Manders moves to new Canadian club

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Taurean Manders has been successful in his hunt for a new club after joining Canadian Soccer League (CSL) outfit York Region Shooters.

The tough tackler admitted he was relieved to sign a deal with the Shooters, having been left in limbo following his former team Capital City’s withdrawal from the league.

Despite having an impressive debut season, finishing runners-up the CSL final, City decided to pull out of the CSL earlier this year due to concerns about the league’s long-term vision.

Manders, who moved to City 12 months ago, said the Shooters were the “best option” available to him and was looking forward to building on his encouraging debut CSL season.

“The way things have developed over the last couple of weeks made it clear that I should choose York Region Shooters,” said the ex-North Village utility man.

“Given the situation, they were the best option at the time as I only had a short while to find a team. It’s been a long off-season for me and I’m just happy to be back playing.”

The Bermuda international hopes to be given clearance to play in this weekend’s game against Montreal Impact Academy, having missed his team’s curtain raiser against Brantford Galaxy.

Logan Alexander, Manders’ former Village team-mate, made his debut for Galaxy in that game, which finished 1-0 to the Shooters.

“I’m hoping everything is straightened out by the weekend so I can be available. It should be fine, but you never know what happens,” said Manders, who was a virtual ever-present for City last campaign.

Settling into a new dressing room hasn’t been a problem for the well-travelled 25-year-old, who is expected to be named in Bermuda’s Caribbean Cup squad this summer.

He said: “The guys from the team remember me from last season and have been welcoming, so that makes it easier to settle in.

“I have been travelling and living in different places since I was 17, so settling into a new area isn’t much of a problem for me.

“York have a good team and did well last season, losing in the semi-finals last season to the eventual winners (Toronto Croatia). So, I think it will be a good season if we can play to the level I think we can.”

Shooters play their home games at the St Joan of Arc Turf Field in Maple, Ontario. The team’s colours are blue and white, mirroring those of the Italian national football team and reflecting the cultural heritage of the club.

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