In a thrilling match at the National Stadium, the Jamaica football team, under the guidance of Rene Simoes, played Santa Claus and delivered a Christmas miracle by defeating Mexico 2-1. Onandi Lowe, often a mischievous presence on the field, played the role of a Christmas pixie, scoring a header in the 67th minute from a Walter Boyd corner. Boyd, showcasing brilliance, secured Jamaica's victory with a free kick in the 83rd minute. Despite a spirited fightback from Mexico, Jamaica's dominance prevailed, earning applause from the crowd and praise from Simoes. The festive joy extended as the Jamaica Under-20 team triumphed 1-0 against Santos.

Published Thursday, December 21, 1995

'Santa' Simoes delivers a special present to JA – December 21, 1995

By TYM GLASER: Gleaner Sports Reporter

THE Jamaica football team, guided by latter-day Santa Claus Rene Simoes, delivered the ultimate Christmas present to the island’s sports fans when it defeated Mexico 2-1 at the National Stadium last night.

Forward Onandi Lowe, so often the team’s wicked elf for on-field indiscretions, turned Christmas pixie as he headed home from a Walter Boyd corner in the 67th minute to give ’Santa’ Simoes and his squad of helpers the lead.

Boyd, from a brilliantly taken free kick, put Jamaica ahead for good in the 83rd minute after Mexico pulled the initial goal back in the 80th minute.

Jamaica started the game slowly in front of a typically vocal crowd as the young Mexican team showed off its abundant pace, however the home side soaked up the pressure and slowly took control of the match as the visitors were matched for class and beaten for chemistry.

Lowe and fellow forward Paul Young worked tirelessly in the first half and created a series of corner kicks and free kicks that tested Mexican ’keeper Fernando Rivera to the limit.

Most of the play was in the Mexican half and any counter-attacks were snuffed out by ’keeper and captain Warren Barrett and his defensive cohorts.

At half-time, Simoes substituted midfielder Altimont Butler, who had been quite impressive, with Boyd and the Jamaicans picked up where they had left off as soon as the second stanza commenced.

Early chances were squandered by the home team, but just when it seemed the side would do everything but win, Lowe struck with a powerful header to drive the crowd delirious.

The dogged Mexicans, despite being clearly outplayed, refused to lay down and die and struck back 13 minutes later through Eduardo after a spirited fightback.

Boyd, also in the wicked elf class after missing a recent tour of the eastern Caribbean, emulated Lowe and turned good guy when he struck his brilliant free kick three minutes later and capped a brilliant night for Jamaican sport.

After the game, a happy Simoes praised his side, but also said there were still lessons to be learned - especially by hero Boyd.

’Walter Boyd is a very talented and skilful player, but he must learn it is a team unit.’Mexican football’s secretary general, Dr Edgardo Codesal, said he enjoyed the game and Jamaica’s performance.

’It was a very good game and Jamaica played very well particularly No 10 (Boyd) and 17 (Lowe),’ Codesal said.

’They are a very strong team and played well enough to win the game.’

Jamaica Under-20 team defeated Major League side Santos 1-0, thanks to a fine free kick from David Dixon.

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