Winning goal gives Nelson that feel-good sensation

Orane Hart, Gleaner Intern

"IT feels good."

These were the words of an elated Roen Nelson, who struck the winning goal for Highgate in their Jamaica Football Federation Confederation play-off football match against Rivoli United this past Wednesday.

Nelson scored the winning goal in the 75th minute to give his Highgate team a 2-1 win.

Nelson's winner put the St Mary-based Highgate in pole position to make it to the Premier League next season, as they are joint leaders with Seba United in the four-team play-off - with eight points and two rounds remaining.

Very experienced

Nelson, who has a wealth of Premier League experience, having formerly plied his trade for Portmore United in the past, feels Highgate are well equipped to survive in the nation's top division.

"We will go there and do our very best, with the backing of these great fans from St Mary," Nelson said.

Nelson also feels that his Premier League experience has had a good influence on his current team.

"I believe it helps a lot. The players, coaches and fans have great faith in me and I try to repay this faith with my experience and knowledge of the Premier League because I'm used to (playing at) that level," he pointed out.

The much-travelled Nelson, who has had two stints with Premier League giants Portmore United, admitted that things have not always gone his way this season with Highgate.

"Before today (Wednesday) I haven't scored in the play-offs for the team while other attacking players have, but it feels good to score the goal that matters most," he said.

Nelson, who has netted seven goals in the Eastern Confederation Super League this season, added: "I was not playing that much this season due to the fact that the coach likes to rotate his players a lot because it's a long season. But I'm still proud of myself, my team-mates and especially the fans from St Mary for their brilliant support."

The 31-year-old striker has also had club stints in Trinidad & Tobago and China for Joe Public Tunapuna and Chengdu Blades, respectively.