Caribbean Sports Network

STRIKER Devon Jorsling has sent a warning to his Defence Force teammates, as well as his opponents, that he will be aspiring for both the Digicel Pro League Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Golden Boot (Top Goal Scorer) awards. Jorsling has been in the reckoning for both prizes, in 2008 and 2009, but this time the 25-year-old has made it clear that he will be claiming both trophies after the 2010-2011 season.

“I think this would be my season,” he said in a recent interview. “I want them both, the Player of the Year award and the Golden Boot in the process.”

Jorsling registered a double in Defence Force’s 3-0 win against Police on Saturday afternoon at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo in their opening 2010-2011 Pro League match.

“The result is very important, starting off the season with a win,” he continued, “and it’s always a great feeling when I score.”

Jorsling scored on either side of the half while Kevon Carter separated his teammate’s double with a second-half item.

Jorsling explained that Defence Force is capable of doing very well this season.

“Other teams are always changing their squads, but we have been together as a team for a few seasons now. We have gelled well and are capable of great things this season.”

Coach Ross Russell shares the same belief. “My team is more or less meshing together quicker. I already know my players from last year and that’s going to work for us this season.”

Russell believes his side should have won by a wider margin on Saturday against the lawmen. However he praised the performance adding, “It’s really important to start with a win and stay with the so-called top teams.

“I’m also pleased to see our forwards start with good form, this is because of the work we have been putting in during pre-season.”

Defence Force will challenge W Connection on Saturday from 4pm at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Arima.

“W Connection will be a true test, no disrespect to Police,” said Jorsling, “but once we go out and get full points against them on Saturday, then it will really say what we are this season.”

Meantime Russell is quietly optimistic ahead of Saturday’s encounter.

“We don’t ever take W Connection lightly,” said the former national goalkeeper. “They have always given us good competition and getting three points from them will always be a test. But once we get the three points this weekend, it will be a warning to other so-called top teams.”