STATHS dominant despite slim 2-1 win over St Jago

ST ANDREW Technical High School (STATHS) had a more comfortable win than their come-from-behind 2-1 scoreline over St Jago High would suggest as the two got their ISSA/Digicel Manning Cup second-round football tie underway at the Spanish Town Prison Oval yesterday.

St Jago drew first blood despite STATHS’ obvious dominance.

Just eight minutes into the affair, Javar Harris’ 40-yard screamer forced STATHS goalkeeper Fabian Marsh to tip over the bar. The resultant corner was turned home by Danielo McKenzie to the delight of the home fans.

Despite the early lead, St Jago were forced on the back foot for the remainder of the half, the visitors continuing their dominance. In fact, STATHS should have drawn level on at least four occasions but faulty shooting from Shakena Satchell and Omar Reid missed from inside the 18-yard box.

In the second half, the one-way traffic continued and it was no surprise when STATHS drew level in the 67th minute.

Leo Brown’s pass found Andre Salmon inside the penalty area and he made no mistake.

Four minutes later, Salmon turned provider, skilfully beating two St Jago defenders before making a clinical pass to Satchell on the edge of the 18-yard box. Satchell’s grounded effort had St Jago goalkeeper Shamore Dawkins well beaten.

The status quo continued for the remainder of the game even though STATHS should have extended their lead on at least five occasions. Again, faulty shooting proved the culprit that would leave the scores as close as they were.

Despite being outplayed, St Jago nearly stole a point in the final minute of play but substitute Alrick Maitland’s long-range effort ricocheted off the inside of the crossbar and back into play.

Winning coach Philip Williams was pleased with the win, but was not leaving an entirely happy man.

“Happy for the win but it should have been by a bigger margin, as the guys threw away a lot of chances. Despite going behind early, we were confident of victory as we were at least four goals better than our opponents. But a win is a win and we’re glad for three points. This has set us up well for Saturday’s return game,” said Williams.

Garnet Lawrence, coach of St Jago, despite being outplayed for much of the encounter, believes it is not over yet.

“It was tired legs in the second half from the guys but it is not yet over, as we have one leg to go and we are confident we can overturn that 2-1 margin.”