAYLE
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Vere United’s Ray Campbell (left) challenges Stephen Williams of Waterhouse FC during a National Premier League encounter at the Drewsland Stadium on Thursday, September 12, 2019.
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Vere United’s Ray Campbell (left) challenges Stephen Williams of Waterhouse FC during a National Premier League encounter at the Drewsland Stadium on Thursday, September 12, 2019.
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Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) President Michael Ricketts says the National Premier League is unlikely to begin as planned on November 14.

Local football has been inactive for eight months because of the coronavirus pandemic. The proposed start date was dependent on the approval of health protocols sent by the JFF to the Ministry of Health & Wellness. However, the JFF was asked to make changes to the proposed measures, which included protocols for potential centralised venues. While Ricketts said that the measures were resubmitted, the absence of approval from the ministry means that the start date may have to be pushed back.

“We have not yet gotten what is called the ‘no objection document’ from the ministry,” Ricketts told The Gleaner. “It, therefore, means that it is hardly likely that the competition will start in November as was suggested by the clubs. A later date probably would be more likely.”

GETTING CLEARANCE

Ricketts said that the timeline could be moved up depending on when they federation receives clearance, but the new date could be December 6.

“Once we get that document, it could very well be [started earlier], because it all depends on the readiness of the clubs,” he said. “And I am pretty certain that most of them would need some kind of preparation.

“But once we get that document, then we will meet with the clubs, and hopefully, it will be all systems go.”

Tivoli Gardens head coach Philip Williams says he is concerned.

“If and when it’s announced, I think they would still have to give us some time,” Williams said. “I don’t know how long a time they will choose, but I think that we deserve some more time to put some final preparation into place.”

Local football did return somewhat as the Concacaf League round of 16 game between Waterhouse FC and Haitian club Arcahaie FC at Stadium East Field on Thursday marked the first match played in the island since March. Despite the 3-1 defeat, Waterhouse head coach Marcel Gayle says that they were appreciative of the opportunity to play after the long hiatus. He hopes that it would lead to an eventual return to local football.

“We are grateful same way, and [hopefully] this can open up eyes in our country that football can be played,” Gayle said.

daniel.wheeler@gleanerjm.com