Guyana’s National Rugby team, the Green Machine, were initially set to do battle with USA South Panthers on July 1 for the Rugby Americas North (RAN) 15s title but due to unforeseen circumstances, the match has possibly been shifted to July 29.
According to a source close to the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU), the extension was given by RAN as the Panthers were not able to secure tickets for the entire team travel to Guyana for initial date.
The source explained the confirmation on the date and possible venue will be made when the Local Organising Committee meets on Friday (June 23).
It was also disclosed by the source that the extension will aid in their preparation and promotion of the event.
The meeting of the teams comes after they defeated Trinidad and Tobago 24-17 to win the South Championship. The prediction was that Guyana would have to travel to Mexico City to play the home side in the North versus South final. Last year Guyana lost lost 32-3 to host Mexico.
However, Mexico suffered a 39-17 loss to Cayman Islands on Saturday, which meant that USA South topped their group. It is understood that Panthers had 11 points compared to Mexico and Cayman Islands, who both ended on nine points.
This translates into Mexico falling from 9th to 12th in the Americas’ Rankings. The Cayman Islands move up one spot to 11th. There are also gains for Guyana and Trinidad & Tobago.
In 2014, the Green Machine etched their names in the history books after edging the Panthers to claim their maiden RAN (formerly North American and Caribbean Rugby Association) 15s title with a come-from-behind 30-27 win.
