Posted on September 8, 2012
Needless to say, Jamaica was elated over its stunning triumph over the United States.
It was the first time in 19 tries that the Reggae Boyz defeated the Americans, a 2-1 loss in a World Cup qualifier at The Office in Kingston, Jamaica on Friday night.
“It is a very historic night for me,” Jamaica coach Theodore Whitmore told the Jamaica Star in its Saturday editions. “What I have never done as player, I have done it as a coach. I am very elated.
“I knew that we have the team to do the job, it is just the support and the belief that we needed. I think that once we get the support, we can climb mountains.”
Striker Luton shelton, who plays professionally in Turkey, struck for the game-winner goal off a 28-yard free kick in the 62nd minute. It was his 34th international goal, the most in Jamaican soccer history.
“This is my most important goal for Jamaica,” Shelton was quoted by the Star.
Interestiingly, Shelton did not want to take the free kick. Shelton said he was not a free-kick taker, but he said he had asked Rodolph Austin, who scored the hosts’ equalizing goal on a free kick, to take the attempt about 15 times.
“He said ‘no,’ ” Shelton told the Star. “but I really believed I could do it and he finally gave me the chance. It’s shocking what happeend and I am just really happy that we were able to get the win.”
The Reggae Boyz held on and secured three vital points in their march toward Brazil 2014.
“It’s very emotional,” Shelton told the Star. “The country wanted us to beat the U.S. and we went out there and did our job. I want people to believe in this team.”
Photo: Theodore Whitmore: “I knew that we have the team to do the job, it is just the support and the belief that we needed. I think that once we get the support, we can climb mountains.” Photo by Michael Lewis
Categories: Caribbean, Jamaica, U.S.A., World Cup Qualifying
Tags: Jamaica Star, Luton Shelton, Theodore Whitmore, World Cup qualifying
Loading ...
