Portmore, Cavalier in RSPL semi-final stalemate
Cavalier were left disappointed after being held to a 0-0 with a Portmore United team playing with 10 men from the 71st minute in the first-leg of their Red Stripe Premier League semi-final match at the Stadium East field yesterday.
The return leg is set for next Sunday at the Spanish Town Prison Oval where both teams will be hunting a spot into the final in which they will meet either Arnett Gardens or Waterhouse.
Portmore United were reduced to 10 men after Andre Dyce picked up his second yellow card in the 71st minute, but Cavalier failed to seized the advantage and managed only a goalless draw.
In front of easily the biggest crowd at the Stadium East facility this season, Cavalier’s Alex Marshall got the first opportunity of the match after he was played through by skipper Chevone Marsh in the 19th minute, but he kicked straight at goalkeeper Kemar Foster with his weaker right foot.
In the 25th minute, Portmore’s Maalique Foster selfishly shot into the side netting from an acute angle with a better crossing option available.
Shortly after, Cavalier had another chance when Clarendon College schoolboy Nique Daley saw his tame sidefooted effort from close range going straight into the arms of the goalkeeper.
Moments later, Portmore suffered a major setback as national player Foster picked up a knock from a challenge by Marsh and had to be substituted in minute 39.
The second half never materialised in terms of excitement as Portmore looked more content with a draw, especially playing without their injured ace Foster.
But Cavalier almost won it when Nicholas Hamilton’s effort hit the upright in the 76th minute.
— Howard Walker