MoBay, Portmore fail to find an advantage

Montego Bay United (MBU) were held to a goalless draw by Portmore United in a thrilling Jamaica Premier League encounter at Jarrett Park yesterday.

Despite sharing points in the tightly contested affair, MBU remain league leaders on 36 points after second-placed Racing United failed to close a three-point gap with their game against Dunbeholden FC ending in a 1-1 draw.

Portmore are third on 31 points.

Xavier Gilbert, coach of MBU, said after adding explosive former Arnett Gardens winger Kimani Arbouine to their roster, others will be coming.

“We’re still looking to confirm others who we targeted and hopefully, all things can go well and we can boost the squad in this busy period,” said Gilbert.

Gilbert stated that MBU travels more than every other team so it can be challenging.

“January and February are very hectic. When you look at the schedule [there are] two matches or more per week, so players are going to be fatigued. We will continue to work, and that is why it is important that we have the quality right away,” said Gilbert.

Both teams created chances but were unable to find the breakthrough, with disciplined defending and goalkeeping on display throughout the match.

Meanwhile, Rodolph Austin, coach of Portmore, said the result was indicative of a difficult game.

“We just had to be tactical the way we play, and compact, and try to nullify their attacks. They are the leaders, who have been winning and consistent throughout the season,” said Austin.

“MBU has had a dip in their performance, but we came here expecting a tough game and that’s what we got. We are happy for the point.”

Portmore United will take confidence from the result, while Montego Bay United will now turn their attention to maintaining their advantage as the title race intensifies.

YESTERDAY’S GAMES

MBU 0-0 Portmore

Racing 1-1 Dunbeholden

Spanish Town 1-0 Chapelton Marrons

Mount Pleasant - Harbour View (postponed)

Treasure Beach- Cavalier (postponed)