THERE was shock recently when word spread that Tivoli Gardens FC, one of the nation’s most popular football teams, might not be contesting the 2014-15 Red Stripe Premier League due to monetary constraints.

That scare was averted and a few weeks later, the newly-appointed head coach Alvin Shaw is harbouring thoughts of actually lifting the winning trophy.

When the Sunday Observer visited Tivoli’s base at the Edward Seaga Complex last week, a relaxed-looking Shaw watched as squad members eagerly went through their paces.

“We’re definitely looking to win the Premier League this year and we have the quality players who can do it,” Shaw said.

“I wouldn’t say it [the financial issue] has passed, but we are in a better situation now. The fact still remains that there are difficulties and we are still looking and asking for whatever help that is out there. However, the players are in good spirits and they are putting in the work since we got the go-ahead.”

Tivoli Gardens, most recently winners in the 2010-11 season, ended the preliminary phase in fifth position last campaign, missing out on a spot to the semi-final stage.

The head coach says that failure has served as a motivator for the players.

“Most of the players were very disappointed about last year. So far, the body language in the training sessions, you can see that they are putting in the work to try and overcome that disappointment from last year. I think as long as we remain focused and there are no distractions we should be able to go all the way.

“I have a very talented squad and we have enough personnel, as well, to last the entire nine months. I think we are going to achieve a lot of things this season.”

But given the pre-season hiccups and the inevitable setback to their preparation, how will Tivoli Gardens cope against teams who are likely to be more advanced in their level of readiness?

“Things have delayed our pre-season [preparation] but nonetheless the players are optimistic and I’ve informed them that wherever we fall short in our physical preparation we are just going to have to prepare ourselves mentally to make up for it,” was the answer from Shaw.

Long-serving player Damion Gordon, who is injured, will act as Shaw’s assistant this season. Up to last season, Shaw was assistant to Glendon ‘Admiral’ Bailey, but the latter resigned towards the end of the campaign.

Tivoli Garden’s opening game is slated to be against hosts Humble Lion FC at the Effortville Community Centre in a 6:30 pm kick-off today.