KELSEY Benjamin’s heroics failed to inspire Guyana, as they fell 2-3 to Cayman Islands and ultimately lost their second consecutive game in the 2018 CONCACAF U20 Championship in Bradenton, Florida, USA.
Playing at the IMG Academy yesterday, Guyana showed glimpses of their high skill level against a well-oiled Cayman Islands side, as Benjamin, who was probably the best player on the field, created havoc for the opposing side’s defence.
Five minutes into the contest, Western Tigers talisman scored from inside the 18-yard area to give Guyana their first goal of the tournament and the lead against Cayman Islands.
Guyana, through Benjamin, continued their relentless attack on Cayman Islands, but just before the stroke of halftime, UK-based defender Kwai Marsh-Brown received a questionable call by referee Filip Dujic, after fouling Cayman Islands’ Leighton Thomas in the box.
Albertini Holness was the man who stepped up to the mark, and his shot beat Guyana’s Johnathan Vaughn in goal, as Cayman Islands levelled things up 1-1 heading into the second half.
In the 58th minute, Kareem Foster put Cayman Islands in the lead. However, that would be short-lived, with Chris Macey making it ‘square’ for Guyana two minutes later.
Jabari Campbell scored the winning goal for Cayman Islands in the 67th minute to secure their three points, while Guyana remain winless.
Guyana will face Curacao tomorrow before closing their group stage against El Salvador on November 10.
