The Reggae Boyz move into Semi’s with victory over Guyana
December 1, 2010
Stade de Riviere Pilote, Martinique: Jamaica, already qualified as Group winners, again proved to be the far better team on the night showing their strength and depth with another victory to take them to the semi-finals with an easy 4-0 win over Guyana.

Despite Guyana requiring victory they opened the match with a cautious formation leaving one main striker upfront. They seemed content to let Jamaica keep possession and come at them. Jamaica did so and looked very comfortable probing and moving the ball around in front of the Guyana defense.

The opening came on 42 minutes when Ryan Johnson won a free kick on the left. A good delivery from Keammar Daley, to the far post found Johnson who headed the ball back across goal for Dane Richards to head home into an empty net. A just reward for Jamaica’s more sustained attacking play.

The 2nd half resumed with the Reggae Boyz maintaining control as their quality was proving too much for Guyana who were unable to trouble the strong Jamaican defense. The gulf in class was becoming more evident as the match progressed. On 49 minutes a tremendous effort from Luton Sheldon to reach a ball that seemed destined to go out over the endline and play a super cross from the right into the danger area where Marvin Morgan pounced to drive home a shot from close range.It was only Morgan’s second international appearance so it will do his confidence the world of good to get on the scoring trail.

It was the 65th minute when Guyana created their first clear opening of the night, Dwain Jacobs sprung the offside trap and was racing through on the left, as he was about to shoot the Jamaican defender did just enough to deflect the effort for a corner. From the corner another chance materialized when from the 2nd phase when a ball was played across the face of goal begging for the Jaguars to get a touch but nobody could connect.

Ten minutes after this Jamaica put the result beyond doubt when this time it was Ryan Johnson who did well to dig a cross from the left to find Morgan in an enormous amount of space just outside the 6 yard box, he had time to take a touch and finish with ease. Eric Vernon capped off the night for Jamaica when he rattled the net with goal number 4 at the very end. With three relatively comfortable victories in the Group fans must consider Jamaica as favorites to recapture their title.

For more information, access to match images and live score updates, visit www.digicelfootball.com.

Jamaica: 1 Richard McCallum 2. Richard Edwards (46 mins 3. Sergio Campbell) 6 Jermaine Taylor (Captain) 8. Eric Vernan 9. Ryan Johnson 10 Keammar Daley 11 Dane Richards (46 mins 12. Marvin Morgan) 16. Troy Smith 18 Keneil Moodie 19 Adrian Reid 21 Luton Shelton (53 mins 5. O’Brian Woodbine) Coach: Theodore Whitmore Guyana: 1 Ronson Williams 3 Howard Lowe (Captain) 4 Chris Bourne 6 Jake Newton 7 Dwain Jacobs 8. Winston Ali 9. Dwight Peters (30 mins Walter Moore) 11 Kester Jacobs (78 mins 16. Philbert Moffat) 13 Charles Pollard 15. Shawn Beveney (81 mins 10. Anthony Abrams) 19 Nigel Codrington Coach: Wayne Dover
Game Report from www.digicelfootball.com. Read more in the Forum

Jamaica keep perfect record and reach Digicel semis
Monday, November 29th 2010 – Stade de Riviere Pilote, Martinique: Jamaica maintained their 100% record in the Digicel Cup tonight with a comprehensive performance against a strong Guadeloupe side that now assures them of winning Group I and qualifying to the Digicel Cup semi finals.

Jamaica played with the slight advantage of the wind in the first half and were nearly in front after only a minutes play when Dale Richards took advantage of the elements and let fly from all of 20 yards only for his shot to be well saved by an alert Bus in the French goal. Richards continued to cause a huge amount of trouble down the left and when his cross was met by an inrushing Shelton from the left, his header shaved the far post when it seemed as if the Jamaicans were about to take the lead.

Guadeloupe were being out playeed in most areas of the field but grew in confidence as the half wore on. With 4 minutes to half time Gotin had their best chance of the half when he turned and lashed out at his shot from the right side of the goal 8 yards out, but his effort went harmlessly wide and Miller was not troubled.

The French started the second half a lot brighter than they did the first and with Auvray making incise runs into the box they started to look a real threat. On 52 minutes the French should have scored when Mocka played a delicate chipped cross between the Jamaican defence for Auvray to launch himself at the ball with a flying header but his effort went inches past the post.

The Reggae Boyz took their warning seriously and went straight down the other end and scored. That man again Dale Richards was yet again the thorn in the side for the French and his beautiful cross was met 8 yards out with a firm header that Shaun Francis met and planted into the corner. The young Francis turned and celebrated ecstatically in the corner, and rightly so as he notched his first ever senior goal for Jamaica in this his fourth appearance in the famous yellow shirt.

Jamaica were presented a gift to end this match as a contest when on 62 minutes Richards beat everyone to the ball and cut back for top scorer Shelton who somehow blasted over from 5 yards when he seemed destined to extend his lead in his search for the Digicel Golden Boot award.

Guadeloupe kept searching for the equalizer and the introduction of Collet with his wicked left foot added an attacking impetus that the French lacked in the first half. The Jamaicans responded with a calculated substitute of their own with coach Whitmore bringing on the big target man Johnson who was causing all sorts of trouble up front as he combined well with Shelton. Johnson had a chance to finish it off on 88 minutes after his strength saw him through two challenges before he smashed his shot off the legs of Bus in the Guadeloupe goal.

With time running out Guadeloupe had a free kick 20 yards out and well within striking range for dead ball specialist Jean Luc Lamboude. But when his free kick hit the wall, the Jamaicans broke with speed and after the French dallied in possession Johnson took full advantage of their reluctance to clear the ball and gleefully stroked Jamaica’s second goal home in injury time.

The result now assures the Reggae Boyz of qualification to the semi finals of the Digicel Cup and in top spot from Group I no matter what the other results, will mean their automatic qualification to the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2011.

Guadeloupe must now win their final game against Antigua and hope that Jamaica keep their 100% record against Guyana. For more information, access to match images and live score updates, visit www.digicelgroup.com.

Jamaica:
13. Dwayne Miller 4 Shavar Thomas (Captain) 6 Jermaine Taylor 7 Lovel Palmer 10 Keammar Daley 11 Dane Richards (2. Richard Edwards 82 mins) 14 Omar Cummings (9. Ryan Johnson 65 mins) 15 Shaun Francis (16. Troy Smith 75 mins) 17 Rodolph Austin 19 Adrian Reid 21 Luton Shelton. Coach: Theodore Whitmore

Guadeloupe:
1 Yohann Bus 4 Ulick Lupede 5. Dominique Mocka 6 Stephane Auvray (Captain) 9. Ludovic Gotin (15. Livio Nabab 67 mins)13 Jean Luc Lomboude 18 Eddy Viator 14 Julien Ictoi 17 Larry Hanany (8. Fabien Belson 52 mins)19 Larry Clavier 20 Loic Loval. Coach: Roger Salnot

Jamaica start championship with 3-1 victory
November 28, 2010
Defending Digicel Cup champions, Jamaica, outclassed Antigua & Barbuda to secure a 3-1 victory in wet conditions in their opening Group I game yesterday at the Riviere Pilote Stadium.

The Reggae Boyz started brightly against an energetic Antiguan side that seemed determined to upset their much fancied opponents. It was short lived however as Jamaica struck after 14 minutes when Dane Richards played the ball into the path of Luton Shelton who has no problems placing it past Keita Decastro in the Antiguan net.

Five minutes later, the speedy Richards came close to making it 2 when he collected a long ball and knocked it over the advancing Decastro only to have what seemed like a certain goal cleared away by Antigua’s captain George Dublin. Jamaica continued to dominate with their pace and quick passing as they pressed for the second goal.

The Reggae Boyz were again rewarded 37 minutes into the game, when Shaun Francis sent a long ball for Shelton to pick up and cleverly cut back across the retreating defenders to slot home making it 2-0. Another through ball three minutes later caught the Antiguans napping as Dane Richards wasted no time in securing the third goal before the end of the first half.

At the start of the second half Antigua’s substitute Gason Gregory had an immediate impact when his powerful free kick from 30 yards flew past keeper Dwayne Miller and went crashing into the back of the Jamaican net.

The more confident Antigua’s pressed the Reggae Boyz defenders and was unlucky not to pull another back when a 55 minute shot from Peter Byers was denied by a brilliant save from Miller who pushed the ball out for a corner. Richards came close to scoring for Jamaica in the 66th minutes as he used his skill and pace to get around two defenders but with only the keeper to beat he blasted the ball over the bar.

The game continued to move between both ends of the pitch with Antigua certainly looking more purposeful as they had the Reggae Boyz on the back foot on a number of occasions. Jamaica went on to secure three points at full time. For more game reports, and match images, visit www.digicelfootball.com.

Jamaica:
Dwayne Miller, Richard Edwards, Shavar Thomas (Captain),  Jermaine Taylor,  Lovel Palmer,  Keammar Daley, (  O’Brian Woodbine 74 mins),  Dane Richards (  Eric Vernon 81 mins),  Dwayne Miller,  Shaun Francis,  Rodolph Austin, ( Keneil Moodie 90 mins), 19 Adrian Reid, 21 Luton Shelton. Coach: Theodore Whitmore

Antigua & Barbuda:
 Keita Decastro, Dave Carr, Joshua Parker, Cochrane,  Kieran Murtagh, Randolph Burton (Ranja Christian 70 mins), George Dublin (Captain), Martin McCoy,Akeem Thomas ( Quinton Griffith 90 mins) Jamie Thomas (Gason Gregory 46 mins) Peter Byers. Coach: Rowan Benjamin... Join the games discussions in the forums

Reggae Boyz ready to defend their Digicel Caribbean Cup title
November 24, 2010
Jamaica is seeking to successfully defend their Digicel Caribbean Cup, which begins on November 26 in Martinique. The Caribbean Cup tournament is played every two years (in even years) and serves as a qualifier for the CONCACAF’s Gold Cup. The final four teams will advance to the Gold Cup.

The Boyz open their Group I game against Antigua and Barbuda on November 27 at the Riviere Pilote Stadium; followed by Guadeloupe at the same venue two days later, and then against Guyana on December 1, also at the Riviere Pilote Stadium. The group winner will play the runners-up of Group H, which comprises Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba, Grenada and hosts Martinique.

Jamaica’s head coach Theodore Whitmore is confident that the Reggae Boyz are ready to represent their country and defend their title. In preparation for the tournament, Jamaica have played eight international games this year, winning four, losing three and drawing one. Their losses have come against world powerhouse Argentina (1-2) in Argentina, 0-2 to South Africa in Germany and 1-2 to Peru in Florida.

In the other games, the Boyz defeated their Caribbean opponents Trinidad and Tobago twice with a 3-1 win in Port of Spain in August and 1-0 in Kingston. They were also victorious against both CONCACAF rivals Canada and Costa Rica 1-0 at home and then drawing the return game with Costa Rica 0-0 in Florida.

For the tournament, Whitmore will bypass the England-based players and instead pull from those based in the Scandinavian nations along with about six or seven players from the US Major League. He believes that including his pool of local players, The Reggae Boyz are strong enough to give the nation its fifth Caribbean Cup title.

In their final training session before departing for Martinique, Whitmore said he was impressed by the players' attitude and aggression and sometimes had to take the pace down a notch. Striker Omar Cummings, fresh from his success with the winning MLS team, the Colorado Rapids, reported to training on Tuesday, but did not take part due to a minor injury. Norwegian based Striker Luton Shelton also missed a portion of Tuesday's training session. Shelton had suffered a head injury after a collision with goalkeeper Dwayne Miller while preparing for the team's last against Costa Rica.

Jamaica's 20-man squad is Dwayne Miller, Richard McCallum, Rodolph Austin, Omar Cummings, Luton Shelton, Keammar Daley, Ryan Johnson, Richard Edwards, Shaun Francis, Eric Vernan, Adrian Reid, Dane Richards, Jermaine Taylor, O'brian Woodbine, Marvin Morgan, Sergio Campbell, Lovel Palmer, Troy Smith, Shavar Thomas and Keneil Moodie.

The delegation is completed by Raymond Anderson, head of delegation; Theodore Whitmore, coach; Bradley Stewart, assistant coach; Warren Barrett, goalkeeper coach; Carlton Fraser, team doctor; Howard Bell, manager; Juan Pablo Camargo, masseur; Andre Waugh, physical trainer; and Norman Stone, equipment manager. Follow the team or Join in on the discussion in the forum

Jamaica and Costa Rica play to scoreless draw
November 18, 2010
Jamaica’ Reggae Boyz and Costa Rica played to a scoreless draw in a friendly at the Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The game was Jamaica’s final warm up before they
begin the defense of their Digicel Caribbean Cup title in the championship that runs from November 26 to December 5, 2010.
 
The sometimes dull and uneventful game was marked by a lack of scoring opportunities for both teams. Costa Rica’s goalkeeper Keilor Navas was the busier of the two goalkeepers and was called upon to stop a Keammar Daley's shot early in the second half. Jamaica again came close to scoring in the 69th minute as a shot from Lovel Palmer hit the right post. In the 73rd minute, Jamaica’s goalkeeper, Dwayne Miller, stopped a close-range header by Oscar Duarte inside the 6-yard box.

Jamaica, which has scored one goal or less in seven of its last eight games this year, gave a decent performance as they kept their shape, showed good pace and played a reasonably well passing game. This was the second meeting between the two teams this year, as Jamaica defeated Costa Rica 1-0 on September 5 in Kingston.

Reggae Boyz To See Action Against Costa Rica
THE Reggae Boyz will see action against Costa Rica on November 17 in a return friendly in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The game will be Jamaica’s final warm up before traveling to Martinique on November 27th to begins the defense of their Digicel Caribbean Cup title. The championship runs from November 26 to December 5, 2010.

Jamaica, ranked 79th by the latest FIFA rankings and  Costa Ricans - ranked 66th, last met on September 5 in Jamaica, where the Reggae Boyz walking away with a 1-0 victory courtesy of a Ryan Johnson's 66th-minute strike. That win was the fourth for Jamaica in 20 attempts with six drawn results and 10 losses against their more powerful Central American rivals.

In his continued effort of player assessment in this pre-World Cup qualifying period, National Senior coach Theodore Whitmore invited seven players currently in the Under-20 Squad to join the local senior players in the training camp. Of these, Sergio Campbell (Clarendon College), Craig Foster (Reno) and Jhamie Hyde (Kingston College); are joining the senior squad for the first time. The other Under 20 players invited are: Devon Williams (St. Georges College); Oneil Fisher (St. Georges); Ricardo Morris (St. James High); Allan Ottey (St. James). Marvin Morgan (St. Georges College and Boys Town)

The full squad reads: Andre Blake (Sporting Central); Duwayne Kerr (Portmore United); Richard McCallum (Waterhouse); Adrian Reid (Portmore); Dicoy Williams (Harbour View): Troy Smith (Village United); Richard Edwards (Harbour View); Keamar Daley(Tivoli Gardens); Dever Orgill (St Georges FC); John Ross Edwards (Harbour View); Ricardo Cousins (Portmore United); Andre Clennon (Waterhouse); Obrian Woodbine (Reno): Dino Williams (Village United); Evan Taylor (Reno)....Join discussions on this game

Jamaica defeat Trinidad & Tobago 1-0
October 10
The Reggae Boyz squeezed out a 1-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago in the return leg of the two match international friendly series between the two countries. The goal was scored by Dane Richards from the penalty spot twenty minutes into the game at the National Stadium in Jamaica.

The penalty was the result of a good combination by the Reggae Boyz that saw Eric Vernan taken down near the six-yard area, as he burst forward fighting to win a ball sent across the goal by Shaun Francis. Richard calmly put the ball in the lower left corner to the delight of about 7,000 supporters which turned up despite the threat of rain

Jamaica also had a second goal disallowed in the 73rd minute when second half substitute Dever Orgill, rounded goalkeeper Jan Michael Williams and slipped the ball into the open goal at the 73rd minute, only for it to be called offside.

Trinidad and Tobago had a good opportunity in the first minute of the game when Devon Justin crack a tremendous left footed strike that was brilliantly saved by Richard McCallum in goal for Jamaica. The Trinidadians pressed Jamaica early but could not take advantage of the Reggae Boyz lack of composure and poor passing. The Soca Warriors had another good opportunity in the 17th minute when Yohance Marshall's header off a Trent Noel corner kick was saved by McCallum.

Both team performances were sub par with Jamaica having the better of play and were able to penetrate their opponent’s defense to create very clear scoring chances on many occasions but unable to put the ball in the net. More football discussions in the Forum

Boyz fall 2-1 to Peru
September 8, 2010

Under a dreary night sky and rainy conditions, Jamaica fell to a 2-1 defeat by Peru in their friendly international at the Lockhart stadium in Ft. Lauderdale Florida.

The game started well after its scheduled 8 p.m. kick-off due to a pay dispute with the promoters. The Reggae Boyz were ordered by JFF president, Captain Horace Burrell, not to take the field until the appearance fee promised by the game's promoters had been paid.

When the game finally got underway, Jamaica kicked off, but within minutes found themselves behind. Demar Phillips came back to help defend against a ball floated into the area but he inadvertently headed the ball past his own goalkeeper to give Peru an early lead.

As the game settled, The Reggae Boyz got their composure back, took control of ball possession and kept Peru back in their half. The Boyz continued to move the ball nicely and were dominant in long spells.

Jamaica rallied in the 20th minute when Jason Morrison played the ball wide right to a fast running Eric Vernan who immediately laid it off to an on running Omar Cummings. The in-form Colorado Rapids striker sent the Jamaican supporters cheering as he hit a vicious 25-yard shot past goalkeeper Salomon Libman for the equalizer.

Motivated by the goal, the Reggae Boyz looked the better team with their passing game keeping Peru on the defensive for the remainder of the first half and rainy conditions.

On the resumption, it was Jamaica that found themselves defending as Peru split the back line with a pass to Juan Manuel Vargas, who shook off the challenge of the Eric Vernan before shooting just wide of goal

The Reggae Boyz continued to soak up pressure with Peru pressing for the winning goal. In the 60th minute, Rencifo’s header from six yards out just missed the frame. They threatened again in the 74th with a breakaway move by danger man Farfan that was booted away by defender Shavar Thomas.

The constant pressure by the South Americans finally paid off late in the game when a quick left sided pass into the area found substitute Fernandez who gave the ball a gentle touch into the Jamaican goal.

The Reggae Boyz will next face arch rivals Trinidad and Tobago at the Office next month in the return leg of a two-game series.  Jamaica defeated the Soca Warriors 3-1 in the first game in Port of Spain last month. Join the after game discussion

Reggae Boyz to face strong test against Peru
September 7, 2010

Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz will face Peru in a friendly international at the Lockhart stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on September 7. Kick-off is set for 8:00 pm (7:00 pm Jamaica time). The game will be played just two days after the Boyz defeated CONCACAF rivals Costa Rica 1-0 in friendly at the National Stadium.

The game is a step in the team’s preparation for next year's start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign. It is also part of the initiative of JFF president, Captain Horace Burrell, to keep the team active in preparation of the Digicel Caribbean Cup in November 2010 and the CONCACAF Gold in 2011.

Peru ranked 39th in the FIFA/Coco Cola rankings, had a poor finish in their CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying play-offs, and like Jamaica is rebuilding with the goal of Brazil 2014. The last time the two nations met was back in November 2006 at the national stadium in Jamaica ending in a 1-1 tie. Alexander Sanchez scored the opening goal for Peru and Jermaine Hue scored the equalizer for Jamaica.

Burrell has stressed the importance of the encounter and pointed out that the Peruvians, who defeated Canada 2-0 last Saturday, will provide a strong test. In the four internationals played by Jamaica this year, they have won two, defeating Canada 1-0 and Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 while losing 2-1 to two time world cup champions Argentina and 2-0 against South Africa in a hastily scheduled game.

Coach Whitmore is confident that the team will put on a good display. Whitmore also said he has a good group of players he is currently working with. They are not only talented but are loyal, committed and very hardworking. He is very pleased that there is no arguing between team members and that no one player has an attitude. With the respect for each other they are working better together. More on the chat with Whitmore here

In a presentation to be made at the game, Jamaica's Theodore "Tappa" Whitmore and Peru's Nene Cubillas will receiver special recognition awards for their achievements at the World Cup level. Whitmore, Jamaica's most celebrated player is the only Jamaican to score goals at the World Cup. He achieved it against Japan in the 2008 World Cup in France.

Players
Dwayne Miller, Adrian Blake, Dicoy Williams, Jermaine Taylor, Shavar Thomas, Adrian Reid, Lovel Palmer, Jason Morrison, Omar Daley, Eric Vernan, Richard Edwards, Navion Boyd, Keammar Daley, Demar Phillips, Nicholas Addlery, Dane Richards, Ryan Johnson, Omar Cummings, Luton Shelton, Kavin Bryan.Jevaughn Watson (Sporting Central), Jermaine Taylor (St. Georges S.C.), Kenardo Forbes (Waterhouse), Devon Williams (Real Mona)

Jamaica clip Costa Rica at the Office
September 6, 2010

A clinical strike from Ryan Johnson gave the Reggae Boyz a 1-0 victory over their Central American opponent Costa Rica inside the National Stadium last night. The victory was Jamaica’s fourth in 20 encounters against Costa Rica.

From the kickoff, Jamaica showed their intent with a fast start and sustained attack on their opponents. The speed of US-based striker, Dane Richards, gave the Costa Rican defenders problems early on when he stormed down left side and pulled back a cross into the path of Richard Edwards who was quickly shut down.

Jamaica continued to dominate the first 10 minutes, but was unable to create any clear-cut chances. Costa Rica should have taken the lead in the 18th minute, but Manfred Russell's shot from six yards out flew high over the crossbar. Both teams had periods of dominance with Jamaica looking the more comfortable leading up to the halfway mark.

Three minutes after the break, an attack by Jamaica gave Johnson an opening at the top of the penalty box but his shot went flying over the bar. Following the substitution of Kavin Bryam, head coach Theodore Whitmore switched Johnson from the left flank to the centre forward position and it paid off.

On 66 minutes, Johnson out muscled a defender to a long ball, and after settling over the ball inside the area, he hit a beautiful strike into the back of the net. The Boyz almost added a second goal soon after when Demar Phillips' thunderous free kick from about 30 yards out was pushed away by goalkeeper Patrick Pemberton.

Both coaches introduced new players late in the game, with Jamaica making six changes and Costa Rica making five. With the changes, the quality of the game fell but Jamaica held on to their one goal advantage.

The Boyz will leave for Fort Lauderdale today ahead of tomorrow's game against Peru at Lockhart Stadium. Peru is coming off a 2-0 win over Canada and will provide a strong test for the Reggae Boyz.

Team Jamaica — Dwayne Miller, Dicoy Williams, Jermaine Taylor, Adrian Reid, Richard Edwards (Lovel Palmer 81st), Jason Morrison (Kenardo Forbes 90th+), Eric Vernan, Demar Phillips (Troy Smith 74th), Dane Richards (Keammar Daley 69th), Ryan Johnson (Jevaughn Watson 86th), Kavin Bryan (Omar Daley 60th). Subs not used: Andre Blake, Oneil Fisher, Devon Williams.
Join the after game discussion

Strong Reggae Boyz team set to meet Costa Rica and Peru
August 28, 2010
Jamaica have called up ten overseas based players to be in the Reggae Boyz squad for their friendly international against Costa Rica at the national stadium on September 5 followed by a match-up against Peru on Tuesday, September 7 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Both games are part of the Reggae Boyz continuing preparation for their defense of the Digicel Caribbean Cup title in November 2010 and the Gold Cup in 2011, and another step towards getting ready for next year's start of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign.

Costa Rica and Jamaica have met 19 times in the past with Costa Rica proving to be the more successful team on ten occasions. The last time both countries met was last year at the CONCACAF Gold Cup where Costa Rica won 1-0 on a goal by Celso Borges.

The Reggae Boyz supporters in South Florida can expect an entertaining and competitive game when Jamaica meets Peru at Lockhart stadium two days after their game with Costa Rica. Both countries are expected to field very strong teams. The two nations last met back in November 2006 in a friendly at the national stadium in Jamaica that ended 1-1.
In the four internationals played by Jamaica this year, they have won two, defeating Canada 1-0 and Trinidad and Tobago 3-1 while losing to two time world cup champions Argentina and then against South Africa in a hastily scheduled game.

The foreign-based players are Omar Daley (Bradford City), Donovan Ricketts (LA Galaxy), Shavar Thomas (Kansas City Wizards), Ryan Johnson (San Jose Earthquakes), Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids USA), Richards (New York Red Bulls USA), Demar Phillips (Aalesund FC), Jason Morrison (Stromgodset IL) Shelton (Valarenga FC) and Nicolas Addlery (Puerto Rico Islanders). The local contingent includes Richard Edwards (Harbour View), Dicoy Williams (Harbour View), Kavin Bryan (Harbour View), Oniel Fisher (Harbour View), Ricardo Cousins (Portmore United), Adrian Reid (Portmore United), Eric Vernan (Portmore United), Navion Boyd (Tivoli Gardens), Keammar Daley (Tivoli Gardens), Troy Smith (Village United), Oliver Trail (Village United), Andre Blake (Sporting Central), Jevaughn Watson (Sporting Central), Jermaine Taylor (St. Georges S. C.), Kenardo Forbes (Waterhouse), Devon Williams (Real Mona).
Follow the discussions in the forum on Costa Rica and Peru

Dominant Reggae Boyz defeat T&T
August 12, 2010
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz played to comfortable 3-1 win over Trinidad and Tobago's Soca Warriors in their international friendly football match at the Marvin Lee Stadium yesterday. Dane Richards (8th), Rudolph Austin (31st pen) and Kavin Bryan (53rd) scored for Jamaica.

From the opening whistle Jamaica were offensively far more dangerous with quick counter attacks down the flanks and through the centre of the field. Although Jamaica ended the game with 10 men, the home team could not capitalize on the dominant Reggae Boyz whose defenders quickly shut down any attacks from their opponents. The young Soca Warriors team was fortunate not to have lost by a wider margin.

Jamaica went ahead in the eighth minute as a shot from Kavin Bryan deflected to Richards at the top of the penalty area, who then hit a powerful shot into the pigeonhole. The Boyz continued to dominate and should have widened their lead at the 20th minute when Richards at the six-yard line booted the ball over the crossbar

Trinidad and Tobago equalized at the 29th minute when Keon Daniel crossed the ball unchallenged into the Jamaican goal area allowing a fully stretched Jorsling to burst through the centre and guided the ball past the advancing Donavan Ricketts into the goal.

The cheers from the Trinidadian supporters were brought to an abrupt end a minute later as the Reggae Boyz got their second goal when Ryan Johnson was brought down inside the six-yard area by defender Carlyle Mitchell for a penalty. Austin stepped and scored a perfectly placed grounder that went well beyond the reach of Jan Michael Williams in goal.Jamaica secured the victory in the 53rd minute when Bryan executed a well-placed header pass the advancing Williams.

Jamaica's head coach, Theodore Whitmore, praised his team for a very good overall performance in a spirited game with their Trinidadian rivals.

Starting Teams
Jamaica: 1-Donovan Ricketts (C), 2-Richard Edwards,4-Shavar Thomas, 7-Ryan Johnson, 8-Eric Vernan, 9-Kavin Bryan, 10-Dane Richards, 11-Troy Smith, 16-Dicoy Williams, 17-Rudolph Austin.
Trinidad and Tobago: 21-Jan Michael Williams (GK), 3-Aklie Edwards, 4-Kerry Baptiste, 6-Keston Williams, 7-Hughton Hector, 8-Trent Noel (C), 9-Devon Jorsling, 16-Makan Heslop, 17-Carlyle Mitchell, 19-Keon Daniel. More in the Forum

Reggae Boyz to do battle against Trinidad & Tobago
July 11, 2010

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), has confirmed that the Reggae Boyz will be back in action on August 11 with the first of two international friendly games against Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago.

In an interview with Captain Horace Burrell, president of the JFF, as reported by the Jamaica Observer, he confirmed the two games with the first being away in Port of Spain on August 11, and the return in Kingston on October 10.

It was reported that both countries intend to field their strongest available teams but it is unlikely that either country will have the services of their British-based players due to pre-season training with their individual clubs. Do you think this game is helpful? Let us hear your viewpoint in the forum

These games are part of the JFF’s plan to prepare Jamaica’s football team for their Brazil 2014 World Cup campaign. In three games so far, the Boyz had a 1-0 win over Canada inside the National Stadium on January 31, then loss 1-2 to Argentina on February 10, followed by a 0-2 loss to South Africa.

Burrell is expected to make further announcements regarding other international friendly games as soon as they can be confirmed. There are six FIFA dates remaining on the 2010 calendar -- August 11, September 3 and 7, October 8 and 12 and November 17.

Forum member Lannyd posted recently in the forum that Coach Theodore Whitmore is ”focusing on fitness, but he needs to emphasize tactics and player self control just as much, if not more.
Do you agree?. Let us hear your viewpoint in the forum
See pictures of the Reggaeboyz encounter with T&T in June 2008

JFF calls 25 for CAC training
May 31, 2010
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) have called twenty-five players to camp in preparation for the 2010 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games scheduled for July 17-August 1 in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico.

Coach Theodore Whitmore will work with the players over a six day period before making his final selection for the tournament. The squad includes 12 returning players from the last camp along with new invitees Allan Ottey, who previously trained with the senior Reggae Boyz ahead of a friendly international against Canada, Theo Brown and John Ross-Doyley who were in the Jamaica's team to the FIFA Under-20 World Cup qualifiers last year.

The men's event is an under-21 age restricted and the players called to camp are Romeo Parkes (St Georges), Odean Clarke (Muschett High, Holland United), Marvin Morgan (Boys Town), Alonzo Adlam (Sporting Central), Oraine Braham (Cornwall College, Mountain Villa), Jhamie Hyde (Harbour View), Peter Harrison, Dane Kelly (Tivoli Gardens), Jerome Eccleston, Dino Williams, Allan Ottey (Village United), Theo Brown, Darren Mattocks, Andre Clennon (Waterhouse), Jason Johnson, Dwayne Brown, Junior Neil, Romena Bowie (Mile Gully), Gareice McPherson, Andrae Campbell, Andre Darby, John-Ross Doyley, Andre Vanzie (Portmore United), Carl Reid, Devon Williams (St George's College).

Central America will get four teams in each of the men's and women's soccer competition. Host Puerto Rico and three teams from the Caribbean will comprise the rest of the men's field. Jamaica is drawn alongside Panama, Mexico and St Vincent. The second group will comprise Trinidad and Tobago, Costa Rica, Belize and host Puerto Rico. More in the Forum

World Cup Host South Africa stops Jamaica 2-0
April 28, 2010
World Cup hosts South Africa defeated Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz 2-0 in a friendly international at Kickers Offenbach Stadium on Wednesday.

Veteran striker Surprise Moriri took advantage of poor defending by Jamaica, scoring in the 51st minute off a cross to give Bafana Bafana their first win in four international games. Siyabonga Nomvete added a second five minutes from full-time when he pounced on a pass from team mate Andile Jali and shot pass Jamaican goalkeeper Dwayne Kerr.

Jamaica came in as a last-minute replacements for China, arrived in Germany just 10 hours before the kick-off with a squad of mostly home-based players. They found themselves on the defensive two minutes into the match as a header from Moriri was brilliantly parried by Kerr for a corner.

The Reggae Boyz quickly responded and surprised the world cup bound South Africa with speed and quick counter attacks that resulted in two good scoring chances in the first thirty minutes. The first half ended 0-0 with Jamaica looking very promising.

Six minutes into the second half the Jamaican defenders failed to cut off a non-threatening cross and and gave Moriri a gift to beat Kerr with a low shot. Substitute Andile Jali then sealed the game giving South Africa the win over the tiring Reggae Boyz. The three previous encounters between the two countries ended in draws...Read more in the Forum

Real Madrid Football School for Social Integration to be launch in Jamaica
April 25, 2010
The highly anticipated 'Real Madrid Football School for Social Integration' is a step closer to reality for many young Jamaican footballers as the academy is set launch in Jamaica on April 27.

The proposed football school brings its concept of "educating young people through the values of sport", which is the foundation of the Real Madrid’s network of schools for social integration. The school is touted to be the first of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean and will extend its sports education, community and social service to young people in underprivileged situations.

The academy will be located on 18 acres of land in the Rose Hall area donated by the John Rollins Foundation and was made possible through a collaborative effort from the Spanish-Jamaica Foundation and the Spanish club. Construction will take place in three phases. The first phase will include the building of an administration building, changing rooms and two full-length football fields.  Phase two will involve an additional field, an entertainment complex along with a merchandising area. The final phase will conclude with the construction of dormitories.

Emilio Butragueno, the current director of institutional relations for the Spanish mega club and a former Real Madrid striker, will launch the first phase during his April 26-28 visit to the island along with other representatives of Real Madrid. The signing of an agreement among its partners, the Spanish-Jamaican Foundation, Rose Hall Developments Limited and the Real Madrid Foundation, is also planned.

Former Reggae Boyz goalkeeper, Aaron Lawrence was designated to guide the establishment of the academy, which will welcome 50 youngsters between the ages of 7 and twelve in its first intake. Lawrence and his team of coaches, which includes Linval Wilson, Granville Clarke and Reggae Boy Fabian Davis, will scout the schools and communities in the region to identify potential talent. More in the forum

Harbour View FC and "Reggae Boyz" goalkeeper, Dwayne Miller signs 2 year deal with Syrianska FC, in Sweden Division 1!
March 19, 2010
Ever since the goalkeeper Simon Nurme signaled that he was leaving Syrianska FC, they have been hunting for a new goalkeeper and now have found someone who comfortably fills the spot.

He is the Harbour View FC and Jamaica's "Reggae Boyz" goalkeeper, Dwayne Miller, who auditioned for the team during a two week period. Negotiations with the 22-year-old Jamaican's Club has been successful, and now it has been agreed and signed.

Miller has merit from the game with Jamaica's U-20 team since 2007, where he has been at 12 caps, and with the Jamaican national team, where he has been 10 games since 2008.

In 2005 he joined the Harbour View Football Club, winning the Premier League, CFU Caribbean Cup, Under 21 League also playing in CONCACAF Champions League and Cup before topping both the Goalkeeper's, MVP Youth Award and Best Goalkeeper, in the 2009 Premiership. It is from HVFC he is now coming to Syrianska FC.

"Dwayne is an amazing talent, he is resilient and did well in the short game. In addition, he has the right age, there is a future in him. Then there are obviously some things he needs to work with, and it will be up to our goalie coach Berndt Magnusson to do" said coach Syriac Özcan Melke Michel. "SFC is happy that all documents are now ready, so that Miller could be on the training camp in Turkey as the team travels on Saturdayl", said Ghayath Moro - team leader of the club.

Jamaican-British representative, Romel Wallen, of Pro-Goal Sports Management Limited created the opportunity for the Dwayne and the Clubs. More in the forum

Argentina squeeze 2-1 win over Jamaica
February 12, 2010
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz fell to late goals by Martin Palermo and Ignacio Canuto as Argentina fought back to a 2-1 win in an international friendly Wednesday at the Jose Minela stadium outside of Burnos Aires.

The Reggae Boyz were on the defensive for much of the game against Argentina playing without most of the European-based players that are expected be in its World Cup squad later this year in South Africa.

Jamaica hushed the stadium when they surprised the host with a header from Ryan Johnson to take the lead early in the second half. Although it was evident that Argentina was the better team, the Reggae Boyz had a few more chances to put the ball in the net.
The Reggae Boyz seem to focus on holding its lead, with most of its players settling back and defending.

Argentina found the equalizer seven minutes from time with a glancing header by Boca Juniors forward Palermo off a free kick.  The most heart breaking moment for the Boyz came when Canuto, who came on as a substitute in the final minutes, scored the winner in injury time.

JAMAICA: Dwayne Miller; Shavar Thomas, Lovel Palmer (Dane Richards, 63), Jermaine Taylor, Adrian Reid; Rodolph Austin, Richard Edwards, Navion Boyd (Demar Stewart, 63), Keammar Daley (Jevaughn Watson, 69); Omar Cummings (Jason Johnson, 90) y Ryan Johnson (Devon Hodges, 78).

Argentina: Nelson Ibanez; Gabriel Mercado (Ignacio Canuto, 89), Mariano Echeverria (Matias Caruzzo, 71), Leonel Galeano (Nicolas Gaitan, 54), Fabian Monzon; Patricio Toranzo, Juan Mercier, Walter Acevedo (Jesus Mendez, 60), Federico Insua; Franco Jara (Gabriel Hauche, 46), Martin Palermo.
Referee: Victor Hugo Ribera Chavez (Peru).More in the Forum

Boyz faces powerhouse Argentina
February 10, 2010
Fresh from their 1-0 victory over Canada, the Reggae Boyz will take on two time world cup winner and South American powerhouse, Argentina, in the resort town of Mar del Plata at the Jose Minela stadium at 10:30 pm (8:30 pm Jamaica time)

President of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Captain Horace Burrell, stressed that the players were getting a great opportunity to play against Argentina in Argentina and that they should get out there and to do their best. Burrell also placed an emphasis on the importance of the game to the development of Jamaica's football program.

Jamaica, ranked 78 by FIFA, last played Argentina on June 21, 1998 at the Parc des Princes in Paris, France, in a Group H FIFA World Cup Finals preliminary round encounter where they were soundly beaten 5-0. In Wednesday game, Argentina will be without many of their stars as head coach, Diego Maradona, will use the opportunity to take a look at additional players to fill his World Cup Finals 23-man roster. Argentina be in Group B of the South Africa World Cup Finals alongside Nigeria, Korea Republic and Greece.

Manchester High schoolboy Jason Johnson is the only newcomer included in the Reggae Boyz 18-man squad which includes four MLS players , Omar Cummings (Colorado), Ryan Johnson (San Jose), Dane Richards (New York) and Shavar Thomas (Philadelphia) Also in the squad are Duwayne Kerr, Dwayne Miller, Rodolph Austin, Demar Stewart, Navion Boyd, Keammar Daley, Jermaine Taylor, Dicoy Williams, Adrian Reid, Lovel Palmer, Richard Edwards, Devon Hodges, JeVaughn Watson, and Jason Johnson.

Boyz win 1-0 over Canada
January 31, 2010
Jamaica's Reggae Boyz outplayed Canada to win 1-0 at the National Stadium in Jamaica. Luton Shelton scored the only goal midway the second half, just before he was substituted. Canada was fortunate not to have lost by a larger margin as they were totally dominated by Jamaica who squandered numerous chances.

Jamaica got off to a quick start, attacking and forcing their opponents to play a defensive game. They kept up the tempo and should have been at least a goal up before the first half ended.  The Jamaica supporters were rewarded in the 68th minute when Shelton collected a pass Omar Cummings and hit a firm grounder that eluded Canadian goalkeeper David Monslave at his near post for the only goal of the game.

Team Jamaica --Dwayne Miller, Tyrone Marshall, Shavar Thomas, Jermaine Taylor, Jason Morrison Ryan Johnson 71st), Rodolph Austin (Richard Edwards 79th), Eric Vernan (Kenardo Forbes 74th), Demar Phillips, Luton Shelton (Navion Boyd 70th), Omar Cummings (Keammar Daley 79th), Devon Hodges.Subs not used: DuWayne Kerr, Rafe Wolfe, Adrian Reid, Lovel Palmer.

Boyz tackle Canada
January 31, 2010
The 2014 Brazil World Cup campaign is the focus of Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz senior team when they meet CONCACAF neighbor Canada in a friendly international at the National Stadium at 6:00 pm.  The Canadians are also in a rebuilding phase as both teams were eliminated in the CONCACAF semi-final qualifying stage of the FIFA World Cup to take place in South Africa this summer.

The game will give both coaches, Jamaica’s Theodore Whitmore and Canada’s Trinidadian-born Stephen Hart, a chance to experiment and assess their players as no points are at stake.

Canada have proven difficult for Jamaica in the past, winning seven of the 15 contests between the two teams. Five games have ended in draws with Jamaica winning on three occasions. The last time the two teams met was in July last year at the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup in Los Angeles, California. The Canadians won 1-0 after Jamaica dominated but squandered numerous chances.

The Reggae Boyz have been in training for the past two weeks, with Whitmore and his assistant, veteran Bradley Stewart putting an emphasis on the importance of shooting. The Canadians had a 10-day training camp in South Florida, before arriving in the island late Friday. They suffered a mild setback yesterday as their key midfielder Dwayne De Rosario suffered a calf strain and had to pull out of the team.

Leading the Reggae Boyz will be veteran utility player Tyrone Marshall, one of the older members of the squad, and he will be partnered by Shavar Thomas and Jermaine Taylor in defense, ahead of Dwayne Miller in goal. The midfield will be occupied by Rodolph Austin and Jason Morrison in the centre, flanked by Demar Austin and Eric Vernon, while the front line will have Devon Hodges, Luton Shelton and Omar Cummings. The rest of the squad is a mix of local players under 25 years who have been generally playing fairly well and regularly in recent international fixtures.

Current ranking for the teams are Canada 56th in the world and Jamaica at 81. Read more in the forum

Boyz to play Canada at the Office
Dec 19, 2009
The Reggae Boyz will play an international on home soil for the first time in seven months when they meet CONCACAF rivals Canada at the National stadium on Sunday January 31, 2010.

That game will also serve as the launch of the country’s 2014 World Cup campaign.
The Reggae Boyz, who like their opponents, are still smarting from their failure to qualify for the historic 2010 World Cup in South Africa are eager to put on a treat for the local fans who have not seen them up close for over half a year.

“I am looking forward to a very active year so we could test and evaluate the players who we believe could be a part of the 2014 World Cup campaign. It is important that we start early as we all remember what happened the last time. Now we cannot afford to be left behind,” Theodore Whitmore, head coach of the national team said.

“For this game and the others to follow we will be looking to have the strongest possible group of players available to us,” added Whitmore who was in charge the last time the Reggae Boyz played Canada on local soil. Then the Reggae Boyz thumped Canada 3-0 but came up short on goal difference.

Expected to be involved in the Jamaican squad for this fixture are United States-based professionals such as Donovan Ricketts, Shavar Thomas, Dane Richards and Omar Cummings as well as those who ply their trade in Scandinavia. Rodolph Austin, Khari Stephenson, Demar Phillips, Jason Morrison, Rafe Wolfe, Eric Vernan, Luton Shelton and Adrian Reid are already in the country and should be available for selection. Local-based players such as Devon Hodges, Keammar Daley, Jermaine Taylor, Dicoy Williams, Richard Edwards and Navion Boyd could also feature.

Canada, who recently confirmed the Trinidad-born Stephen Hart as head coach following their creditable run in the Gold Cup which included a 1-0 win over Jamaica, are expected to field a strong squad as well. Prior to the game they will have a two-week camp in Fort Lauderdale, Florida before flying into Jamaica on January 29.

Whitmore, whose Boyz had 10 international matches in 2009, will also have the Boyz in a training camp starting in early January. Join the discussion in the forum

Jamaica hold South Africa to goalless draw
Nov 17, 2009
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz held World Cup hosts South Africa to a lacklustre 0-0 draw before 15,000 spectators at Vodacom Park, South Africa.

Jamaica, playing in their green and black kit had the kickoff against the green and gold of South Africa who started by passing nicely and having the better of ball possession early in the game, making several advances in their opponents half.  Jamaica’s goalkeeper, Dwayne Miller, was called into action 10 minutes into the game when he was forced to use his right foot to block a close-range shot from Katlego Mphela, forcing it out for a corner.

In the 22 minute, against the run of play, Jamaica countered and came close to scoring when Dane Richards skillfully evaded three defenders, played the ball past goalkeeper Rowan Fernandez, but saw his chance cleared off the line by captain Aaron Mokoena.
South Africa came back a few minutes later testing the Jamaican keeper as he tipped a well hit free kick by Benni McCarthy wide of the post. The Reggae Boyz again threatened just before the end of the first half with a well-taken free kick that wizzed over the cross bar.

South Africa had the better of play n the second half but due to poor finishing and lack of firepower, they helped the Reggae Boyz to keep the score  line even. South Africa’s coach, Carlos Alberto Parreira, was critical of Jamaica’s second half play as he criticized them for creating too many stoppages that killed the rhythm of the game. The coach of the Jamaica, Theodore Whitmore, felt that his team gave up too much space in the first half but were better organized in the second and seemed satisfied with the performance of his young team.

Jamaica - Dwayne Miller, Jermaine Taylor, Shavar Thomas, Dicoy Williams (Adrian Reid 80th), Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Eric Vernon 66th), Demar Phillips, Rodolph Austin (Richard Edwards 76th), Jason Morrison, Jermaine Johnson (Navion Boyd 76th), Dane Richards (Lovel Palmer 84th), Devon Hodges (Omar Cummings 71st).Subs not used: Shawn Sawyers, Keammar Daley, Bryan Bayliss
Booked: Austin (44th), Thomas (56th), Morrison (59th)
Read more in the forum or comment on the game

GAME STATS: Shots on Goal (SA 9 - JA 3), Shots on Target (SA 4 - JA 2),  Corners (SA 15 - JA 5), Fouls (SA 12 - JA 14), Offsides (SA 6 -JA 1), Yellow Cards (SA 2 - JA 3), Red Cards (SA 0 - JA 0), Possession % (SA 54 - JA 46)

Jamaica to face South Africa in football friendly
Nov 14
Jamaica's 20-man senior Reggae Boyz football team arrived in South Africa, where they will face the FIFA 2010 World Cup host in a friendly international at Vodacom Park in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. The 85th-ranked South Africans are using the game to fine-tune their preparations for next year's World Cup.

The Reggae Boyz squad is composed of a blend of local-based talent and available overseas players. The Jamaican based players are goalkeepers Shawn Sawyers and Dwayne Miller, Jermaine Taylor and Dicoy Williams, Richard Edwards, Lovell Palmer, Navian Boyd, Keammar Daley, Brian Bayliss and Devon Hodges. They are joined by MLS counterparts and  Chivas USA defender Shavar Thomas, Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids) and Dane Richards (Red Bulls). Completing the group are European based Adrian Reid, Eric Vernan, Demar Phillips,  Jermaine Johnson (Sheffield Wednesday), Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Burnley) and Jason Morrison (Ferencvaros).

Coach Theodore Whitmore and his players are confident and determined to have a good performance against a strong South African team with Brazilian tactician Carlos Alberto Parreira at the helm. Whitmore said his players had worked hard and well together in training and that this game is an opportunity to show that they can compete with anybody.  The South Africans will play Japan on Saturday before tackling the Reggae Boyz at Vodacom Park in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.

The Jamaican contingent also includes Garfield Sinclair (head of delegation), Bradley Stewart (assistant coach), Warren Barrett (goalkeeper coach), Howard Bell (team manager), Juan Pablo Camargo (masseur), Dr Mark Sanderson (team doctor), Norman Stone (equipment manager), Nodley Wright (press officer) Jason Morrison. Join forum discussion

John Barnes sacked by Tranmere Rovers
Oct 10
Former Jamaican coach, John Barnes, was sacked as manager of League One club Tranmere Rovers. Barnes, along with his assistant Jason McAteer, took charge at Prenton Park in June, had just two wins in 11 league games, leaving the struggling Rovers 22nd in League One. He has been temporarily replaced by Physio Les Parry.

There is a topic on the Forum from Tranmere fan ROVERS to Please take him back as he has not got a clue on how to manage a football league club, You can read more of what Rover had to say here. Not to be outdone, Forum modertor JAMATL called for support for John Barnes in his losing battle. Should we support Barnes because he is a Jamaican or because of his skills as a manager. Give your opinion here


Burrell expresses alarm about spectators disturbances
Oct 11
The president of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), Captain Horace Burrell, is upset with the recent spectator disturbances at schoolboy football matches. At the Jamalco Football League awards ceremony in Clarendon, Burrell express his alarm at incidents which caused disruptions at games and issued a stern warning to the Inter-Secondary School Sports Association (ISSA) for them to implement measures to fix the problem. You can read more on this topic


U-17 Reggae Girlz gear for CFU leg of World Cup qualifiers
The head coach of Jamaica’s women’s football, Vin Blaine has called up 18 U-17 girls to take part in the Caribbean leg of the World Cup Qualifiers, beginning October 12 in Curacao. The group includes 10 players from the 2008 Under-15 team which won the inaugural Caribbean Football Union (CFU) tournament held in Trinidad and Tobago.The young Reggae Girlz will meet Aruba on October 12, Dominican Republic on October 14 and finally against the Netherland Antilles on October 16. Read More

$84.5-million sponsorship package for Digicel Premier League
Sept 3, 2009
The 2009-2010 Digicel Premier League (DPL) season was launched yesterday at the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) headquarters in New Kingston with a confirmed sponsorship package of $84.5m in cash and kind from at least 10 corporate companies. The overall package is $10m less than last year's $94.5m, with main title sponsor, Digicel, increasing their share from $45.5m to $49.5m.

Although the DPL has lost one of its primary sponsorships due to the harsh economic climate, the league has gained a few new ones.  Former title sponsors Wray and Nephew Limited is contributing $10m, split evenly in cash and kind, while Wisynco, with its brand Wata, have committed $7m in cash and kind.  Other sponsors are the Jamaica Observer ($4m), CVM TV (undisclosed), Gatorade ($2.9m), Lockerroom Sports ($3.9), Jomo ($1m), Klas FM ($950,000) and JUTC ($5.1m).  Edward Seaga, chairman of the Premier League Clubs Association (PLCA), said that the amount is expected to increase as negotiations are in progress with other potential sponsors.

Also announced was the formation of a joint company - Football Jamaica, between the JFF and the PLCA, which will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the league. The JFF will however still be responsible for disciplinary matters.

CVM TV won the rights to broadcast the DPL games which will kick off on Sunday with defending champion Tivoli Gardens hosting new boys Humble Lions.  As part of its initiative, CVM TV will air during prime time, a one-hour magazine program covering all aspects of the game.

Captain Horace Burrell, president of the JFF, urged spectators attending this season’s matches "be on their best behavior" and “to conduct themselves in a way that would befit a wonderful launch”

TheReggaeBoyz.com is encouraging fans to submit reports and feedback to the forum about their team and game day play so fans abroad can keep up with the action. Read More in the forum

Reggae Boyz defeat St Kitts & Nevis 1-0
August 14, 2009
In a sub-par performance, Jamaica's Reggae Boyz sneaked out a 1-0 win over St Kitts & Nevis in their international friendly at the Warner Park Stadium last night.

A Devon Hodges strike in the 55th minute saved the new look Reggae Boyz from total embarrassment in a contrasting display to their excellent performance against Ecuador on Wednesday. Supporters of the Jamaican team left the stadium disappointed as the Boyz never looked motivated in front of approximately 5,000 spectators.

Although the Reggae Boyz dominated most of the first half, it took them almost 20 minutes to get a shot on goal with midfielder JeVaughn Watson's 20-metre drive going just wide of the target. Missed chances by Devon Hodges and debutante Deshaun Woolery of Seba kept the score 0-0 at half time with Jamaica out shooting St Kitts & Nevis six shots to one.

On the resumption Harbour View's Palmer came close as volleyed onto the crossbar from six meters with only the goalkeeper to beat. Jamaica finally took the lead 10 minutes into the half following a series of nice passes which ended with Hodges scoring from just outside the area. St Kitts & Nevis pressed hard to equalize and came close on a couple of occasions in the closing minutes of the game as Jamaica held on for the win.

Team Jamaica - 01-Shawn Sawyers (13-Dwayne Miller 60th), 03-Jermaine Taylor, 16-Dicoy Williams, 14-Linval Lewis, 02-Richard Edwards, 12-JeVaughan Watson (17-Andre Campbell 74th), 08-Lovel Palmer, 19-Oraine Simpson (09-Ricardo Cousins 63rd), 20-Deshaun Woolery (07-Evan Taylor 78th), 05-Devon Hodges (21-Peter Keyes 76th), 10-Keammar Daley (11-Michael Campbell 65th).
Add your comments in the Forum

Ecuador, Jamaica end in scoreless draw
August 13, 2009
Jamaica's Reggae Boyz played to a 0-0 tie with Ecuador in their international friendly last night at the Giants Stadium in New York. In the first game of the doubleheader Venezuela beat Colombia 2-1.

A estimated crowd of 23,523 watched as Jamaica's Dwayne Miller made seven saves as both teams battled in an evenly contested and entertaining game. Ecuador'Carlos Tenorio and Joao Rojas both had goals disallowed because the goals were called offside.

Although Ecuador had the better chance3s, the new look Reggae Boyz team were very competitive, matching their opponents and pressing Ecuador's Jose Francisco Cevallos to stop seven shots.

Forum member Technic was at the game and said " I was pleasantly surprised at how well they played". Another member, Ric who watched game by feed stated in the forum "I could see that Jamaica played well within the context of what needs to be worked on or developed". Not as impressed with the young team was Crick who said the team had " No shape, no maturity, nothing was gain from this game except Morrison showing his class above the rest".

The Reggae Boyz will next play Caribbean neighbors St Kitts and Nevis on August 16 in St Kitts.
Add your comments in the Forum

Jamaica to face 36th-ranked Ecuador
August 10
Following Jamaica's first-round exit from the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States, Jamaica's Reggae Boyz will face 36th-ranked Ecuador on August 12 at Giants Stadium in New York, followed by Caribbean neighbors St Kitts and Nevis four days later in St Kitts.

Jamaica will enter the game against Equador without the core of their English-based players as captain Ricardo Gardner (Bolton), Ian Goodison (Tranmere), Damion Stewart (Queen's Park Rangers), Claude Davis (Derby), Jamal Campbell Ryce (Barnsley), Ricardo Fuller (Stoke City), Marlon King (Wigan) and Jermaine Johnson (Sheffield United) will all be missing in action.

Coach Whitmore said he would be turning his attention to locally based players for the two friendly internationals but was not happy after learning that a number of local players called were overseas playing in the Bronx League. Whitmore thinks this is a good opportunity for the local players to step up to the plate and stake their claim. He said they must choose what they want to do, as often there are questions as to why certain players are not called for games. Whitmore added that he is confident the local players can get the job done.

Returning to the squad are promising defender Jermaine Taylor coming off a season of inactivity due to the transfer struggle between Harbour View and St George's FC, and midfielder Lovel Palmer who last represented Jamaica two years ago against Iran. The final squad is a blend of players based in Scandinavia, the United States and includes:

Goalkeepers: Donovan Ricketts (LA Galaxy/USA), Dwayne Miller (Harbour View/JAM)

Defenders: Jermaine Taylor (unattached), Rudolph Austin (Sportsklubben Brann/NOR), Shavar Thomas (Chivas USA/USA), Tyrone Marshall (Seattle Sounders FC/USA), Rafe Wolfe (Ferencváros/HUN)

Midfielders: Demar Phillips (Aalesunds FK/NOR), Khari Stephenson (Aalesunds FK/NOR), Jason Morrison (Ferencvárosi TC/HUN), Erick Vernan (Portmore United/JAM), Lovel Palmer (Harbour View/JAM), Navian Boyd (Tivoli Gardens FC/JAM)

Forwards: Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids/USA), Dane Richards (New York Red Bulls/USA), Luton Shelton (Aalborg BK/DIN), Keammar Daley (Meadhaven/JAM), Devon Hodges (Rivoli United/JAM)

The opening game of the double header will feature South American neighbors, Colombia against Venezuela at 6:30 PM, followed by Ecuador vs. Jamaica. All three South American countries are using the match-ups to fine-tune preparation ahead of the last two rounds of South America's World Cup 2010 qualifiers scheduled to begin the first week of September.
Add your comments in the Forum

What now for the Reggae Boyz?
July 14, 2009
by shaggybear
I have been on this site for 9 years, having first posted in 2000 (though my info shows otherwise for some reason). Yet this is the first time I was left wondering about what we had to look forward to.

Four or so years ago, I could still follow Fuller, Gardner, Johnson, Goodison, Lowe, Burton, even Davis and see how they were carrying our flag in the English leagues. It was fun because I knew I would see these stars showing up for us on the pitch internationally.

I don't whether this will be the case anymore, as we know that while the accomplished players will show up for bigger tournaments, they will not show for smaller stuff...and their respective clubs will help by providing heavy incentive for them not to appear. Since most players are older, it seems they are now, effectively, done. I had a special affinity for these players since many were in my age range or just a few years younger.

I am worried we are on the cusp of collapsing with the way things have gone over the past 5 years. Burrell, Boxhill and Burrell have done little to inspire confidence. Burrell, in particular, certainly is not the "visionary" people were claiming him to be. I said just prior to Boxhill's departure that it appeared there was little to no difference between the two in terms of running the JFF...maybe for different reasons, but the result was the same. The only thing Burrell had to offer in my view was his FIFA, COCACAF and CFU connections, connections cemented, in part, by some of the almshouse related to a support for Sepp Blatter. Those connections were good, but they also worked against Jamaica when Burrell was told he could not run the JFF. So we are now left with Burrell, whose vision has led us to the state where we are now with nothing on the horizon.

Well, I am not in a position to do anything about it, so I will have to live with it. I don't know who we have coming up that is displaying any top class promise...maybe Austin. JCR will be there in the future. Zavon Hines? Nosworthy? (who for reason never got a call - I hope there is more to that story that has not been told). Cummings? Obrien White? Anyone else. I guess I am just going to have pull out the couch and ease back and watch and see over the next 2 years of absolutely nothing going on. Comment on this article in the forum

Win gives Boyz chance of advancing to the Gold Cup quarterfinals
July 11, 2009
Jamaica kept a slim chance of advancing to the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Gold Cup as one of the best third-placed teams following their 1-0 win over El Salvador at the Florida International University stadium.

Omar Cummings scored with a flick of his right foot in the 70th minute to give Jamaica three points, the same as El Salvador. Both teams trail Canada on seven points and Costa Rica on four. The Reggae Boyz will now have to wait for the results of the other two groups Saturday and Sunday to see if Jamaica advances.

In a game which neither side created much scoring chances, Jamaica had more possession but both sides seemed mired in a midfield battle on the artificial turf at FIU Stadium. The Boyz appeared disjointed especially in attack as poor team play killed the few chances generated in the game. Cummings had the best chance for either team before the goal, when he broke free near the top of the penalty area and unleashed a right-footed shot that Salvadoran goalkeeper Miguel Montes had to stretch to tip it wide of the far post.

Jamaica's Reggae Boyz went ahead when Luton Shelton created space on the left, turned and curled a low, bouncing cross to the near post, where Cummings had worked inside Alexander Escobar and just managed to redirect the ball between Montes and the upright.

If the Reggae Boyz do advance to the quarter-finals to be played in Dallas, Texas, and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, then they will do so without three players - Oneil Thompson, Tyrone Marshall and Jermaine Johnson - who were cautioned last night to add to earlier cautions in the first two games.

Jamaica - Donovan Ricketts, Shavar Thomas, Tyrone Marshall, Oneil Thompson, Jason Morrison, Ricardo Gardner, Demar Phillips, Jamal Campbell-Ryce, Luton Shelton, Ricardo Fuller, Omar Cummings. Subs not used: Dwayne Miller, Eric Vernon, Rafe Wolfe, Damion Stewart. Booked: Thompson (54th), Marshall (65th), Johnson (90th) More in the forum

Jamaica fall to Canada in Gold Cup opener
July 4, 2009

Jamaica had a negative start to the 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup as they lost to 1-0 Canada in their opening game of the tournament at the Home Depot Center.

In a game that neither side could gain control, Jamaica can blame the loss on a combination of poor finishing and some questionable substitutions by head coach Theodore Whitmore.

The first half saw the Reggae Boyz very patient in possession and at time forcing the Canadians to defend heavily against Jermaine Johnson who carved his way through the Canadian team on several occasions and almost scoring twice.

In the 24th minute, Johnson picked up a pass from Luton Shelton and worked his way around a defender and curled a low left footed shot that rolled inches wide of the far post. Minutes later, Johnson again stormed his way through Canada's defense to the edge of the six-yard box where he was brought down. He turned to American referee Terry Vaughn looking for a penalty but only saw a yellow card for what Vaughn considered a dive.

One of Jamaica's best opportunities came when captain Ricardo Gardner received a neat pass on the edge of the opponents' penalty box, but the skipper's weak, side-footed shot was easily smothered by a grateful Greg Sutton in goal. Another wasted chance came when errant pass went straight to Shelton midway the half, but the striker hurried his shot, which was easily saved by the retreating Sutton.

The best chance of the game went to Ricardo Fuller who appeared off form throughout the game. Fuller found himself with only Sutton to beat, but the striker hesitated for far too long and the goalkeeper easily stopped the shot.

It wasn't until the 75th minute that one team finally broke through with a magnificent strike from Ali Gerba who smashed a side volley across the goal line for what proved to be the only goal Canada needed.

Reggae Boyz defender Tyrone Marshall summed it up well saying "I thought we played well, but it was unfortunate not to put our chances away and it came back to bite us."

Head coach Theodore Whitmore will be questioned for substituting Jermaine Johnson, undoubtedly Jamaica's best player on the pitch and Rodolph Austin who was the 'engine' of the team and playing a solid game. Neither substitution produced a positive impact on Jamaica's game and Canada capitalised on the break in Jamaica's rhythm.

Six yellow cards were issued by American referee Terry Vaughan, five to Jamaica (Claude Davis, Jermaine Johnson, Luton Shelton, Demar Phillips, and O'Neil Thompson) and one to Canada (de Guzman). Jamaica will now try to regroup for their match against Costa Rica on Tuesday.

Jamaica: 1 - Donovan Ricketts (GK), 14 - Tyrone Marshall, 4 - Claude Davis (22 - Omar Cummings 81st), 3 - Damion Stewart, 17 - Rodolph Austin (20 - Oneil Thompson 71st), 7 - Jason Morrison, 16 - Jermaine Johnson (8 - Jamal Campbell-Ryce 75th), 12 - Demar Phillips, 15 - Ricardo Gardner (capt.), 10 - Ricardo Fuller, 11 - Luton Shelton. More in the forum

Gardner, Fuller called to Reggae Boyz's Gold Cup camp
June 15, 2009
Newly appointed head coach of Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore has call up a squad of 23 players for a local pre-Gold Cup camp which will run until Saturday, June 22. National captain Ricardo Gardner and Stoke City striker Ricardo Fuller will join up with the national team along with Tivoli Gardens midfielder Sheldon Palmer, who has earned his first invitation to the Reggae Boyz group.

Whitmore took over the coaching reins from former Liverpool and England midfielder, Jamaican John Barnes.  Barnes was hired in November after the JFF fired Brazilian Rene Simoes, and has led the Reggae Boyz to a winning record of five wins and four draws along with winning the Digicel Caribbean Cup in December.

Barnes, who will be leaving to take up an offer with English League Two club Tranmere Rovers said  "Ideally, I'd loved to have stayed for the Gold Cup, but I respect the decision of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) in giving Theodore Whitmore sufficient time to prepare the team for what will be a tremendous task."  The decision not to renew Barnes’ contract has been a topic of debate in TheReggaeBoyz.com forum as some discuss if Whitmore will be held at the same level of accountability as Barnes? Some members have even suggested that Barnes should run for the presidency of the JFF. Give us your views in the forum.

Also recalled to the Gold Cup squad are Roland Dean and Jerry Walters from Tivoli Gardens and  Portmore United’s Eric Vernan and Brian Bayliss. The squad will be trimmed at the end of the local camp on Saturday.

Players called: Goalkeepers - Dwayne Miller (Harbour View), Duwayne Kerr (Portmore United);
Defenders - Damion Stewart (Queens Park Rangers, UK), Claude Davis (Derby County,UK), Adrian Reid (Portmore United), Oraine Simpson (Tivoli Gardens FC), Eric Vernan (Portmore United), Desmond Breakenridge (Arnett Gardens FC), Ian Goodison (Tranmere Rovers, UK), Rafe Wolfe (Ferencvaros, HUNGARY);

Midfielders - Ricardo Gardner (Bolton Wanderers, UK), Jermaine Johnson (Sheffield Wednesday, UK), Jason Morrison (Ferencvaros, HUNGARY), Richard Edwards (Harbour View), Jerry Walters (Tivoli Gardens FC), Sheldon Palmer (Tivoli Gardens FC);

Forwards - Ricardo Fuller (Stoke City, UK), Luton Shelton (Aalborg, DENMARK), Bryan Bayliss (Portmore United), Roland Dean (Tivoli Gardens FC), Devon Hodges (Rivoli United), Keammar Daley (Meadhaven United) and Navian Boyd (Tivoli Gardens FC). Read more on Jamaican football in the forum

Jamaica defeats Panama 3-2
June 8, 2009
A come from behind 3-2 win by Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz over Panama, a team they have not defeated in 40 years, gave fans something to cheer about last night at the National Stadium. The victory also gave outgoing head coach John Barnes, who was appointed head coach last November, an unbeaten end to his contract as head coach. He will be heading back to England to take up the manager's job at Tranmere Rovers.

Panama took a surprise lead against the run of play, when they beat an offside trap deep in Jamaica’s half and their striker drove home a powerful right-footer past a diving Duwayne Kerr in goal. Jamaica pressed hard for the equalizer but was kept at bay by a strong Panamanian defense.

The Reggae Boyz supporters got something to cheer about on the stroke of half time as Jermaine Johnson received a pass midway his own half and skillfully beat the defender marking him and then accelerated between two more opponents and shot home from just inside the box. The half ended 1-1.

After almost giving up a goal immediately on the resumption, Jamaica kept pressuring their opponents and eventually reaped the rewards it deserved.

Five minutes into the second half, goalkeeper Mejia failed to hold a Jamal Campbell-Ryce cross from the right side and a lurking Desmond Hodges blasted the loose ball into the goal. It was the first goal at the senior level for Hodges in only his second appearance.

Panama found the equalizer in the 81st minute when substitute Luis Tejada scored a close range header from a right-sided cross that split the central defenders.

In what seemed like a stroke of luck as play could have been called back for an offside,
Daley got lucky as his shot bounced into the goal to end in a good victory against Panama.

Team Jamaica - Duwayne Kerr, Damion Stewart, Desmond Breakenridge, Demar Phillips (Rafe Wolfe 41st), Oraine Simpson, Jason Morrison (Khari Stephenson 69th), Rodolph Austin, Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Navion Boyd 76th), Jermaine Johnson, Desmond Hodges (Keammar Daley 80th), Luton Shelton (Nicholas Addlery 67th).
Subs not used: Dwayne Miller, Adrian Reid, Richard Edwards.
Booked: Phillips (24th), Morrison (45th+), Austin (57th), Stewart (62nd), Campbell-Ryce (76th), Johnson (ejected 90th+). More in the forum

El Salvador and Jamaica play to scoreless tie
May 31, 2009
Jamaica' Reggae Boyz and El Salvador played to a 0-0 tie in an international friendly match on Saturday night at the RFK stadium

Playing in front of over 30 thousand mostly El Salvador supporters, Jamaica stretched their unbeaten run against their Central American rivalsr to six.The team of mostly local-based players put on a much better performance than that of their 2-2 display against Haiti in Fort Lauderdale a week ago.

Although El Salvador controlled much of the early play, the Reggae Boyz were able to penetrate their opponents defence on a number of occasions. In the 19th minute, Jermaine Johnson's free kick into the El Salvador box just missed his team mates and in the 23rd minute a beautiful pass from Johnson to Nicholas Addlery was wasted as he slipped on the edge of the 18-yard box.

The Boyz went on the attack again in the 45th minute when Roland Dean sent a promising pass to Tivoli teammate Boyd, but the final shot rolled wide of target. Johnson had a clean shot at Montes in the 59th minute, but the goalie smothered it. He also stopped a shot from Oraine Simpson in the 83rd minute.

The Reggae Boyz will play their third match in the build up for the Gold Cup against Panama in Jamaica on Sunday June 7 at 6:00pm at the national Stadium.

Jamaica: GK- 13- Dwayne Miller, RB- 8-Eric Vernan (17- Oraine Simpson 76th), LB – 18-Rafe Wolfe, CB-6- Adrian Reid, CB – 3-Damion Stewart, RM- 12- Jermaine Johnson, LM – 9- Navian Boyd (10 – Wolry Wolfe), CM – 7 - Jason Morrison, CM – 2 - Richard Edwards, F - 4- Nicholas Addlery (5- Hodges 67th) and F- 11 - Roland Dean (16 – Keammar Daley 81st). Subs- Shawn Sawyers, Dicoy Williams, Oraine Simpson, Wolry Wolfe, Keammar Daley, Devon Hodges, Michael Campbell, Andre Campbell. More in the forum

Late goal gives Jamaica 2-2 tie against Haiti
May  24, 2009
A late goal by Damion Stewart helped Jamaica's Reggae Boyz to come from behind in their 2-2 tie against Haiti on Saturday night at the Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The Reggae Boyz went ahead in the 28th minute when Nicholas Addlery picked up a through ball but saw his first attempt on goal blocked by the Haitian keeper Peterson Occenat deep in the goal area. Addlery then picked up the rebound and neatly converted from inside the six-yard box.

For most of the game Jamaica lacked cohesion and had problems containing a more determined Haitian team. It paid off for Haiti in the 39th minute when Raymond Ednerson and Jean Robens Jerome combined to make the score 1-1.

The problems continued for the Reggae Boyz as they lost defender Claude Davis to a second yellow card for a foul on Haiti midfielder Vaniel Sirin in the 44th resulting in Davis' ejection.

Haiti then took the lead in the 65th minute when Jerome received a pass from Ednerson on the left wing and beat Jamaica’s goalkeeper Shawn Sawyers giving Jerome his second goal.

Jamaica was able to breathe a sigh of relief in the 88th minute as a long free kick from Jason Morrison found a charging Stewart near the left post and he headed it pass past goalkeeper Peterson Occenat the Haitian goal.

Both teams used Saturday's match as preparation for the Gold Cup that begins in July. Jamaica will next play Central America’s Panama at the National Stadium in Jamaica on June 7. Read more in the forum

Jamaica to play warm-up games against Haiti and Panama
April 19
The president of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Captain Horace Burrell has disclosed that Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz will see friendly international action against Caribbean rivals Haiti on May 23 and against Central America’s Panama on June 7.

The Reggae Boyz senior team last saw action on February 11 when they played to an entertaining 0-0 tie with Nigeria's Super Eagles in London. The matches between Haiti and Panama will provide the Reggae Boyz with a chance to play some warm-up games ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup which runs from July 3-26 in 13 US cities.

Jamaica will meet Haiti at the Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and the organizers of the game expects a large crowd as it will be played on the USA Memorial Holiday Weekend. The Reggae Boyz may not have their strongest team for this game as it will not be played on a FIFA-sanctioned date. The game will provide an opportunity for coach John Barnes to take a look at some of the better local players to use alongside the available overseas based players as they prepare for the Gold Cup.

In contrast to the Haiti game, all the top foreign-based Jamaican players will be available for the match against a tough Panama team to be played at the National Stadium, in Jamaica. It is expected that Panama will field their overseas-based players from Spain, South and Central America and will try to test the character of the Boyz. It will also be a clash between the two Digicel regional champions as Jamaica won the Digicel Champions Cup, while Panama won the Digicel Central American Championship. The last time the two teams met in a friendly international at the National Stadium on March 26, 2007, the game ended in a 1-1 draw.

The action starved Reggae Boyz fans will get a chance to see UK-based Ricardo Gardner (captain), Ricardo Fuller, Damion Stewart, Marlon King, Omar Daley, Jermaine Johnson, Ian Goodison, Claude Davis, Jamal Capbell-Ryce; Scandinavia-based Luton Shelton, Demar Phillips; US Major Leaguers Tyrone Marshall, Donovan Ricketts, Dane Richards, Omar Cummings and France pro Tyrone Mears, who made his debuted against Nigeria.

Captain Burrell said that they are hoping to create an atmosphere inside the National Stadium similar to a World Cup qualifying match as they know that the fans have been starved of high quality football, and he believe this match-up will provide fireworks for the fans. Both teams were eliminated from the World Cup qualifying campaign at the semi-final stage and along with Haiti will look to redeem themselves at the CONCACAF Gold Cup in the USA.

At the Gold Cup, Jamaica will compete in Group A with Canada, Costa Rica and El Salvador. Group B will see USA, Honduras, Haiti and Grenada while Panama contest Group C along with Guadeloupe, Mexico, Nicaragua. Read more in the Forum

Jamaica Football Federation cuts salaries and fires U-20 coaches
March 29, 2009
In a series of cost-cutting measures by the Jamaica Football Federation, members of the administrative and technical staff have agreed to take a pay cut, ranging from five to 20 per cent. Among those hit by a 20% reduction in their salary are head coach John Barnes and general secretary Horace Reid.

Barnes took over the leadership of the senior men's team from Brazilian Rene Simoes last November after a disastrous start to the Reggae Boyz World Cup campaign. He later led Jamaica to victory in the Digicel Caribbean Cup and to a 0-0 draw in a friendly international against Nigeria in London. Since then the senior Reggae Boyz team has been inactive and Barnes is back home in England which is cost effective for the JFF as there are no accommodation cost and additional expenses. Barnes next official tournament is the Gold cup scheduled to take place in the USA July 3-26.

Barnes was said to be very understanding with the current financial crisis and has accepted the reduction in his salary. After discussing it with JFF president Captain Horace Burrell, he agreed to accept the same level of cut as general secretary Horace Reid.

In other cost cutting measures, Jamaica's Under-20 football team head coach, Donovan Duckie, and his assistant, Lenworth Hyde Sr, were officially relieved of their duties following the poor performance and elimination of the the junior Reggae Boyz's during the final round of CONCACAF Under-20 World Cup qualifiers in Trinidad and Tobago last month.

According to JFF president, after the federation's technical committee's examination of the teams performance, he had no choice but release the coaches from their duties. The Under-20 team to the Youth World Cup in Egypt was a project in which the JFF had invested heavily and "people in charge must bear the brunt and face the consequences of their performance" Burrell said.

This latest round of cost cutting follows that done in November of last year after the elimination of the Mens team from the World Cup qualifiers in the semi-final round. On that occasion the entire coaching staff of the women's national program after the national was let go. Read more

Boyz bounce back with 2-1 victory
March 9, 2009
Jamaica's U-20 Reggae Boyz kept their youth World Cup hopes alive after defeating El Salvador 2-1 at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Tobago yesterday

Despite playing the second half with nine men the young Boyz were able to get the better of their opponents after both teams were locked at 1-1 at half time.

Jamaica got off to a good start when Romario Campbell scored in the eighth minute as he latched onto a pass from Alanzo Adlam and fired pass Diego Cuellar in goal. El Salvador rebound almost immediately as they equalized three minutes later with a goal from Herbert Arnold Sosa who found space inside the box and put one past goalkeeper Andre Blake.

A crunching tackle on striker Dever Orgil in the 32nd minute from Nelson Rivera saw El Salvador getting the first red card of the game.

Jamaica soon found themselves on the wrong side of the ref six minutes later as their captain Andre Derby picked up a red card leaving both teams with a man short. Things seemed to get worst for the young Reggae Boyz as on the stroke of halftime Orgill was sent off.

Jamaica found the winner in the 56th minute, when the diminutive Adlam got around the goalkeeper before calmly slotting home.

In the other game, a 10-man USA and Honduras ended drew 0-0. The result puts the USA, who beat Jamaica 3-0 in the opening game, on top of the group on four points, followed by Jamaica on three, Honduras on two and El Salvador on one.

A win for the Jamaicans in their final game of the tournament will ensure them a spot to the next round as the top two teams from each group will advance to the FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be played in Egypt from September 24 to October 16 this year. Read more in the Forum

Reggae Boyz hold Nigeria to 0-0 draw
The Reggae Boyz and the Super Eagles of Nigeria played out a 0-0 draw in a friendly international before 5,000 fans in London. The game was overshadowed by the sending off of Jamaica's Jermaine Johnson and Taye Taiwo of Nigeria two minutes before half-time.

Both teams started cautiously in opening 15 minutes without either side having a clear cut opportunity in front of goal. It was Jamaica who threatened first after a superb run by Jermaine Johnson created a great opportunity as the ball flashed across goal. This was followed by both Luton Shelton and Demar Phillips failing to convert opportunities from close range.

Nigeria came close to scoring on a few occasions but they also saw their chances not finding the net. With four minutes to go before half-time Taiwo and Johnson were dismissed by referee Mike Dean after a scuffle at the touchline. The half is ended with Nigeria pressing The Reggae Boyz.

With both teams playing a man short, the second half was more open with Nigeria showing more attacking intent. Nigeria came very close with an Obinna free kick that Osaze should have scored and Luton Shelton replied with a one on one with the keeper could have put the Boyz ahead. With 18 minutes remaining, Jamaica almost stole the game when Wolry Wolfe's shot was`blocked but Wolfe just couldn't get his balance to follow up with a second effort. Jamaica's coach John Barnes said that his teams performance was just what he expected against a very good Nigerian side that played with a lot of composure, a lot of skill and a lot of cohesion.

Below is a full game running commentry compliments of the Barnsley Website at http://www.footballbarnsley.co.uk

It is a real carnival atmosphere inside and outside the ground. Jamaica are playinging in their familiar yellow and Nigeria in all white.
A fast paced opening 15 minutes without either side having a clear cut opportunity in front of goal. There may only be a few thousand in the ground but the noise is fantastic.
25: Austin and Johnson combined well to feed the ball through to Marlon King but the linesman was quick to flag for offside
27: A superb run by Johnson created a great opportunity as the ball flashed across goal only needing King to get a touch to score. From the corner the ball nearly came to SHelton to poke in from 3 yards but Austine was first to it.
28: Nsofor Obinna takes a corner that falls nicely onto Osaze head and he gets good contact, but it goes a yard over. At the moment Nigeria's attacks seem to get to the final third of the pitch and break down. You can't help feeling that Campbell-Ryce would suit the type of game at the moment and hopefully he will be on at the start of the second half.
32: Nigeria get a shot on target but it lacked pace and was straight at the Jamaican number two keeper Sawyers.
40: Good build up play by Nigeria, patient and stroking the bal around until Obinna brings down Claud Davis after mis-controling the ball.
42: The half is ending with Nigeria pinning back the Jamaican team in their half.
44: Drama at the New Den. Handbags at high noon with Jermaine Johnson for Jamaica getting a straight red for pushing the linesman and Taiye Taiwo off for Nigeria for some bad temper!
Half time
Campbell-Ryce starts the second half.
50: Nigeria come very close with an Obinna free kick that either Apam or Osaze should have scored and at the other end Shelton one on one with the keeper could have got a goal himself for Jamaica
51: Campbell-Ryce nearly carves an opening for Shelton as he is only just beaten to the ball by the Nigerian keeper.
52: A back pass lands Jamaica in trouble as the Eagles have a free kick in the area, but the wall does an effective job.
54: Obinna delivers another good free kick and once again Osaze is close to getting the opener.
56: It's close again as Sawyers makes a good save for Jamaica. Attendance is 5,078.
57: Campbell-Ryce goes on a familiar mazy run and completes the move with a long back heel to a Jamaican player, but at the moment it is Nigeria creating the good chances.
59: Obinna delivers a great corner and brings out a superb save from Sawyers.
60: Wow! Sawyers is on fire for Jamaica with another outstanding save to keep the Reggae Boyz in it.
67: Campbell-Ryce is bossing the midfield for Jamaica. I think he could have made a real difference in the first half.
68: If Jamaica come out of this game with a draw they will have Sawyers to thank. He has kept them in it at least three times in the second half.
70: Danny Shittu takes a long range punt and is about three feet wide. Good effort and worth a try.
75: Jamaica nearly stole a goal there with Wolry Wolfe's shot just about saved by Austine, rebounding and Wolfe just couldn't get his balance to follow up with a second effort.
79: The games is being stretched now as both sides look hungry for a win.
84: Jamaica have made 7 substitutions so far, just Vernon and Miller not on.
85: Scary moment for Jamaica as Nigeria broke free, but the Reggae Boyz defence has been very good tonight
86: Wolfe turns and shoots quickly, but just wide.
88: Campbell-Ryce lets a flyer go off his boot, but again a couple of feet wide.
90: Nigeria try one last go at goal with two minutes added time remaining. Obinna looks like he has been shot and wins a free kick near the corner

Reggae Boyz hit by injuries ahead of Nigeria encounter
February, 8, 2009
Jamaica's Reggae Boyz squad set to face the Super Eagles of Nigeria next Wednesday, February 1, has been hit by injuries and a number of key players are questionable for the game. The friendly international is slated to be played at The New Den stadium in London, home of championship side Millwall Football Club (FC).

Affected by pre-season training injuries are Tyrone Marshall of the Toronto FC and number one goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts. Ricketts aggravated an old finger injury during Galaxy's a training session at the Home Depot Center and will not see any action in the game. Harbour View goalkeeper, Dwayne Miller, was drafted into the Reggae Boyz squad to replace the injured Donovan Ricketts and will now compete with Portmore's Shawn Sawyers for the starting spot.

Another early withdrawal was new comer to the team, Darren Pratley, of English championship club Swansea City. Pratley suffered a serious injury to his shoulder in their recent 4-1 win over Preston and will have to wait a little longer to make his debut for the Reggae Boyz as he is set for a 10-week lay off.

Forward, Ricardo Fuller, who plays for Stoke City, could miss the rest of the season after suffering a dislocated shoulder against Sunderland. Fuller, who is the Potters' top scorer this season with six goals, landed awkwardly in Saturday's game and manager Tony Pulis fears that he will be sidelined for at least three months.

Another key player that is likely to miss action is stalwart defender Ian Goodison, who could face a lengthy lay-off after sustaining an ankle injury in a tackle recently in a League One encounter. Manager Ronnie Moore stated that if Goodison sustained ligament damage he could be out for five to six weeks.

Also questionable is defender Ricardo Gardner of the Bolton Wanderers as he was a late on starter in Boltons game against Everton on Saturday. It was reported that Gardner is suffering from a sore knee and may be rested for the Nigeria game.

Coach John Barnes will have to scramble to fine solid replacements for his injury hit squad as Nigeria has vowed to Roast Jamaica, and all the invited players have indicated their readiness to honor the match to prove their superiority. Barnes will have to rely on the experience and firepower of strikers Luton Shelton and Marlon King to take the attack to the Eagles. Both strikers have recently made loan moves with Shelton moving from Valerenga in Norway to Aalborg in Denmark and King going from Hull City to Middlesbrough in the English Premiership.

In midfield, Demar Phillips will be looking have a strong performance as a way solidify his position with the Boyz and to impress his new team, Aalesunds FK in Norway, a recent move he made from Stoke City.

Hoping to make a strong debut as he joins the Reggae Boyz for the first time is the pacy wingback Tyrone Mears who is on loan from Championship side Derby to Olympique Marseille in France. Mears, along with defender Claude Davis, also on loan deal from Championship rivals Derby County to Crystal Palace, could be used to strengthen the Jamaican back line thanks to their Premier League experience.

Reggae Boyz Squad: Goalkeepers - Dwayne Miller (Harbour View FC), Shawn Sawyers (Portmore United); Defenders - Ricardo Gardner (Bolton Wanderers) questionable, Ian Goodison (Tranmere Rovers) unlikely, Tyrone Marshall (Toronto FC) unlikely, Claude Davis (Derby County), Damion Stewart, (Queens Park Rangers), Tyrone Mears (Marseille, France), Eric Vernan (Portmore United); Midfielders- Rodolph Austin (SK Brann), Jason Morrison (Ferencvaros), Jermaine Johnson (Sheffield Wednesday), Demar Phillips (Aelesunds, Norway), Omar Daley (Bradford City), Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Barnsley);Forwards - Marlon King (Middlesbrough), Dane Richards (Red Bull New York), and Luton Shelton (Aalborg, Denmark). Read more on the game in the Forum

Reggae Boyz Name Squad for Nigeria Friendly
Jan. 16, 2009
The Jamaica Football Federation and their Nigerian counterparts have agreed to final terms for the highly anticipated international friendly match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Reggae Boys of Jamaica. The game is scheduled to be played at the New Den Stadium in London, England on February 11, 2009.

Nigeria opted to play Jamaica after their initial plan to play Ghana in preparation to the forthcoming final phase of the 2010 FIFA World Cup/African Cup of Nations failed to materialize. The game is a perfect opportunity for the Reggae Boyz as they plan to play friendly internationals on all the available FIFA dates during the year and the JFF announced that they have called two newcomers for the Jamaican lineup.

Twenty-five year-old defender Tyrone Mears and 23-year-old Darren Pratley, a midfielder were included in the squad of 20 named . Mears, a right wingback who is listed at 5’10, is currently on loan at French club Marseille. Described as a pacy player, Mears was previously attached to Manchester city and West Ham before moving to Derby County from where he was loaned to Marseille.

Pratley, a six-footer, is a midfielder who started his career at Arsenal before joining Fulham where he made his professional debut. He was loaned out to Brentford before being signed by Swansea City.

Former England and Liverpool legend and Technical Director of the Reggae Boyz, John Barnes, has drafted the Liberty Stadium midfielder into his squad that is largely made up of overseas-based players. Only goalkeeper Shawn Sawyers and defender Eric Vernan, the most valuable player in the Digicel Caribbean Championships, the finals of which were held in Jamaica in December, are locally-based. Goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts, recently signed by Major League Soccer (MLS) team LA Galaxy was also named in the team.

In four previous meetings between two teams, Jamaica (66th in latest FIFA rankings) have won once, lost twice and drawn once. Nigeria were 1-0 winners in May 2002 in a friendly tournament in England, Six months later, the Boyz visited the Africans on the continent and came away with a 0-0 scoreline. In 2003, the Jamaicans hosted the Eagles in Kingston winning 3-2. In another friendly tournament in England in 2004, saw Nigeria blanked the Boyz 2-0.

Nigeria, ranked 17th by FIFA, has named a 24-man squad for the London showdown. It includes goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Dele Aiyenugba; defenders Daniel Shittu, Joseph Yobo, Obinna Nwaneri, Taiye Taiwo, Chidi Odiah, Adeleye Ayodele, Onyekachi Apam, Olubayo Adefemi; midfielders John Mikel Obi, Kalu Uche, Paul Obiefule, Sani Kaita, Seyi Olofinjana, Femi Ajilore, Yusuf Ayila; forwards Nwankwo Kanu (captain), Ikechukwu Uche, Obinna Nsofor, Osaze Odemwingie, Joseph Akpala, and Michael Eneramo.

Jamaica squad is: Goalkeepers - Donovan Ricketts (LA Galaxy), Shawn Sawyers (Portmore United); Defenders - Ricardo Gardner (Bolton Wanderers), Ian Goodison (Tranmere Rovers), Claude Davis (Derby County), Damion Stewart (Queens Park Rangers), Tyrone Marshall Toronto FC), Tyrone Mears (Marseille, France), Eric Vernan (Portmore United) , Midfielders- Rodolph Austin (SK Brann), Jason Morrison (Ferencvaros), Jermaine Johnson (Sheffield Wednesday), Demar Phillips (Stoke City), Omar Daley (Bradford City), Jamal Campbell-Ryce (Barnsley), Darren Pratley (Swansea City); Forwards - Marlon King (Hull City), Dane Richards (Red Bull New York), Ricardo Fuller (Stoke City) and Luton Shelton (Valerenga). Read More In The Forum

Jamaica wins Caribbean title to claim next-to-last berth in CONCACAF U-20 Championship
Jan. 14, 2009
Jamaica secured the next-to-last berth in the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship by beating St. Vincent & the Grenadines 2-0. The victory put the young Reggae Boyz atop the four-team showdown. St. Vincent finished second with six points and still has a chance to qualify for the CONCACAF finals, facing Honduras in a two-leg playoff for the last berth in the March 6-15 championship in Trinidad & Tobago.

At the draw for the next round of the CONCACAF U-20 Championship, the young Reggae Boyz were drawn in Group A alongside the United States of America (USA), El Salvador and the winner of the play-off between Honduras and St Vincent. Head coach of the Under-20 team, Donovan Duckie, said he was pleased with the teams that Jamaica have been grouped with following drawing of the group at CONCACAF's headquarters in New York.

The top-two teams from the group will advance to the semi-final round which effectively will seal their place in the FIFA Under-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 which runs from September 25 to October 16, 2009. Group B will consist of CONCACAF kingpins Mexico, Costa Rica, Canada and hosts Trinidad and Tobago.

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has named a 27-man squad in preparation for the final round. The players called are Goalkeepers Andre Blake (Clarendon College, Sporting Central Academy), Dennis Taylor (Reno FC), Gariece McPherson (Portmore United); defenders Lynval Wilson (Reno FC), Andre Campbell (Portmore United), Andre Darby (Portmore United), Keithy Simpson (Sporting Central Academy), Leaunghn Williams (Lennon, Sporting Central Academy), Christopher Banner (Sporting Central Academy) Damaine Thompson (Rusea's High, Bamboo FC), Sean Fogah (Garvey Maceo, Portmore United); midfielders Romario Campbell (Harbour View), John-Ross Doyley (Glenmuir, Portmore United), Theo Brown (Waterhouse FC), Romeo Parkes (St George's SC), Andre Steele (Bridgeport High, Harbour View), Keniel Hyde (Meadhaven FC), Kadian Wynter (Sporting Central Academy), Evan Taylor (Reno FC), Davion Thorpe (Reno FC); forwards Dever Orgill (Vancouver Whitecaps), Roy Forbes (Arnett Gardens FC), Andre Clennon (Waterhouse FC), Shamar Shelton (St George's College, HVFC), Kemal Malcolm (St George's College, Meadhaven FC), Shavon Brown (Glenmuir, Portmore United) and Alanzo Adlam (Sporting Central Academy).

Read more 2009 Jamaica Football News