Central thrilled after Charity Shield success

At the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva, Central FC defeated Defence Force 3-1, courtesy kicks from the penalty mark, after the scores were locked at 2-2 at the end of regulation time.

Darren Mitchell and Kenwyne Jones netted for Central FC, while veteran players Devorn Jorsling and Sean Narcis replied for Defence Force. However, Williams was the star in the penalty shootout, with a trio of saves to ensure victory for his team.

Saunders noted, “I think it was a very good contest. To give Army credit, I think they did very well. But the better team (won) on the day.” The ex-national midfielder continued, “I want to give credit to the guys. Every title we win is very important and I think they did well. Going forward, we’ll have a psychological advantage over the Army with this title.

The League (2016-2017) has two rounds, it’s who can get out the blocks early and get their heads out early - that’s what we’re trying to do.” Central FC will be back in CONCACAF Champions League action later this month when they visit Vancouver Whitecaps.

“We couldn’t ask for a better game, going into Vancouver,” said Saunders. “We really appreciated this game. I think we’ll do well (in) Vancouver.” Williams marked his return to action, after nursing an injured shoulder, with an inspired performance in the penalty shootout.

“For me it was good,” said Williams.

“Finally getting back out onto the pitch. As I said before, I think I was fit enough before (to play for Trinidad and Tobago against Guatemala and United States respectively) but, unfortunately, it wasn’t to be, with the national team.” Asked what served as his inspiration ahead of Friday’s match, Williams replied, “to be honest, every game I play I want to play to the best of my ability. I want to do my best to help my team, and to win. I’m a winner. It was just business as usual for me.” Williams replaced Javon Sample during the half-time interval and he admitted, “that was the plan before. I think they wanted to try to give everybody as much playing time as possible.” This game was the first league game for national skipper Jones in over a decade and he was elated to get the win and also get on the score-sheet.

“I’m happy that we won the curtain-raiser for the season,” commented the TT team captain.

“I think we gave it away a little bit. (It was) a good performance from Jan-Michael, coming back from an injury. We did well and I’m happy for the win.” Jones is on loan with Central FC until the end of the year, when he joins new American MLS team Atlanta United.

About playing on the local circuit, he said “I’ve done it before, albeit how many years ago, so it’s no different. Its football all the same so it’s just important for me to come and get the games under my belt, get to know the team better and also try to help the team win games.” Concerning his objectives while at Central FC, Jones responded, “to make sure they stay where they were last year. They won the (Pro) League, they’ve been the CFU champions, so it’s to make sure they’re back on top.

And also try to do well in the Champions League. More than anything else, that’s the aim.” He stated that he has fitted in well with his new teammates at Central FC.

“All round I think the level has been great, the vibes has been good. We have ex-national players as coaches. Everyone is learning off of each other and trying to become better. So it doesn’t take me only to lift the standard. I’ll help them on the pitch as well.

It’s only for the betterment of the team.” Jones had sub-par performances for Trinidad and Tobago within the past couple of weeks but he insisted, “I don’t live under pressure. I’ve been in this game for a long time. I know what educated and uneducated fans say. So I don’t live under that pressure.

The only pressure I have is to make sure that my performance is good and I’m able to help the team around me to get the results.”