Mount Pleasant rout JDF 6-1 to reach Popeyes Challenge Cup final

Mount Pleasant FC moved into the 2026 Popeyes Challenge Cup final with a commanding 6-1 win over Jamaica Defence Force FC at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex on Saturday night, ending JDF’s upset run in the semi-finals.

The Caribbean champions were made to work early by a disciplined JDF side, which had already removed Cavalier and Arnett Gardens from the competition. DeMario Phillips gave Mount Pleasant the lead with a low strike from outside the area, but JDF answered almost immediately through Tjon Williams, whose left-footed finish was later named the Popeyes moment of the match.

Mount Pleasant regained control before half-time. Alex Marshall’s footwork helped open the move, Deshawn Anglin’s shot was not held, and Daniel Green reacted quickest to put Mount Pleasant 2-1 up in stoppage time.

The second half belonged to Mount Pleasant. Marshall stretched the lead soon after the restart, Green added another to complete his brace and move to five goals in the competition, before Demarco Smith and Anglin added late goals as JDF faded in the rain.

Mount Pleasant finished with 19 attempts, 10 on target, and 57 per cent possession. JDF produced 10 shots, four on target, but also collected six yellow cards. There were no red cards and no offsides recorded.

Head coach Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore said it was important for Mount Pleasant to reach the final and said he was pleased with the overall performance, including the contribution from younger players. He said Tuesday’s final against Molynes United would be another tough game.

JDF coach Donovan Dennison Jr said his team knew the match would be difficult against “the Caribbean champion” and one of the country’s strongest sides. He said JDF had tried to stay in the contest after trailing 2-1 at half-time, but the scoreline got away from them as they chased the game.

Molynes reached the final earlier with a 5-2 win over Montego Bay United. Mount Pleasant and Molynes are scheduled to meet in Tuesday’s decider at the same venue.