T&T blank Honduras to reach Gold Cup quarter-finals
HOUSTON, Texas (CMC) — Trinidad & Tobago defeated Honduras 2-0 to clinch a place in the CONCACAF Gold Cup quarter-finals on Monday night.
Kenwyne Jones scored from the penalty spot early in the second half and provided Kevin Molino with an assist mid-day the final half to seal victory in Houston.
Honduras had already secured top spot in the group after victories in their opening two matches, allowing Trinidad and Tobago to capitalise on their complacency with an inspired second-half display.
Jones who was handed the captain’s armband in place of Densill Theobold, had two chances in the first 20 minutes that went close, heading over the crossbar and shooting just wide of the target.
The Stoke City striker put the Soca Warriors ahead in the 48th minute by converting a penalty after Orlin Peralta had fouled Cornell Glen in the box.
Jones then helped his side double their advantage in the 67th minute when he set up Kevin Molino to score from inside the penalty area.
Trinidad and Tobago finished in second place behind Honduras who had earlier wins against Haiti and El Salvador.
Even though Trinidad and El Salvador finished level on points at four apiece and goal difference, the Caribbean side secured their second spot due to scoring more goals (4-3).
In the other game, Haiti went tumbling out of the Gold Cup after losing to El Salvador 1-0. The Haitians had a chance to advance earlier but a late goal sent them crashing out.
