Hyde, Bernard hoping for Caribbean Cup classic
Published:Wednesday | August 23, 2023 | 12:12 AMLivingston Scott/Gleaner Writer
TWO-TIME CHAMPIONS Harbour View take on Dunbeholden FC, who get their first taste of international club competition, in Group B of the Concacaf Caribbean Cup game at Sabina Park today at 5 p.m.
Harbour View coach Ludlow Bernard said although preparation has not been the best, he believes he has a competitive team that can better his opponents on the day.
He noted that Dunbeholden have changed much and it will be difficult to know what to expect from this version of the debutants.
“It is certainly a pleasure to be participating in this competition. Harbour View have a rich history in participation and we have the coveted title. But this competition is very important because it brings out the best players locally,” he said.
“Preparation has not been the best but we have tried to make the best of it. We have galvanised a unit that will be very competitive and we are certainly coming for the three points.”
Bernard has a lot of respect for his counterpart, Lenworth Hyde, and he anticipates a stern test.
“In Dunbeholden, we have a very formidable opponent. The last time we met they beat us 1-0, so I think we are developing that type of rivalry. We expect it to be a close contest because they have some very good players. But we have players who want to win and show that they are amongst the best in the country. So we are coming all out to thwart any challenges Dunbeholden may bring to us.”
Hyde said although Dunbeholden are going up against a more experienced team at this level, their intention is to come out with a good result.
“For the game, we are just going to put our best foot forward and try the things we have learned so far and see how well we can implement them in the game.
“It’s a big challenge. They have a good coach. They are an experienced team. But we played them in the Premier League last year and did well against them.
“The teams know each other. It is just for them to be disciplined and match up with them and try to outplay them and get the good result,” he said.
Hyde has been in charge of the St Catherine outfit for a little more than a month and preparation has been good, he declared.
The club has also acquired a few players to strengthen the various departments, and Hyde said they are learning his style and improving every day and he expects his players to represent well.
“It is coming along, but it is going to take time for the chemistry to build. But they are learning and improving day by day.
“I am looking for a good match. The games will be aired all over the Caribbean and the diaspora and the players look forward to it. So it is for them to go out and show their class and what they are learning and try and get a good result,” Hyde contended.
He added that: “I know the Dunbeholden spectators will be out and Harbour View will have their fans, but we want all the people to come out and see some good football and create a good atmosphere.”