Green Machine target Barbados upset in crucial RAN Tier 2 showdown

Guyana’s National Men’s Rugby team, the Green Machine, will be aiming to secure its first victory of the 2026 Rugby Americas North (RAN) Tier Two campaign when it faces Barbados on Saturday at the Garrison Savannah in Bridgetown.
The encounter also presents an opportunity for Guyana to avenge a heavy 43-5 defeat suffered against the same opponents one year ago as the team looks to revive its regional campaign following a narrow 9-5 loss to Bermuda in its opening match on April 25 at the National Park in Georgetown.

The Guyanese squad began its journey to Barbados on Wednesday, with part of the team arriving in Bridgetown during the morning while the remainder was scheduled to travel later in the evening.
Speaking with Guyana Times Sport ahead of the fixture, Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) President Ryan Gonsalves expressed confidence in the team’s chances despite a disrupted preparation period.
Gonsalves revealed that injuries forced several changes to the original squad, including the loss of scrum half Osei McKenzie, who suffered a hamstring injury. However, he believes the return of experienced campaigners Tyrese Prescod and Kevin Braithwaite has strengthened the side.
“We had a few changes due to injuries, but we have some experienced guys coming back on board. Tyrese Prescod and Kevin Braithwaite have played for Guyana regularly, so we are happy to have them onboard for this important game,” Gonsalves said.
Preparations were hampered by persistent rainfall and lighting issues at the national rugby field in the National Park, limiting the team’s ability to conduct full evening training sessions.
According to Gonsalves, the rugby field remained waterlogged for much of the past three weeks, forcing players and coaches to adapt their programme. Training sessions were shifted to higher ground, including the athletics track, to ensure the squad maintained its fitness and conditioning.
Despite the challenges, Gonsalves said the players remain focused and confident heading into the match.
“We put in the work, the coaches put in the work, and the players just have to stick to the game plan. Once they stick to the structure, I don’t see why we can’t win. I am 100 per cent confident that we are going to Barbados and win this game,” he stated.
While optimistic, the GRFU President acknowledged that Barbados will provide a stern test, noting the hosts have enjoyed strong performances in both the fifteens and sevens formats over the past two years.
“Barbados is no walkover. They have had a good year or two in both fifteens and sevens, so we are not taking that for granted. It is about putting everything together, taking opportunities and winning this game. For us, it is very important,” Gonsalves added.
Leading Guyana’s challenge will be Captain Rondel McArthur, supported by Makaya Smith, Osbert Robinson, Christian Klass, James Osbourne, Shawn David, Lionel Holder, Phibian Joseph, Vallon Adams, Jamal Junor, Godfrey Broomes, Tyrese Prescod, Owen Adonis, Godfrey Pollydore, Rickford Cummings, Gavin McPherson, Michael Edwards, Akino James, Odida Douglas, Sebastian Manifile, Renaldo Niles, Kevin Braithwaite, and Julius Jardim.