Veteran Defence Force wingback Michael Edwards is calling on fans to keep showing support in the club’s struggle to return to a dominant force in Trinidad and Tobago football.
Defence Force, one regarded as the powerhouse of T&T football, have been suffering a slump for the past eight years—their entire Pro League history—winning themselves just one trophy, the FCB [First Citizens Bank] Cup back in 2002.
Coach Anthony Barrington had his chance followed by Coach Kerry Jamerson within the past few years; however the Soldiers inconsistency saw them failing to secure any silverware.
In 2009, a new coach is named and he is former assistant to Jamerson, Ross Russell. The now former Defence Force’s Super League coach is given the task of guiding the team back to supremacy.
Last season was the worst finish for Defence Force in the Pro League—finishing in 8th position—and failing a Big Six place. Their best ever finish in the League was third in 2005. Last season they were close enough to touch the Courts Pro Bowl however finished runners-up to Caledonia AIA.
Will they finish in a much better position this season and with piece of silverware?
Edwards who donned the T&T shirt last year believes Army will rise to higher heights.
“Defence Force is a nice team. A basically young team that has been together for the past two years and now it’s just to get the job done.”
“I think that this year we will ‘shoot-up’. Other teams are always mixing up but we are the same team and it’s just to get a love and togetherness. This year I can see good things happening.”
“I want the League title for the team and myself,” added the 32 year old. “My focus is on my club and capturing the League title this season.”