The spate of consecutive defeats in the Digicel Premier League, which now number five, has seemingly passed the worrying stage for Sporting Central Academy hierarchy and even their fiercest competitors.

Last week, after watching Kevin Lamey inflict their fourth defeat, Waterhouse coach Geoffrey Maxwell walked across to stand-in coach Nigel Stewart and, instead of the customary handshake gesture at the end of each game, took him aside, offering advice in hushed tones.

Andrew Price, after shouting "five straight" from the touchline in an apparent quest to get his team to hold on to a 2-1 lead, walked towards the Sporting bench after Sunday's game, hugged Donovan Duckie and could be overheard urging him, "keep working hard, keep working hard till it come".

Sympathies run deep but even the fans have started to show their frustration, as less than 200 turned up for Sunday's match-up against Boys' Town.

"I understand how they feel," club owner Brandon Murray told The Gleaner. "If I were them, then it would be hard for me to keep coming to the game and seeing the same thing over and over again."

Similarly, Duckie, who has coached at St Georges FC and Portmore United, appeared at pains to explain the sudden turn of form earned after Sporting nine points from their first five games.

Reflection

"I wish everyone would come and watch us play as the results (losses) are not a reflection of how we play. I have never coached at a club or a national team that creates so many chances, but so many go abegging."

With the second round as well as the transfer window imminent, the former national Under-20 coach hinted at the acquisition of new players and tactical approach.

"They are an attacking team by nature, so we have to bring some defensive players to provide a balance. Also, these are young players so part of the problem is psychological, so they are going to need the support of the fans to push them on. I say, support them, now is not the time to leave them out."

- R. B.