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Hayward: Promotion just start for St George’s

On the right track: Jarreau Hayward, the St George’s coach, is hoping his side can beat Devonshire Colts to the title

Jarreau Hayward, the St George’s coach, is delighted his club have gained promotion but admits there is room for growth as they seek to establish themselves as a force in the top flight.

St George’s clinched promotion to the Premier Division without having to kick a ball after Vasco da Gama beat Flanagan’s Onions 3-0 in a make-up match at Bernard Park last week.

“We are really happy and proud as an organisation and as a team to be restored to the Premier League,” Hayward said.

“We are really happy but are not satisfied. We know the work is just beginning and we have to improve still. We are just going to take it step it by step.

“Promotion is just one of several other steps that we have to take, and there were steps we had to take before that as well to get to this point, so we are just remaining focused.”

Asked what has been the key behind his team’s promotion success, Hayward replied: “The work of former coaches, the organisation and the players themselves who have come with a new level of focus this season.

“It’s a good blend of youth and experience and everyone just really wanted to tune in and achieve our potential. Credit is due to the players, for sure, to the organisation and to our fans as well because they have contributed to the culture and been patient with us along the way.”

St George’s previously played in the Premier Division in 2014-15, with their 1995-96 Friendship Trophy glory their crowning moment in the top flight.

With promotion secured, the East Enders will look to make further inroads towards winning the First Division when they host leaders Devonshire Colts at Wellington Oval on Saturday.

Colts clinched the second promotion spot and leapfrogged St George’s into top spot on goal difference courtesy of a 4-0 win away to Young Men’s Social Club at the weekend.

“We knew going into the season that Colts would be one of the main rivals for the title,” Hayward added. “It’s not the be all end all as far as the league is concerned. We want to get a win if we can so we are going to prepare well. It’s a big game and I’m sure both teams will be ready.”

Colts are aiming for their second piece of silverware this season, having won the First Division Shield after a 4-1 win over Onions in the New Year’s Day final at Somerset Cricket Club.