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Gilbert: Managing players will be key
December 24, 2024
Kimani Arbouine scored the only goal of the game as Arnett Gardens edged Dunbeholden 1-0 in their Jamaica Premier League football match on Sunday at Dunbeholden playing field.
Arbouine took his tally for the season to seven goals, just one behind Kimoni Bailey of Mount Pleasant and teammate Warner Brown on eight goals each.
However, the winger did not last the full 90 minutes, as he was pulled after 40 minutes due to an injury.
Coach Xavier Gilbert said although it was possible for the player to continue, he didn't want to take any risks, especially with the JPL fixtures due to get even busier in January.
"He (Arbouine) is suffering from a hamstring injury that he has been carrying and we just didn't want him to get hurt anymore, especially in this festive period and leading up to January, February when we will play two games per week," he said.
"It's important that we manage the players as best as possible, and we didn't want to take any chances with him and aggravate his injury," he explained.
"This is going to be a tough period to play, the festive period. But we are going to do our best to manage the players, manage the games and the circumstances. We just have to recover well," he continued.
In their previous match, Arnett Gardens FC had dropped points for the first time in seven matches, and Gilbert was happy for his team to get back in the win column at Dunbeholden.
The result kept Gilbert's team one point adrift Mount Pleasant in second place, and although it wasn't the most ideal performance he was pleased they were still able to get the three points and stay among the front runners.
"I am happy that we got three points. The conditions weren't ideal but we managed to grind out the result, and that's the most important thing. When things are not going as best as it can and you manage to get three points, it's good.
"But I am happy we got the three points to start the second round. We are still in second place and I am happy we are still among the top two. So glad for the three points and to be back in the win column."
