Former champions St George’s College and Hydel High will go head-to-head in this afternoon’s top-of-the-table clash in their quarter-final round match in Group Two of the ISSA/Digicel Manning Manning Cup at the Richard Ashenheim Stadium at Jamaica College.

Match time is 4:30 pm.

In the opening match of the double-header in Group One, Mona will entertain St Catherine two hours prior.

In another game in Group Two at the Stadium East field, defending champions Jamaica College (JC) and winless Tivoli Gardens High will face each other at 2:30 pm. Kingston College and St Andrew Technical High School (STATHS) will clash in the second match of the double-header at 4:30 pm.

STATHS currently lead the group with three points, followed by Mona and KC with one point each, and Tivoli on nought.

Both St George’s College and Hydel have been in exceptional form this season, displaying a brand of football that has been electrifying, and effective. St George’s College, with as rich history and tradition in the Manning Cup, are coming off a 2-0 victory over Tivoli Gardens in their opening match on Saturday.

The North Street-based institution, one of the preseason favocrites for this year’s title, has demonstrated dominance on the pitch thanks to a disciplined defence and a midfield that controls the game’s tempo with precise passing.

Marcel Gayle, assistant coach at St George’s College, expressed confidence in his team’s abilities, but acknowledged the challenge posed by Hydel.

“We are approaching this game with a lot of confidence, but we know that Hydel is a strong team,” Gayle stated. “We have been improving with each game this season, so we need to be clinical in front of goal, which will be key for us against Hydel.”

St George’s College will heavily rely on their leading scorer Brian Burkett, who has netted 18 goals this season. He is expected to receive support from Adrian Reid Jr, Matthew Spence, and Xavier Taylor.

On the other hand, Hydel have emerged as one of the main contenders for the title this season, showcasing an excellent brand of attacking football and strong defending. They are coming off a stunning 1-0 victory over JC in their opening game on Saturday.

Hydel Coach Devon Anderson said: “The ball is round, and we are going there to play our game. That victory against JC on Saturday has given us a lot of confidence, but the kids are grounded, knowing that St George’s is a former champion and we are not taking them lightly.

“We are going to show our respect, but we are going to play our football game, and at the end of the 90 minutes, I am hoping that we will come out on top.”

Hydel will rest their hopes in the hands of Ronaldo Barrett, D’Sean Henry, Kialand Smith, DonTae Brooks and Michael Forbes to lead their charge to victory.