Trinidad and Tobago's National Under 20 footballers secured their first win of the CFU final round of World Cup qualifiers with a hard fought 2-1 victory over Guyana at the Pedro Marrero National Stadium in Cuba on Monday.
After losing their opening to Puerto Rico, T&T bounced back with a better showing after playing much of the game a player short.
Goalkeeper Keri Myers was ejected in the first half but her replacement Shalette Alexander came on and produced a solid performance for the Marlon Charles-coached outfit.
Khadidra Debesette, coming off a knee injury, scored for T&T in the 56th minute when she tapped in from close range following a cross ball and then netted a double and the winner in the 85th minute from the penalty spot.
Charles was satisfied with the win but is now focusing on tomorrow's encounter with hosts Cuba.
"The team played with a lot of heart and determination today," Charles told TTF Media. " Their attitude to the game was great. They showed great team work and effort although playing with 10 players.
I think if we can produce again on Wednesday against Cuba then we can definitely top the group. We cannot take them for granted but I think the girls realize how important it is to go into that match and give their all if they are to advance in the tournament," Charles said.
Trinidad and Tobago: - Keri Myers (Yellow 17), Khadisha Debesette, Afiyah Matthias (capt), Camille Borneo, Tineisha Cobham, Adeka Spence (Shalette Alexander 20th), Shante Helwig (Patrice Campbell 34th), Khadidra Debesette, Kayla Taylor, Brianna Ryce, Shanice Pierre (Shanisa Camejo 80th).
Coach: - Marlon Charles.
Guyana: - Derienne Busby, Justine Rodrigues, Chantal Lynch, Leah Ramalho (Yellow 58, Red 68), Leah Allison, Tessa Edwards, Sara Vaughan (Kelly Bolter 50th), Elysia Prasad (Esther Frotten 58th), Martyne Alphonso (Alisha Leila 76th), Olivia Gonzalves, Ashlee Savona.
Coach: - Mark Rodrigues.
Referee: - Carline Reid (Cayman Islands).
Venue: - Estadio Pedro Marrero Ciudad de La Habana (Cuba).
Attendance: - 120.