UWI, Portmore battle for spot in RSPL final
HAVING MADE a conscious decision not to chase the $1m on offer for ending the season with the most points and go for the big prize of the title, coach Marcel Gayle will be hoping his charges will continue to make his choice seem a wise one by holding off the more seasoned Portmore United today.
In today’s second-leg semifinal of the Red Stripe Premier League, UWI FC come in with a 2-1 advantage after coming from behind to take the first leg, 2-1, courtesy of goals from Girvon and Patrick Brown. This after Ricardo Morris had fired them into the lead. For many observers, Portmore United had the match in their hands, but faulty finishing denied them.
“We have to give UWI FC credit for the way they fought. They took their chances and we did not. We will have to lift our game and take the chances that we will create in the next game, and if we do that, we should be OK,” Portmore United coach Linval Dixon said after the first leg and before heading off to play in the final round of the Caribbean Football Union’s Champions League.
Marcel Gayle of UWI FC praised his players for rising to the occasion and overcoming injuries and match rustiness to give his team the victory. He singled out midfield maestro Keammar Daley for his leadership and man of the match performance.
REPEAT PERFORMANCE
UWI FC will need a similar performance from the experienced Daley and support from captain Rochane Smith, the Browns and goalkeeper Amal Knight if they are to advance ahead of Portmore United.
Portmore United had a fair performance in the CFU Champions League, with Morris being their most outstanding player. They will require his consistency and significantly improved performances from Michael Binns, captain and leading scorer Ewan Grandison. Jovan East looked an improved player in the knockout round, but his sharpness deserted him in the first leg. He, too, and impact substitute Malique Foster will have to show up, but their biggest boost could come from Tramaine Stewart, if fit.
TODAY’S GAME:
3:00 p.m. UWI FC vs Portmore United FC @ UWI Bowl