Munro’s Williams eyes Cup glory

Munro College striker Kajaye Williams is determined to make his final season in the ISSA daCosta Cup a memorable one, and he will have an opportunity to do just that when the round of 16 kicks off today, with his former school standing in his team’s way for a second time this season.

Football fans can look forward to eight intriguing encounters, highlighted by an eagerly anticipated clash between Manning’s School and former champions Munro at the Llandilo Sports Complex in Westmoreland, beginning at 3:15 p.m.

Reflecting on his development as a footballer, Williams spoke highly of his father, who has served as both a coach and one of his biggest motivators.

“I feel good knowing that he has always been there throughout my life. It is a great feeling that he can see and play a role in my development of my football and how I express myself,” said Williams.

Williams’ journey in football began at age four when he attended New Horizon Preparatory School in Westmoreland. He made his daCosta Cup debut while in grade seven and spent six years at Manning’s School before transferring to Munro College.

The 18-year-old, who is enjoying a spectacular season with 17 goals already to his name, told The Gleaner that he is hoping to reach his 20-goal target before the campaign ends.

“I want to score as many goals as I can. My target this season is 20 goals and I’m closing in on that,” said Williams.

Munro entered this season’s daCosta Cup campaign with a renewed sense of purpose, as the team seeks to honour the memory of promising Under-16 player Kamal Reynolds, who drowned before he could make his competition debut.

The centre-forward is confident that Munro can build on its improved performances this season as the team has the work ethic and determination to challenge for the title.

“I expect great things from us. Knowing that we’re here putting in the work. So the expectation is really high. We hope we can go all the way in the competition and win,” said Williams.

Despite his six-year stint at Manning’s, Williams said he has no added pressure heading into the match-up against his former school.

“I feel normal because we have done it already, and know the work that we put in this type of game that everybody wants to come with their A game. It’s going to be a high-intensity game, knowing that everybody is fighting for three points and who will stand tall after the match finishes,” Williams said.

Group A runners-up Munro are the only team to have beaten Group F winners Manning’s this season, securing a 2-1 victory in the round of 16 of the Ben Francis Cup knockout competition.

Manning’s coach Patrick Graham said his team is taking nothing for granted despite its unbeaten run.

“Preparation has been going well. We are thankful to be unbeaten, but we remain grounded. We lost to Munro earlier, so we know they are quality. Training has been intense, the boys are focused and know what is required,” said Graham.

Beyond his ambitions on the football field, Williams said the sport had also shaped his winning mentality and approach to life.

“I am 100 per cent passionate about football because I always want to win. It helps me to develop that winning mentality, and I always give my best in everything that I’m doing,” said Williams.

Today’s games

Ocho Rios vs Cornwall College at Drax Hall Sports Complex

Frome vs Garvey Maceo at Llandilo Sports Complex

Glenmuir vs STETHS at Glenmuir

Manning’s vs Munro at Llandilo Sports Complex

Manchester vs Kemps Hill at Manchester

Denbigh vs Dinthill at Wembley Centre of Excellence

Clarendon vs Lacovia at Clarendon

McGrath vs Central at Dinthill