Willis still a doubt for Arnett ahead of Club Shield final

WHEN ARNETT Gardens take to the field today in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Club Shield final against Grenades FC, they could be without key player Chavany Willis, who picked up an injury in their run to the final.

Willis has been an important cog in the Arnett Gardens machinery that has been powering through the competition so far.

With his accurate passes, combined with his ability to smoothly transition from the midfield to the defence, he has been a suitable partner for Jamone Shepherd, who he has partnered with to control the midfield battle for the Junglists.

However, he was forced off the field in the quarterfinals against Jong Holland due to an ankle injury.

Willis, when initially asked about the injury, was optimistic about his chances of making a return in time for their semifinal fixture against Atletico Pantoja.

“I’m not sure as yet but I’m going to go to the physio and check out what happened to my ankle and then you might see me in the next game if it’s not too bad,” he said.

However, it was not meant to be for the midfielder, who was a no-show as Arnett edged Atletico Pantoja 2-1 due to late heroics from captain Fabian Reid.

Arnett will be hoping Willis can make a return in time for the final. However, head coach Xavier Gilbert cautioned against rushing the recovery process.

Gilbert said the first priority will be Willis’ health and insisted he will not take any unnecessary risks with his player.

“We’ll continue to assess him but we have to look long term,” he said.

“We don’t want to rush him and further aggravate the injury or make it worse. So the medical team will continue to assess him and we’ll determine whether or not he is to play.”

Arnett will face Grenades FC of St Lucia, who booked their spot following a 1-0 win over Dublanc FC of Dominica.

Grenades will draw confidence heading into the game after defeating defending champions SV Robinhood of Suriname 2-1 in the quarterfinals.

The final is set for the Stadion Rignaal ‘Jean’ Francisca at 7 p.m.