KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Professional Football Jamaica Limited (PFJL) said the preseason clash between Arnett Gardens and Waterhouse set for Monday at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex will go ahead despite the 48-hour curfew being imposed on sections of the community.

The curfew, which began at 8am on Sunday and will remain in effect until 8pm on Tuesday, October 17, was implemented following Saturday evening’s killing of Damani Taylor, otherwise known as Hutchie Pang, who was shot dead in a section of the community known as ‘Back a Wall’.

READ: Community ‘don’ shot dead in Arnett Gardens

Residents said he was a don from the ‘Top Jungle’ section of the community.

The Heroes Day clash dubbed the “Boom El Clasico” would have been affected by the curfew but chief executive officer of the PFJL, Owen Hill, said they have received the green light for the match to go ahead.

“We are aware of the concerns regarding the game; however we want to reassure the public that security clearance was provided by the local police high command,” said Hill.

He also said increased security measures will be in place to ensure the safety of the players, staff and patrons of the event.

“Boosted security efforts within the stadium and its surrounding environs will be enacted in order to provide the necessary assurance for the patrons. Looking forward to the unwavering support,” Hill said.

The match is scheduled for 6pm.

It is the second staging of the Boom El Clasico, which is one of the curtain raisers for the Jamaica Premier League season which kicks off next Sunday.

Arnett Gardens will be looking to retain the title after beating Waterhouse on penalties in the 2022 edition.