Andre Waugh, the Portmore United technical director, says that while his team has great respect for champions Arnett Gardens FC, the aim is to leave Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex with full points after tonight’s Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) clash.

The game is scheduled to commence at 8:40 pm.

Ahead of yesterday’s games, the teams were placed number one and two, respectively, in the 12-team points standing. Portmore have 43 points from 21 games, while hosts Arnett Gardens are on 39.

With both teams packed with an abundance of individual talent, a fascinating clash is on the cards.

“It’s a case of old foes meeting up and the rivalry exists. We expect a very competitive game, and for us it is just about getting those three points. We are hoping that attractive football can be played for the fans, but primarily we want to win,” Waugh said.

“We respect them for what they (Arnett Gardens) have done over the past few seasons…they have been one of the top clubs in the country,” he added.

Portmore, the former national champions, were relegated from top-flight football for a season. However, since gaining promotion for the start of this campaign they have been outstanding. The Jeffrey Hewitt-coached Portmore United came out 1-0 winners over Arnett Gardens when the teams met earlier this season. They have also won four RSPL games on the trot.

Waugh said the current run is only a part of the major goal of regaining the RSPL title.

“We are totally committed to achieving our objective. We are prepared and mindful of that. We always want to win, we want to win what we are a part of, and we want to win the league,” he said.

Arnett have also been impressive — winning five of their last six games.

Their Head Coach Jerome Waite said he is relishing the prospect of a tight contest.

“That could be one of the better games of the season. Portmore have been playing extremely well. They are on top of the table and we follow them. I expect a very good encounter and that is something we are always looking forward to,” Waite said.

He explained that getting the better of his rivals is particularly important, given the way the lead has changed hands amongst the teams at the top.

“The teams this year are really competitive. There are teams at the bottom struggling, but it has been a competitive season. If you notice the top three, any of those teams can take the lead at any point in time,” said the Arnett Gardens coach.

The top four teams at the end of 33 preliminary games will automatically advance to the RSPL semi-finals.