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JPL: MBU, Waterhouse look to rebound
January 29, 2025
TOP SIX Jamaica Premier League (JPL) clubs, Montego Bay United (MBU) and Waterhouse, will look to rebound from setbacks on Sunday when they clash in today's feature match at the Montego Bay Sports Complex in St James. Kick-off time is 7 p.m.
MBU, in second place with 41 points, drew with fourth-place Portmore United (34), while Waterhouse (sixth place with 33) were surprisingly whipped 3-0 at home by lowly Chapelton Maroons. The Maroons are in 10th spot with 20 points.
Earlier this season, Waterhouse endured a tough patch when they had just one win in eight games. However, they had overcome that slump and were in a two-game winning run. But they came crashing back to earth after Sunday's defeat at the Waterhouse Mini Stadium. It was their third straight home defeat.
Waterhouse head coach Marcel Gayle is hoping for a response from his team, but insists that discipline will be key.
"When you look at the stats, they (Montego Bay United) are an in-form team. They are consistent so we are not taking anything for granted. We have to be very detailed, and very disciplined, off the ball and in transition. However, the guys are ready and we know what's at stake. But discipline is going to be the key for us," Gayle said.
He added that they remain positive and confident but it is what they do in the day that counts.
"We want to approach the game business-like. We want to go there and give a good performance. We have some plans we want to execute and if we go out and follow our instructions we can get a favourable result.
"MBU have a very attacking line-up. They will press and play from minute one to 90 and they do well in transition. So we expect a fierce game from them," he said.
MBU's coach Rodolfo Zapata also anticipates a difficult game.
"It is going to be difficult. We want the supporters to fill the stadium to support our boys. They have been playing good football and they deserve the support," Zapata said.
Meanwhile, Chapelton after their morale-boosting win over Waterhouse will start favourites against a Dunbeholden team that have taken just two points from their last eight matches.
Two other games are on today at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex. Chapelton face Dunbeholden (16 points) at 4:30 p.m. before Racing United oppose Harbour View at 7 p.m.
The Racing, Harbour View clash should be interesting. Racing have taken seven points from their last three matches and are eighth in the table on 22 points However, they go up against a Harbour View team coming off their first win in 12 matches, after a 4-1 win over Dunbeholden. They have been boosted by the return of forwards Trayvon Reid and Colorado Murray, members of the title winning team in 2022.
