LAST season, Montego Bay United (MBU) dealt with a roller coaster campaign which saw them miss the Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) play-offs for the third-straight season. However, under new Argentine Head Coach Rodolfo Zapata the former national champions look set to break the drought and possibly challenge for the title.

Zapata, who has had coaching stints in the United States, Canada and Africa, was named head coach of the St James-based club last July, following the departure of Brazilian Neider Dos Santos.

After 15 games under his tactical leadership, MBU are currently second in the JPL on 31 points. They have suffered only two defeats. In contrast, the club started last January on just 12 points, five points above the relegation zone.

Since their return to the league in 2022 the four-time champions have not made the play-offs, coming closest last season with a seventh-place finish behind Waterhouse on goal difference.

However, Zapata says he’s confident the club will challenge for the title this year.

“Don’t forget that last season was out of the top six because of goal difference. Now we’re fighting for top three and that’s my goal — to qualify for the top six and qualify for the top two,” he said.

“This is a long process — and we need to trust that process — but we can’t forget that last season we were out of the top six, so it shows more details make a big difference.”

Zapata, though, is urging MBU supporters to remain patient despite the steady growth shown over the last few months.

“Remember that our chairman, Yoni [Epstein], took the team only one year ago, so in football there are no miracles and no shortcuts. So, it’s a process — we need to go and keep working. Our supporters should be very proud of our boys,” Zapata said.

Summer signings Shaniel Thomas and Demario Phillips have made an immediate impact, along with veterans Owayne “Turtleman” Gordon and Brian Brown.

Although the winter transfer window officially opened on Wednesday, Zapata says additions may not be necessary.

“I’m so happy with the players we have but that’s a decision of the board members. To build a winning organisation we need to have the best coaching staff, excellent players, and the board members are working hard to give us what we need,” he said.

With the regular season extended to 38 games, MBU have 23 games left to play so as to determine their league placing.

Zapata says the club must continue their good form as they seek to achieve success.

“That’s the point, to win every single [game]. I come with a winning attitude because I truly believe in the players I have. So when you have quality players, my job is simple once I have the support of the board members, fans, and the players respond on the pitch,” he said.

MBU are to kick off 2025 by hosting Chapelton Maroons on Sunday at Montego Bay Sports Complex at 5:30 pm.

— Daniel Blake