ARNETT Gardens will be seeking revenge after booking their second appearance in the final of the Jamaica Women’s Premier League against Frazsiers Whip, and Head Coach Garnett Lawrence — respectfully but not fearful on his opponents — says he knows exactly what to expect in the title showdown.

Arnett Gardens lost the 2024 final to Frazsiers Whip 0-9, so even after dispatching Los Perfectos 8-3 on aggregate, Coach Lawrence is well aware that a much sterner test awaits him and his team.

The “Junglists” owed their second-leg victory to a three-timer from Shirika Douglas (2nd, 18th, 31st) who powered them to their 5-1 victory on Saturday at the UWi-JFF Captain Horace Burrell Centre of Excellence, following up on their 3-2 win from the first leg a week earlier.

Tuanashae Hamilton (71) and Tasheka Reid (86th) completed the rout. Veteran Tanesia Vassell scored a consolation for Los Perfectos in the 51st minute.

Lawrence thought it was a strong performance from his team ahead of the final which will be played on Saturday, May 30 at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex.

“The performance was a strong statement from the team to come away with a 5-1 win and an 8-3 aggregate against Los Perfectos. It shows not just quality, but consistency over both legs,” Lawrence told the Jamaica Observer.

“The players executed the game plan well — there was discipline defensively, sharpness in attack, and a real sense of purpose in how we approached the match. It wasn’t just about winning on the day, it was about controlling the tie — and the team did that professionally.

“Reaching the final is a big moment for us. It reflects the work the group has been putting in, the growth we’ve shown, and the belief within the squad. But, at the same time, we understand that the job isn’t finished. Finals are a different challenge, and we have to stay focused and grounded,” said Lawrence.

He continued: “Facing Frazsiers Whip, the defending champions, we know exactly what’s ahead. They’ve set the standard in this competition so for us, it’s an opportunity to test ourselves against the best. Our chances will come down to preparation, discipline, and how well we execute on the day. If we bring the same intensity, togetherness, and tactical focus that we’ve shown so far then we’ll give ourselves a real opportunity to compete and try to dethrone them.

“We respect them, but we don’t fear them. The team is motivated, and we’re going into the final ready to give everything.”

Meanwhile, head coach of Los Perfectos Ricky Martin said it was a disappointing result, crashing out to Arnett Gardens and not making the final.

“I’m still proud of the effort from the players. We lost our captain [Venicia Reid] within the first 15 minutes of the game, which was a major setback, especially with such a young squad. Despite that, the players continued to fight and showed great character throughout the match,” Martin reasoned.

“Overall, when you look at the season I believe the players gave a very good account of themselves. We have a lot of young players who gained valuable experience this season, and the growth of the team was clear to see. It’s important to note that the only teams we lost to this season were the two teams that reached the final, which shows how competitive we were throughout the campaign,” said Martin.

LAWRENCE…facing Frazsiers Whip, the defending champions, we know exactly what’s ahead. They’ve set the standard in this competition (Photo: Naphtali Junior)