Adlam goal gives Portmore perfect launch

Claudia Gardner, Gleaner Writer

FROME, Westmoreland:

A 43rd-minute strike from Alanzo Adlam propelled Portmore United Football Club to a 1-0 win over Westmoreland's Reno FC under wet conditions, as action commenced in this season's Digicel Premier League yesterday.

Adlam's goal came after a cross from teammate Trevol Smith on the right wing ended in the six-yard box. After a short tussle between members of both teams, the ball rolled towards an unmarked Adlam, who immediately blasted it into the roof of the net.

Reno suffered a setback about 15 minutes before full-time when Nicholy Findlayson was ejected from the game after committing an infringement on one of his opponents. The Westmoreland team never recovered as their efforts at equalisation were constantly thwarted by the Portmore defence.

In an interview with The Gleaner following the game, Reno's coach Wendell Downswell, while commending Portmore for a well-played game, also gave his team kudos for putting up a gallant battle.

"It was an evenly contested game. There was quite a good performance from Portmore in general. We made a major blunder and they capitalised on that chance. I think it's unfortunate that we didn't get a goal. We took control in the second half and we were quite competitive," Downswell said.

He however expressed annoyance with Findlayson's conduct.

"We can't have senior players coming on the field and getting silly cards like those.

We can no longer tolerate those kinds of behaviour and we have to make a decision. Nicholy got a stupid card and it affected the team's performance in general.

Senior players have to show a level of soberness and tolerance on the field of play," Downswell commented.

Portmore's coach, Linval 'Rudi' Dixon, told The Gleaner that he was elated to be taking home three points.

"I am feeling really good, especially to have come down here and played in muddy conditions because I know Reno should be used to it with rain down here every day. Last season was not a great season for us, but this year we want to improve on our game, to go out there to perform and win the title," said Dixon.