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Girlz ready for ‘high-calibre’ test
June 03, 2025
Reggae Girlz assistant coach Deon Burton said the players are well prepared for their massive test against the United States (US) in today's international friendly, which is set to kick off at 7 p.m. Jamaica time at the Energizer Park stadium in St Louis, Missouri.
The Reggae Girlz are set to take on the four-time World champions, with Burton confident the team can put on a competitive display.
"The team is looking well. Obviously we've done the best that we can to prepare them in the time that we've had," he explained.
"I think a lot of information and hard work has gone in so it's credit to the Girlz in this short period, so we're looking forward to the game."
Burton will be taking charge at the game in the absence of head coach Hubert Busby, who the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) confirmed will be absent due to personal reasons.
Speaking ahead of the match, Burton explained that the match stands an important test for the national programme as the Girlz have been taking on several high-calibre opponents in their previous outings
Since June last year, the Girlz have taken on Brazil, France, South Africa, Peru and Mexico in international friendlies.
With a pending date against England later this month, Burton said it speaks well of the programme's growth and their ability to attract strong opponents.
"The calibre of opposition that we have been playing recently shows that one, we're privileged to be able to play them and be asked to play them in certain situations, but also to be able to put our wits against top-quality opponents and it will only make us better."
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Allyson Swaby, one of the team's more experienced players, said she is ready for the challenge ahead.
Aware that the US will enter the fixture as favourites, Swaby is not deterred and said the game will bring great experience for when the team faces strong opponents in international competition.
"It think ultimately as a high-level player, you always want to have the opportunity to test yourself against the strongest oppositions," she said.
"I think for us, it is just about using this as an opportunity to build and to be prepared for major tournaments when we will face world-class calibre oppositions."
Swaby is expected to lead Jamaica's defence and the centre back will be flanked by other experienced defenders, including Konya Plummer, Vyan Sampson and Allyson's sister Chantelle Swaby.
Leading the attack will be Jody Brown, Tiffany Cameron, Shaniel Hayles and Kayla McKenna.
