Benna Boys urge fans to rally behind team for CNL opener

By Neto Baptiste

The Antigua and Barbuda senior men’s football team is calling for strong support in the stands when it opens its Concacaf Nations League (CNL) campaign on 23 September at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.

Midfielder Daryl Massicott, one of three players appealing for public support, said having Antigua and Barbuda’s backing in the stands could make the difference between winning and losing.

“They are one of the reasons that we win the game and still not win the game if you know what I mean, so it would be really, really good if we get the support from everyone in Antigua,” he said.

The Benna Boys will open their Nations League campaign against Aruba on 23 September, followed by a meeting with Anguilla three days later. They will face Anguilla again on 1 October before completing the group stage against Aruba on 6 October.

Defender Blaivon James wants the support in the stands to mirror that given to the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons during their recent CPL home matches at the same venue.

“Home advantage is always a big thing and, as you can see with the Falcons, how we’re doing, you know, believe now, man. So we’re going to need a lot of support,” he said.

Meanwhile, Keyonte George, one of four national under-20 players in the squad, told the Good Morning Jojo sports show that he will be playing at home for the first time and wants to feel the energy of the Antiguan public inside the stadium.

“It would mean a lot if everyone came out and watched me play because it’s a good feeling having your own country behind you, watching you play and supporting you in every way. So I’d say it’s a very good thing to come out and watch,” he said.

The squad is coached by Jacques Passy, assisted by Grenades FC head coach Derrick Edwards and Pigotts Bullets coach Donavan Peart.