Guyanese women finish 2nd in tri-nation hockey series

Guyana were comfortably positioned in the top spot after the first round of play; however, Trinidad had different plans going into the game at the Sir Garfield Sobers Sports Complex at Wildey.

After a 1-0 loss to Guyana in the first round of play, Trinidad returned with a vengeance and determination to beat the Guyanese women.
The twin-island team got off to a rocket start against an unsteady Guyanese team as an early unforced error resulted in a Trinidad field goal by striker Brianna Gouvia just four minutes into the match.
Trinidad later capitalised on Guyana’s inability to regain their composure by netting a second goal thanks to Felicia King’s penalty corner in the 25th minute. In a flash, another goal came two minutes later off of Britney Hingh’s stick.
The second half of the encounter saw an improved performance from the Guyanese team. With more organised plays and increased possession, Guyana executed a swift right side attack that found striker Princessa Wilkie, who was able to elude the final Trinidadian defender and secure a goal for the team in the 49th minute. However, Guyana were unable to find the back of the net again; the match ending with a 3-1 victory for Trinidad.
Guyana then entered their final match in the blistering Sunday morning heat against hosts Barbados with whom they drew 1-1 in the opening round.
Team Guyana seemed more relaxed and confident as the game began with accurate passes, better ball control, and a solid defensive structure. The game was a very physical one and the teams were evenly matched with some amount of frustration showing in both sides.
In the 40th minute of play, a penalty stroke was awarded to Guyana owing to a careless desperation tackle by the Bajans’ full back in the scoring circle. Former national captain Trisha Woodroffe stepped up to the challenge and sent a hard flat push to the left side of the goal, beating the Bajan keeper and putting Guyana at a 1-0 advantage.
In a twist of fate with just a few seconds remaining in the match-up, the Bajans secured a penalty corner against Guyana. Barbados would save themselves from defeat as the goalmouth scramble that ensued saw the ball squeeze past eventual goalkeeper of the tournament, Alysa Xavier, ending the game at a 1-1 draw.
Trinidad eventually finished in first place with Guyana securing second. The three Caribbean teams will be pooled together in the upcoming Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, which are scheduled for July 20-August 3.