GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands (CMC) — Guatemala and Jamaica played to an entertaining 0-0 draw in Group A on Thursday in the opening of the 2014 CONCACAF Women’s Under-20 Championship.

The encounter was marked by Jamaica’s robust offensive display in the first half and the Guatemalans’ increasing confidence throughout the evening.

The Caribbean champions enjoyed significant periods of positive play, lifted by Oshay Nelson Lawes at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex. The 17-year-old forward saw a right-footed lunge from close range sail just over the crossbar and another effort hit the outside netting within 35 minutes into the game.

The Reggae Girlz’s best chance came earlier, though, when Kayla Gray won possession on the right side to deliver a cross that landed in front of the Guatemalan goal.

But Nicole Harris failed to apply the finishing touch. Guatemala produced the clearest opportunity four minutes before the interval when Aisha Solorzano dribbled down the middle of the field and slipped a pass towards Mia Espino. Espino then looped an attempt towards goal from 18 yards out that hit the crossbar and goal line.

Jamaican goalkeeper Taylor Grant left the field with an apparent leg injury and has been replaced by Chris-Ann Chambers. Jamaica return to action today against the United States at 7:30 pm, while Guatemala will meet Costa Rica at 5:00 pm.