Scotiabank CONCACAF Under 13 Competition Day 1 Zone B results:
Aguilas (Mexico) 2 HVFC 1
Montreal Impact 3 DC United 0
A first minute goal conceded from a left-sided attack pushed the Jamaican youngsters on the backfoot very early.
HVFC was doing well to repel the constant pressure of the home-based team cheered on by their supporting family, in the first 20 minutes to keep the score at 0-1.
Very slowly, the eastern Kingston-based players started to get on terms with the pace of the game; The rarefied air and a few passing sequences gained some measure of confidence, to participate. The HVFC counter-attack led to striker Kellijah Morgan hitting the upright as the Mexicans did likewise to end the half 0-1.
HVFC Coaches Noel ‘Bobby’ McLaren and Sydney McFarlane worked feverishly to revive team play and coordination in the break as a few players had already come off the field with chest problems, and were treated by the medical staff. Arriving at the hotel at minutes after 1am this morning did not work in our favour, but the boys were focused on giving their best and took over the game in the second half.
Morgan hit the upright once again but could not equalize. Against the run of play, the Mexicans scored once more in the 64th minute to lead 0-2. Morgan and HVFC were not finished, and when he found a slick one-two with strike partner and substitute Matthew Coke (son of Richard Coke) he raced away to convert, closing the gap but not unable to garner a point in the end.
About four more players received treatment at the end of the game for breathing concerns, but should be alright after rest and recovery.
DAY 2:
Tomorrow HVFC goes up against the Canadians, Montreal Impact, at 1:30pm while DC United simultaneously tackles Aguilar in Round 2 of 3.