Waterhouse ‘keeper targets 20 clean sheets

Waterhouse goalkeeper Akeem Bernard has set his sights on recording 20 clean sheets in this season’s Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League, after making an impressive start to the campaign.

Bernard, a 21-year-old former national Under-20 goalkeeper, has conceded just two goals in six appearances while recording four clean sheets, the most in the league so far.

He said his early-season form is the result of hard work during the pre-season and a determination to achieve major goals this campaign.

“It is a great feeling to have got four clean sheets so far, because I have worked very hard in the pre-season, and so I told myself that, coming into this season, I want to achieve a lot,” said Bernard. “I am just working towards some major goals this season.”

However, Bernard said he is not satisfied with his current tally and is determined to keep improving as he pursues both individual and team success.

Become the number-one goalkeeper

“The work is not done, because I still have a lot more clean sheets that I want to get. I want to get 20 clean sheets and, once I get there, I just want to add more to become the number-one goalkeeper in the Jamaica Premier League,” he said.

The shot-stopper is also focused on helping Waterhouse win the league title and secure qualification for Concacaf competition.

“I want my team to qualify for the Concacaf Club Championships and to win the Premier League, so that is also my aim this season,” Bernard said.

He noted that representing Jamaica at the senior international level remains one of his biggest ambitions, having dreamed of wearing the national colours since childhood.

“It is a dream to play for my country because, as a kid growing up, I always wanted to represent my country. So I want to play for my country as well,” he said.

Bernard believes maintaining his fitness, confidence and commitment will be crucial to achieving those objectives.

“I am fully locked in, and I am fit right now. You just have to work and believe in yourself and always tell yourself that you are the best. That is my motivation each day,” he said.

Bernard also expressed confidence that Waterhouse possess the quality and team chemistry to challenge for the title this season.

“My team is very good, and we gel together. So I think that we can win this league this season,” Bernard said.