Portmore United's Michael Binns (white jersey) examines his next move against Racing FC in a Caribbean Club Championship match on May 16, 2017, in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. (Photo: CA-Images)
PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad & Tobago – Portmore United’s 1-0 victory over Racing FC on Tuesday in 2017 Caribbean Club Championship, Group B play, came mingled with a hint of history.
It marked the first time that the Caribbean power has qualified for a CONCACAF competition since it participated in the 2006 Champions Cup.
“We are feeling extremely proud by our exploits” said head coach Linval Dixon. “Overall our performance against Racing FC was very good. I felt based on the number of chances we created that we could have scored two more goals. However, as this final round progresses, I am sure we will find our footing as we have two more matches to play which include a game against San Juan Jabloteh and either the final or third-place playoff.”
Dixon, a former Jamaica international who played in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, competed for Portmore United from 1995-2002, when it was known as Hazard United. He is eagerly looking forward to the San Juan Jabloteh encounter for one primary reason.
“On San Juan Jabloteh, they have Jamaicans Adrian Reid, Keithy Simpson and Damion Williams. All who not only played for Jamaica, but all who played for Portmore United in the past,” Dixon noted. “Many members of this current Portmore squad were teammates with these trio of players, so the competitive edge will be there for us on Thursday when we take the field. The players want the win and that’s exactly what we are aiming for.
“It’s going to be a big challenge. This game will be difficult as it is a local team in Trinidad, so they will have the support. We need to just stay composed and we will get our chances.”
Despite both teams being on three points, thanks to superior difference, Jabloteh will advance to the final with a draw against Portmore. Only the CCC champion will advance to the 2018 Scotiabank CONCACAF Champions League, while the other finalist and the sides competing in the match for third place will qualify for the 2017 Scotiabank CONCACAF League.
