GLASGOW, Scotland – Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls got off to a winning start at the Commonwealth Games by thoroughly trouncing neighbours Trinidad and Tobago 81-22 here on Saturday.
Jamaica’s Sunshine Girls got off to a winning start at the Commonwealth GamesJamaica dominated Trinidad and Tobago from the opening whistle, racing to a commanding 24-5 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Veteran goal shooter Romelda Aiken-George led the way in the opening half with 27 goals, while goal attack Shanice Beckford added 16 as the Sunshine Girls carried a comfortable 42-12 advantage into the half-time break.
Head coach Sasher-Gaye Henry-Wright made several changes at the start of the third quarter, introducing debutant Azara Wilmot at goal shooter in place of Aiken-George, while Rhea Dixon replaced Beckford at goal attack.
The changes had little effect on Jamaica’s dominance as the Sunshine Girls outscored T&T 18-8 in the third quarter to extend their lead to 60-20 heading into the final period.
Wilmot enjoyed an outstanding second-half performance, finishing with a game-high 33 goals from 41 attempts, while Dixon made an immediate impact by converting all 11 of her attempts.
Henry-Wright said while she was impressed with the team’s performance, she expects a much sterner challenge against former World Champions New Zealand, who they face in their next match.
“We are always excited to play against New Zealand because we know that we are ready to match up against the top teams in the world.
“…Today (Saturday) was just a test to see how we will manage the ladies in terms of the rotations and combinations, and so we are looking forward to game two against New Zealand,” Henry-Wright said.
“However, it is going to be a real tough game for us because they started very well in their opening game, but it is also going to be a tough test for them as well, but I think that the team that makes the least turnovers and converts their centre passes will come out on top.”
