Jamaica’s early first half goal proved enough to earn Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz a share of points in a 1-1 draw with Mexico in Kingston recently and place in next year’s CONCACAF Gold Cup.
Jamaica Aston Villa winger, 24-year-old Leon Bagley struck in the fourth minute to hand the host the early lead in the Group A contest of a League A at the National Stadium before Luis Romo equalized in first half stoppage.
Major League Soccer standout goal-keeper Andre Blake made a string of top saves to preserve the scoreline as Jamaica climbed to the top of the group on five points, while remaining unbeaten in three outings.
Jamaica were also left to rue several missed chances, however, Shamar Nicholson twice coming close while Bailey came within inches of adding a second goal.
And the hosts should have doubled their lead in the ninth minute when Junior Fleming’s corner found Nicholson in the box but the Spartan Moscow forward could only find the crossbar with his leaping header. Blake twice kept out Mexican attempts at the other end before Bailey came close to his second goal, driving down the right and cutting inside before sending a curling left-footed shot inches around the far post from 15 yards.
Jamaica was left cursing their missed opportunities when Mexico drew level with the final kick.
