Nail-biting! - Tivoli, Montego Bay in 2-2 thriller

BY HOWARD WALKER Observer senior reporter walkerh@jamaicaobserver.com

Monday, January 30, 2012

MONTEGO Bay United are proving that they belong in top-flight football after being held to an exciting 2-2 draw by champions Tivoli Gardens in their Red Stripe Premier League match at the Edward Seaga Stadium last evening.

After falling behind to a Christopher Nicholas third- minute strike, Montego Bay United rallied and looked all over the victors until an own goal denied them maximum points with another dominant display.

The tall Kemiro James netted in the 21st minute before the competition's joint leading marksman, Mauricio Gordon, headed home his ninth goal of the season in the 66th minute.

But the champions would not be denied and after brilliant work by the skilful Mario Swaby, who dismissed his maker with disdain, released Mitchily Waul down the flank and his low cross was deflected into the back of the net by Winston Wilkinson for an own goal in the 80th minute.

Tivoli Gardens, with their fourth drawn game at home and their ninth overall, remained in third spot on 36 points, five adrift of the leader Portmore Unted, who were scheduled to play Sporting Central Academy in a late kick-off.

The surging and promoted Montego Bay United, formerly Seba Unted, climbed into sixth spot for the first time this season with 32 points and extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches inclusive of the triumph over Portmore United in the Second End-of-Round final last Monday.

Under the guidance of Brazilian coach Neider dos Santos, Montego Bay United's passing game has won fans far and wide and have been dubbed the "best team" in the league.

Tivoli Gardens were not totally outplayed and in fact, could have snatched victory had substitute Jameel Thompson converted with one of the the last kicks of the game. With only goalkeeper Jacomeno Barrett to beat, he kicked wide in time added.