Runners-up in the last edition of the CFU Girls’ U14 Challenge Series Puerto Rico kicked off their 2023 campaign with a 3-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago. The teams were playing in the Tier I Group Q opener at the ABFA Technical Center in St. John’s, Antigua on Saturday.
Puerto Rico were in full attacking mode from the whistle, with excellent dribbling and passing skills in the middle of the pitch. The first build-up came seconds into the match when Caroline Rivera Micheo assisted a beautifully timed through ball onto the boot of Selymar Centeno Sierra, which allowed a forceful hit straight into the back of the net.
Trinidad and Tobago struggled to build momentum in the first half of the match, which caused them to be stuck more on defense than attacking. Captain Mackeemar Goodridge and Mia Lee Chong, however, displayed great confidence on the pitch, which kept the Soca Warriors’ hope alive.
Camryn Smith of Puerto Rico had a show of athleticism and endurance throughout the match, working on both offensive and defensive plays. Her agility on the pitch was unmatched, which was an added benefit for her team. The Puerto Rican goalkeeper Camelia Marín Cestero made some incredible saves, denying Trinidad and Tobago any opportunity to get on the score sheet.
In the 48th minute of play and from a throw-in came the second goal of the match for Puerto Rico’s super-sub-Camila Adame, when she crossed a left footed ball into the 6-yard box and over the head of the goalkeeper.
With one minute of extra time remaining, the Puerto Ricans were awarded a penalty. Bryana Laboy Vega stepped up for her team and confidently put the ball at the back of the net despite the brilliant effort of goalkeeper Akeila Marryshow.
The Puerto Ricans will continue their quest of being the U14 champions when they face Jamaica on Sunday. Trinidad and Tobago play Jamaica on Monday.
SOURCE: cfufootball.org