Masters’ football tournament kicks off with cautions

The 2019 SVG Over 35s Masters Football Tournament kicked off last Saturday at the Victoria Park, and immediately, there were issuing of cautions, not by the referees, but by football officials.

President of the St Vincent and the Grenadines Football Federation Marvin Fraser, implored players to care for one another while they are on the field of play.

Acknowledging that the sport is one that is played with passion, Fraser though called for restrain.

“We understand that no matter what age you are playing, you tend to let your emotions get the better of you … We ask that you look out for each other on the field, because we are not as young as we use to be and cannot cope with the injuries … Please do not try to harm each other,” Fraser advised.

The SVGFF therefore called on the masters’ players, to show true sportsmanship, by first respecting themselves, the match officials, as well as the organisers.

Joining Fraser in his call was president of the SVG Over 35s Masters Organisation Glenroy Caesar.

In his plea, Caesar cautioned players about getting engaged in rough tackles.

“You (are) going into a 50-50 tackle, move out,” Caesar advocated.

Caesar also called on players to respect the match officials.

“Nobody who goes out and puts on an official uniform, tells you that they are Jesus Christ… They will make mistakes,” Caesar commented.

Fourteen teams are vyeing for honours. The teams have been divided in equal distribution of seven per group.

Group A is composed of defending champions Sion Hill, Barrouallie, Richmond Hill, Vintage Gold, Royal Rootz, South Leeward, along with newcomers- Greiggs.

Last year’s runner up- Calliaqua heads up Group B, which has also Bequia, Layou, RSVG Police, SESCO, COMPUTEC Vincy Masters, and new entrant, Largo Height.