Cavalier leads in JPL semis, Mt Pleasant and Arnett Gardens tied
KINGSTON, Jamaica – Cavalier FC has taken a slim lead over champions Harbour View, while Mt Pleasant FA and Arnett Gardens are locked at 2-2 after Monday’s first leg of the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) semi-finals at Sabina Park.
Cavalier shook off their loss in the final of the Lynk Cup KO to Portmore United and Friday to take a lead going into Sunday’s return leg, but Harbour View, who lost to Dunbeholden in the consolation final, were losing back-to-back games.
Orlando Russell’s 51st-minute goal was enough for Cavalier FC as they sought to return to the final for the second time in three seasons.
Arnett Gardens came from behind twice to earn a 2-2 draw against Mt Pleasant FA in the second game.
The on-form Leonardo Rankin scored in his third straight playoff game when he gave Mt Pleasant the lead in the 18th minute with a header from a cross.
Shai Smith equalised for Arnett Gardens in the 30th minute when he headed home as well and the teams were tied at the halftime break.
Trivante Stewart scored in the 63rd minute to restore Mt Pleasant’s lead but Fabian Reid was in the right place to score Arnett Gardens’ second three minutes later.