Leaders MoBay forced to fight for draw against Molynes

Malachi Sterling’s added-time goal saved Jamaica Premier League leaders Montego Bay United from a second straight defeat, after they played to a 1-1 draw with Molynes United at the Constant Spring Sports Complex yesterday.

Nicholas Nelson gave Molynes the lead from the penalty spot in the 62nd minute of play, but Sterling’s late strike denied the relegation strugglers three valuable points.

MoBay coach Xavier Gilbert was very disappointed with the result, saying his team squandered too many chances.

“We just failed to convert. We know it’s a tough period for everybody. They are fighting to stay in the league. So we knew it was going to be tough, but we got some good opportunities and we have to make them count, especially after coming off a loss and knowing how important three points would have been and not securing it, I am disappointed,” he commented.

Both teams gave as good as they got in the first period, creating good openings during the half. However, it was MoBay who had the best chance to break the deadlock moments before the break.

However, the usually reliable Brian Brown scuffed the effort from 10 yards out, and when the rebound fell to his feet, he placed the shot just wide of the target.

Molynes had a great chance to open the scoring immediately from the second-half kick-off, but Samson Oke failed to beat the goalkeeper, and then Odane Murray wasted the loose ball from a great position.

The two teams continued to play open attacking football, with Molynes getting the better looks at goal but lacking the quality on the final third.

Molynes would take the lead after Marlon Pennicooke was brought down by goalkeeper Davinnie Burton in the area and Nelson converted from the spot.

MoBay pushed for the equaliser, with Deonjay Brown and Brian Brown wasting good chances. It took an excellent save from goalkeeper Authur Lamoth to deny Brian Brown in the 75th minute.

The visitors kept up the pressure and got the equalising goal in time added, when Sterling’s attempted cross flew into the far corner of the goal without a touch.

Molynes coach Jermaine Thomas thought they did enough to get three points.

“We conceded again towards to back end of the game. We could have dealt with the ball a little bit better, but I thought enough pressure wasn’t on it.

“Nevertheless, looking back at the performances over the last two weeks, I am thinking that once we can continue playing like this, it can be good going forward,” he said.

MoBay (58 points) stay atop the table, five clear of Racing United, who drew 2-2 with Harbour View. Molynes (26) remain second from bottom, six more than Spanish Town Police and two less than Harbour View.

In the day’s other game, Chapelton Maroons scored their third win in four games, beating Tivoli 1-0 to move 41 points, one adrift of sixth-place Cavalier.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com