Mount Pleasant and Montego Bay United edge first legs in JPL semi-finals

Mount Pleasant FA and Montego Bay United each claimed slim 1-0 advantages in their Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League semi-final first legs at the National Stadium on Sunday night, setting up decisive return matches on Wednesday.

The later contest between Portmore United and Mount Pleasant carried the most controversy. Portmore, seeking a first Premier League final appearance since 2019, appeared to go ahead in the 69th minute when striker Cory Burke put the ball in the net. Referee Akita Nicholson initially indicated a goal, but after a delay of about 10 minutes, the decision was overturned, angering Portmore supporters.

Mount Pleasant, the Caribbean Cup champions, then made the breakthrough in the 82nd minute through former Golden Boot winner Warner Brown. The St. Ann-based club held on for the 1-0 win as it continued its push for a fourth consecutive championship final and a second league title.

Mount Pleasant head coach Theodore Whitmore declined to dwell on the disputed call, saying his focus was on his team’s display and the work still required in the second leg. Portmore assistant coach Ricardo Smith questioned why video assistant referee technology was not in use for matches of that importance, noting that VAR had been used at the venue before.

In the other semi-final, Montego Bay United also defeated defending champions Cavalier 1-0. The result was settled in second-half stoppage time when midfielder Adrian Reid conceded an own goal. Montego Bay United also had a potential first-half opener ruled out for offside against Philander Wing.

MBU head coach Xavier Gilbert said his side controlled possession and created chances but needed sharper work in the final third. Cavalier assistant coach David Lea felt his team competed well despite the loss, describing the decisive own goal as an unfortunate moment for the player involved.

The semi-final return legs are scheduled for Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.