REGGAE Boy Adrian Mariappa says the recent fan turnout for the Concacaf Nations League game against Honduras at National Stadium in Kingston gives him hope about the relationship between the team and its fanbase.

The Reggae Boyz defeated Honduras 1-0 on Friday in front of a turnout at National Stadium that, Mariappa and Head Coach Heimir Hallgrímsson said, seemed larger than normal. No official number on the attendance was given on the turnout.

The team was so appreciative of the support that a number of players went over to the fans supporting in the bleachers on the far side of the technical area to applaud them. Goalscorer Demarai Gray says teammate Leon Bailey thought it fitting and asked the players to pay their respects to the fans.

Mariappa says seeing how they, in turn, responded was pleasing.

“I’ve been in the stadium when it’s packed out and there’s no better feeling than being in that environment,” he said. “It’s hard for opposing teams to come and play against us as well. Going forward, we need the support, we need the love, and we need everyone to come together.

“It’s probably the fullest I’ve seen the stadium in a little while so hopefully we can just keep that momentum going with good performances, winning games, and hoping more people will come out and show their support as well.”

Hallgrímsson also voiced his appreciation.

“I didn’t know what to expect, Mapps [Mariappa] would know that better,” he said. “But I really liked it. I hope we get more support in future games because it can affect referees’ decisions and it can give us this one per cent that we need to win the match. We’re asking people to come. We’ll do our best, hopefully; they will do their best as well.”