KINGSTON, Jamaica — Reigning champions Cavalier SC began their Jamaica Premier League title defense in dramatic fashion, securing a 2-1 comeback victory against rivals Portmore United at Sabina Park on Sunday. Despite falling behind early in the match, Cavalier demonstrated resilience and capitalized on an own goal to claim all three points.
Portmore United, who had bested Cavalier twice in last season’s encounters, took the lead in the 19th minute when Tarick Ximines found the back of the net. Cavalier wasted little time in responding, however, as Jalmaro Calvin struck the equalizer just six minutes later, leveling the score at 1-1.
The turning point came in the 60th minute, when Akeem Mullings of Portmore United inadvertently sent the ball into his own net, handing Cavalier the decisive lead. The defending champions held firm for the remainder of the match, earning a hard-fought victory to kick off their season on a positive note.
In other Jamaica Premier League action, Vere United bounced back from their season-opening defeat to Montego Bay United with an impressive 3-1 win over Molynes United. Vere started the match brightly, with Roshawn Oldfield opening the scoring in the 11th minute. Molynes quickly responded through Jeremy Nelson just two minutes later, but Vere regained control when Denzel McKenzie restored their lead in the 25th minute. Romarion Thomas sealed the victory with a late goal deep into stoppage time.
Promoted side Racing United secured their first-ever win in the Premier League, edging Dunbeholden FC 1-0 thanks to a 40th-minute strike from Mikyle Williams. After narrowly losing their debut match against Waterhouse FC, Racing United were determined to make a statement, and Williams’ goal proved to be the difference in a tightly contested match.
Meanwhile, Humble Lion and Tivoli Gardens played out a goalless draw, with neither team able to break the deadlock in a closely fought encounter.
As the Jamaica Premier League season gathers momentum, Cavalier SC, Vere United, and Racing United will look to build on their victories, while other teams aim to regroup in the coming weeks.
