REIMS, France — Following consultations with team doctor Lori-Ann Miller, Reggae Girlz head coach Hue Menzies made four changes to the starting line-up for today’s crucial Fifa Women’s World Cup Group C contest against Italy.  

The game is scheduled for 6:00 pm (11:00 am Jamaica time) at Stade Auguste-Delaune.

Menzies and his assistants Lorne Donaldson and Andrew Price agreed to switch from the customary 4-3-3 to 4-2-2 with usual starters right back Dominique Bond-Flasza and midfielder Marlo Sweatman set to miss out after the 0-3 defeat to Brazil in the opening contest.

Sydney Schneider will start in goal, shadowed by captain Konya Plummer, Allyson Swaby and Deneisha Blackwood, with Sashana Campbell taking up the right full back position, replacing Bond-Flasza. 

Havana Solaun and Chantelle Swaby retained their position in the midfield and will be joined by young Olufolasade Adamolekun and Chinyelu Asher on the flanks.

The prolific Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw will be joined up top by Mireya Grey who replaces Cheyna Matthews who is under observation with a groin injury.

Brazil continue to head the group with a better goal difference over Italy and Australia, while the pointless Reggae Girlz are at the foot of the standing. 

The Girlz, who had a motivational video chat with the incomparable Usain Bolt on Thursday night as well as former Reggae Boy Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardener, require a positive result today in order to keep their hopes of progressing alive.

— Sherdon Cowan