Portmore turn back Molynes in JPL
Published:Monday | June 6, 2022 | 12:09 AMLivingston Scott/Gleaner Writer
Portmore United turned back Molynes United 1-0 in a Jamaica Premier League (JPL) match at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex yesterday.
Shai Smith netted the game’s only goal in first-half added time, and coach Phillip Williams, who was getting his first win in three matches, said he was elated to finally get a win.
He added also that they would be working very hard to ensure that they end the season on a high note with a win next weekend.
“It is a very good feeling. It has been a while since we have the taste of victory. We are using these games as a platform for next season and to finish with a win is something we want to work towards going forward,” he said.
Portmore have only one game remaining this season, against Mount Pleasant next week. They overtook Vere in ninth place with 20 points, five more than their opponents who remain 11th.
Portmore created a number of good chances throughout the game with three chances falling to Smith in the first half, but he was denied by some good goalkeeping from Jonathan Campbell and excellent defending from Omari Morgan.
Rudolph Austin also had a good break, but his effort was blocked by Morgan.
However, in first-half added time, Smith took down a long pass and calmly slotted past Campbell for the winner.
After the break, Emilio Rousseau and Smith came very close, but Molynes continued to deny them with good defensive work.
“It is a young squad, and I don’t think they will carry us to the championship next season. There are elements that need fixing with some senior players in one or two key positions. Then we can have a nice blend with youth and seniors,” Williams added.
NEXT STAGE
Meanwhile, Molynes United’s assistant coach, Andre Daley, while confirming the departure of coach Garnet Lawrence after a half season with the club, said his team lacks motivation with only two games to play and no chance of progressing to the next stage.
“Coach Lawrence is no longer with us for personal reasons. Nevertheless, the boys are not really motivated to play any more games. They have just one game to go,” Daley pointed out.
In other games, Humble Lion stunned Dunbeholden 3-1, Cavalier surprised Mount Pleasant by a similar score and Arnett Gardens whipped Tivoli Gardens 3-1.