SVG’s men challenge Barbados in RAN 15s Championships

Twenty- three Rugby players, along with two officials are part of a St Vincent and the Grenadines Rugby Union contingent that will be part of the Rugby Americas North Championships(RAN) in Barbados this Saturday May 18, 2024.

The players selected are Tijani Rey, Naud Peters, Benson Nanton, Leonardo Caine, Kevin Cain, Dimitri Samuel, Dugal James, Mark Cordice, Basid Cassano Delpesche, Adrian Sam, Jaiden Da Silva, Paul Kirby, Sydroy Bentick, Kyle Matthews, Cornelius John, Derron Hoyte, Justin Tittle, Kemi Francois, Dellon Durrant, Kenmore Horne, Richard Morris, Brian Alexander, Klyvert Browne and Jessu Raguette.

The head coach is Recardo Dallaway, with Trinidadian Wayne Pantor, who is conducting the development of a National Sports Structure with the Rugby Union, providing his expertise as well.

Brain Alexander, who is also part of the team, doubles up as manager.

The St Vincent and the Grenadines outfit will meet the hosts from 3:00 p.m this Saturday at The Garrison.

While history is against the Vincentians in head to head clashes in the 15s format, head coach Dallaway believes history can be rewritten.

“ We have not beaten them (Barbados) now for a long time in 15s, although we have matched them in the 7s format, but we have a blend of experienced players and youthful, energetic players who are eager to prove themselves at the senior level”, Dallaway said optimistically.

The national 15s head coach, thus, is banking on the speed of the forwards, and the experience in the back, to reverse their fortunes.

The next duel of the Vincentians in the RAN Championships versus Saint Lucia, is set for June 29, 2024, when they host St Lucia.