Parris nets late brace in U-17s win

A LATE brace by Kaheem Parris gave 10man Jamaica a 3-1 win over El Salvador and kept the young Reggae Boyz in contention for a place in the second phase of the CONCACAF Under-17 championship now under way in Panama.

Needing a win to keep their hopes alive, Jamaica jumped in front thanks to an 18th minute strike from Ricardo McIntosh. The young Boyz kept their advantage until the break but nine minutes into the second half El Salvador drew level from Ronald Cerritos Castraneda’s penalty.

Ten minutes later, the Andrew Edwards-coached team was reduced to ten men when Calwayne Allen was ejected after a second yellow card. However, t he Boyz were thrown a lifeline when Trinidadian referee Rodphin Harris awarded them a penalty six minutes from time, and although Parris missed his initial attempt he converted from the rebound to put Jamaica 2-1 up. Then in added time, the Dinthill High midfielder fired home from a free kick, to put the game to bed.

THREE MORE POINTS

The win lifted Jamaica to three points from two games in Group C, the same as Mexico, who were outscored 4-3 by the United States. The United States top the group with six points, Mexico are second on goal difference. The top two teams from each of three groups will advance to the next round.

Jamaica will face Mexico in their last group game on Saturday, while the USA will play El Salvador.