BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

Home 2004

Matchworn (player and game unknown)

Manufacturer: Lazer Kits

Source: Collector

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THE COUNTRY

Despite the name, both the British and US Virgin Islands are not an island full of virginal 40+ year olds still living with their moms, but a group of islands discovered by Columbus and eventually, via detours, passed into the hands of the British and Americans, respectively.

In footballing terms, both territories are in the same realm – way down at the bottom!

The BVI are currently in third-last place and the USVI just one place above them. Historically, it is probably the only duel in football in which the Americans are consistently slightly superior to the British!

THE SHIRT

There are many examples of the fact that jersey designs are not proportional to footballing ability. The Virgin Islands are one of them. Even if it doesn't quite have the magnificence of the USVI jersey in my collection, it is nonetheless quite a firecracker! Large collar, shiny fabric, XXL dimensions and an embroidered badge are the ingredients of a great 90s/2000s jersey. And it was also made by a manufacturer called “Lazer Kits” - what could possibly go wrong?

It was probably worn in various games around 2004 – I can't say for sure, as I could only find one match photo with this shirt (thanks to Nick's archives): from a game against Saint Lucia in 2004.

A white/green away jersey was also worn at that time.

My favorite detail of the jersey, however, is barely decipherable: the phrase “Football for all” is illegibly scribbled below the association's crest. A beautiful motto you wouldn't want to contradict!

The BVI wearing the shirt against Saint Lucia in 2004