Bad a yard - STATHS put three-year home record on the line

St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) will put their three-year unbeaten home record on the line today when they face Papine in their opening match in Group A of the ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup at Bumper Hall.

In fact, STATHS, who was beaten by Jamaica College in last year final on penalties, have not lost to Papine in over 20 years in the Manning Cup competition.

The Phillip Williams-coached STATHS defeated Papine twice in the competition last season and will be looking to continue that streak as they get their campaign off the ground today.

"We certainly intend to maintain this winning record," said Williams.

"We are definitely going for the three points (but) we are not going to be taking Papine lightly, as they are improving. I think they did well last year and so we just have to prepare ourselves to play a tough match," he said.

"It is a first game for most of my players because it is a pretty young squad and I think they will be a little nervous. I know that they are silently confident and they are ready and raring to go," Williams noted.

STATHS, who are seeking their first hold on the title since 1987, will be relying heavily on the likes of Anthony Nelson, Tyrese Smith, Jenuin Pinnock and Trey Salmon to lead their charge to victory.

In the group's other games, Cedar Grove will oppose St George's College and Cumberland host Tarrant.

Meanwhile, in Group B, one of the big favourites for the title Kingston College (KC), who last won the Manning Cup 1986, will host Dunoon Technical in their opening encounter.

The Ludlow Bernard-coached KC, who were beaten by STATHS in last year's semi-finals, have retained eight starters from last season.

In the group's other games, Calabar will oppose Mona and Ardenne tackle Clan Carthy.

In Group E, Excelsior play Oberlin, St Catherine host St Mary's College and Haile Selassie is at home to Penwood.

TODAY'S GAMES:

Group A

STATHS vs Papine

Cedar Grove vs STGC

Cumberland vs Tarrant

Group B

KC vs Dunoon

Calabar vs Mona

Ardenne vs Clan Carthy

Group E

Excelsior vs Oberlin

St Catherine vs St Mary's College

Haile Selassie vs Penwood

* Home teams named first. All matches start at 3:30 p.m.