The Reggae Boyz Year In Review 2011
The Reggae Boyz had a pretty busy year in 2011, from the U17′s, the U20′s, U23′s to the senior men's team. There were mixed results but there is hope for the future as the performances showed critical promise.

JANUARY
The U17′s kicked-off by playing some practice matches against Canada, USA, Haiti and Costa Rica. The U17′s had just returned from a 6 week camp in Brazil where they proved to be assiduous. The pressure was on them as Jamaica was host of the U-17 world cup qualifiers and expectations grew as everyone wanted Jamaica to reach the U17 World Cup. They Beat Canada 1-0 and lost 4-2. They Beat Haiti 3-2. They drew with the USA 0-0 and lost 2-1. And in their penultimate game they lost to Costa Rica 1-0. The lack of wins was a concern for the public but Wendell Downswell made it known that the team would gel when qualifiers started.

FEBRUARY
The final round of the CONCACAF U17 World Cup qualifiers took place in Jamaica at 2 venues, the Catherine Hall Sports Complex and the Jarret Park Sports Stadium. Jamaica played all their games at the Catherine Hall Sports Complex. Jamaica had a relatively simple group with Guatemala and Trinidad and Tobago. The Boyz drew with their Caribbean rivals in the 1st game 2-2 and won a must win game against Guatemala 1-0. Trinidad beat Guatemala by the same scoreline, so Jamaica and Trinidad were tied on points and goal difference. There had to be a draw of lots and Jamaica won the group and faced Honduras in the key quarter final game. It was straightforward, beat Honduras and get to the U17 World Cup. Jason Wright scored within 12 minutes of the game. Jevani Brown and captain Omar Holness could have increased the lead later on, but early in the second half Jason Wright gave Jamaica an insurance goal. Late in the 2nd half Honduras pulled back a goal and there were some nervous faces around the stadium. But some clean and composed defending from Alvas Powell led Jamaica to the U17 World Cup. In the semi-final Jamaica played the USA but the USA proved to be no walkover as their possession was the key to their 2-0 victory. In the 3rd place match we played Panama and Panama edged us 1-0. Despite finishing 4th, we qualified for the U17 World Cup. Mission Accomplished here. Read the full report here

JFF President Burrell Banned by FIFA in bribery plot
October 15, 2011

GENEVA (AP):FIFA banned senior Caribbean official Horace Burrell for six months yesterday for the Jamaican's part in a bribery case involving former FIFA presidential candidate Mohamed bin Hammam, plunging the region's football authorities deeper into chaos.

Burrell, a long-time ally of former FIFA vice-president Jack Warner and a member of FIFA's disciplinary committee, must now withdraw his candidacy in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) presidential election scheduled for next month.

Since the bribery scandal broke in May, the CONCACAF continental body has seen its top three elected Caribbean officials - Warner, Burrell and Lisle Austin - either resign while under investigation or being banned by FIFA.

FIFA's ethics committee ruled that three months of the Jamaican federation president's ban would be deferred for a probationary period of two years. Calls to Burrell were not immediately answered yesterday.

Three other Caribbean officials also received bans. Franka Pickering, president of the British Virgin Islands federation and one of the most senior women in world football, was suspended for 18 months.

FIFA issued 30-day bans to Osiris Guzman, president of the Dominican Republic Football Federation, and St Vincent and the Grenadines general secretary Ian Hypolite. Fifteen days of their sanctions were deferred for six months.

The ethics panel met for three days this week to weigh evidence of CFU members allegedly accepting US$40,000 cash payments from bin Hammam in May.
The Qatari official made a campaign visit to Trinidad, the home island of then-CFU leader Warner, to woo voters during his challenge to FIFA president Sepp Blatter. Bin Hammam was banned for life by FIFA in July.

Yesterday's verdicts extend a trail of damage across Caribbean football, with Burrell having been favoured to win a four-candidate poll in Jamaica on November 20 to succeed Warner as CFU leader. Burrell's bid was ultimately ended by his own voters.

Members of the Reggae Boyz forum were not surprised as many past and current discussions surrounded the lack of accountability from Burrell, his ties to Jack Warner and Burrell’s silence about the CONCACAF TV Rights connection between the Jack Warner family. Read or join in the discussions

Reggae Boyz suffer another defeat
October 12, 2012
Jamaica continued their downward spiral with five straight losses as they were defeated 2-1 by Honduras at the Estadio Municipal Ceibano .Just minutes into the game, Jamaica lost possession and paid the price as a quick counter attach by Honduras caught the Reggae Boyz defenders napping.  Roger Rojas sent a through pass to Martinez who centered for Jerry Bengtson to easily tap home in front of a full house if cheering supporters.

The Reggae Boyz showed spirit by matching their opponents for the remainder of the half and created a number of failed scoring opportunities. They were rewarded just before half time as Omar Cummings was fouled just outside the right side of the18-yard box. Demar Phillips took an excellent left-footed free-kick that curled into the top corner of the goal to end the half 1-1.

The second half saw Jamaica quickly falling flat in their play and allowed the speedy Hondurans to take charge. Goalkeeper Dwayne Miller was called upon early to keep the Boyz in the game when he turn a shot from Bryan Bekeles’ around his near post.

Honduras did not relent in their attack keeping the Reggae Boyz under constant pressure.  11 minutes into the second half Mario Martinez put his team ahead when his hard left footed shot from 25 yards deflected pass the Jamaica goalkeeper to put Honduras up 2-1.

Jamaica seeking win against Honduras
October 9, 2011
After losing their last four games, Jamaica will face CONCACAF counterpart Honduras in an international friendly on October 11 at Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Honduras (ranked 50th), is coming off a loss to the USA last Saturday and will be looking to avenge a 1-0 defeat by the Reggae Boyz in June when they loss in group play at the CONCACAF Gold Cup.

The 45th-ranked Reggae Boyz head coach Theodore 'Tappa' Whitmore is seeking to turn his team’s miserable performances around and have invited three new UK based players to the squad for next Tuesday's game. The three players are 27-year-old midfielder Marvin Elliott who plays for English Championship team Bristol City, Marcus Bean, a 26 year-old midfielder from Brentford City in English League Two, and Nathan Smith, a 24-year-old defender currently playing with Chesterfield in Football League One.

The Reggae Boyz recent defeats include a 0-2 loss to the United States in the CONCACAF Gold Cup, followed by losses to China (1-0), Ecuador (5-2) and Colombia (2-0). Coach Whitmore has come under increasing pressure from fans that demanded that better quality players be brought into the team. Some fans have also suggested that the team’s backward slide started when The JFF brought in the Brazilian coaches to assist with the teams development.

For the Honduran game, Jamaica will be without the services their leading striker, Luton Shelton, as he is nursing a right hamstring injury sustained while representing his Turkish club Karabukspor.

The final team will be selected from Xavier Virgo (Boys' Town), Dwayne Miller (SyrianSka FC, Sweden), Gariece McPherson (Portmore United), Shavar Thomas (Sporting Kansa City, USA), Jermaine Taylor (Houston Dynamo, USA), Demar Phillips (Aaelusund FC, Norway), Errol Stevens (Arnett Gardens), Keniel Moodie (Montego Bay United), Marvin Elliott (Bristol City, UK), Marcus Bean (Brentford City, UK), Jason Morrison (Aaelusumb FC, Norway), Richard Edwards (Harbour View FC), Jevaughn Watson (Houston Dynamo, USA), Damian Williams (Nybergsund IL, Norway) Keammar Daley (North End, Preston, UK), Rodolph Austin (SK Brann, Norway), Nathan Smith, (Chesterfield FC, UK), Dane Richards (New York Red Bulls, USA), Wolry Wolfe (Humble Lions), Omar Cummings (Colorado Rapids, USA), Luton Shelton (Karabukspor, Turkey).

The JFF outlines conditions for foreign-based players
September 11, 2011
After a series of losses to the USA, China, Ecuador and Colombia, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz coach Theodore 'Tappa' Whitmore has vowed a new direction and a team shake-up. His decision follows closely on the recent outcry from fans that the JFF is avoiding the inclusion of foreign players and wasting time with local players of lesser quality.

The Jamaica Football Federation on the other hand continues to send mix signals as to the team’s quality. In a recently published article by the Jamaica Observer, the Federation said that despite the string of defeats, they are not too perturbed as the team is a work in progress and the national program is still on track.

Whitmore, in an attempt to avoid any perception that Jamaica is avoiding the UK-born players, claim that they have been scouting a few England-born players over the past few months with the intention to invite them for upcoming FIFA dates. He was quick to clarify that these foreign-based prospects playing for clubs in respectable leagues were not automatic selection to the team.

In an article written by Sean Williams at the Jamaica Observer, Whitmore and other JFF representatives clearly outlined a few of the conditions for the inclusion of the foreign players.

1. Any new talent must have the capacity to integrate into the team both on and off the pitch. This is very important for chemistry, team spirit, tactical and technical compatibility
2. It is very important to make the point that the treatment offered by the Federation for foreign-based players must not defer to what is provided to our home grown talent... we are one team with common goals, therefore the foreign grown Jamaican talent must be able to endure the conditions all other members of the team are subjected.
3. There are no reservations on England-born or other European-born players of Jamaican descent representing the country providing that the talent is better than what exist here in Jamaica
4. That the players can fit into the unit without creating instability and disharmony...
5. That the players can enhance the capacity of the team and program.
6. All players wishing to represent the country must procure documentation to establish their eligibility

TheReggaeBoyz.com Forum member “Blessed Love” responds to what he sees as negativity towards the foreign-based players. “They're already saying that the foreign-based players will not be treated any different from the local-based players” he said, but from his observations “they were not giving the same share to equal opportunity, to have time to gel in the system like the other set of players we have been stooping-down to”.

Another Forum Member Hamilton Israel believes that in the past the JFF have been simply unprepared for the culture shock these players have when the arrive in Jamaica and couldn't help them to assimilate. Hamilton Israel is proposing in his Project England article that a comprehensive plan would be to bring a nucleus over from this side to train with new UK invitees in England on a FIFA match day week.  Join the discussion and voice your opinion in the forum.

Colombia down Jamaica 2-0
Sept. 07, 2011
Jamaica’ Reggae Boyz continued their losing streak as they were defeated 2-0 by Colombia in a friendly football international at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Playing in wet conditions, Jamaica was fairly competitive for most of the first half. The Boyz wasted a lot of possession trying to switch the ball in the air from one side of the field to another, most of them being either too high or once it hit the turf skidding off the field.

Jamaica created a few half chances especially attacking from the right hand side, but most of the time the players tried to shoot from an acute angle instead of playing it to a teammate in a more feasible position. Rudolph Austin had Jamaica’s best scoring threat of the first half with his shot that hit the right post in the 14th minute.

In the 20th, Dwayne Miller stopped a 20 yards drive from Falcao and four minutes later deflected Teofilo Gutierrez’s attempt near the 6-yard box. Miller again denied Gutierrez in the 34th minute, easily stopping his 25-yard shot. The half ended 0-0

In the 55th minute Colombia went ahead as Teofilo Gutierrez collected a centering pass from Radamel Falcao’s on the right wing and converted his shot past goalkeeper Miller.

Although the Reggae Boyz back-4 was reasonably composed in the first half, upon the introduction of Rodallega in the attack for Colombia Jamaica had increasing problems dealing with their counter attacks

Jamaica nearly tied it in the 80th minute when Substitute Omar Daley’s shot just inside the large area hit the crossbar. Colombia sealed the game when Jackson Martinez scored the second goal in the 90th.

The loss to Colombia comes on the heels of a 5-2 spanking by Ecuador last Friday in Quito, Ecuador...More on this game in the Forum

Jamaica face Colombia in Ft. Lauderdale
Sept. 6, 2011
Jamaica’ Reggae Boyz will look to halt a three-game losing streak tonight when they take on Colombia in a friendly football international at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The team has had a 5-2 losst to Ecuador last Friday in Quito, which followed a 1-0 away defeat to China on August 10 and a 2-0 defeat by the United States, which knocked Jamaica out of the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup in June.

In his quest to halt the slide, the Reggae Boyz coach Theodore Whitmore added a few veteran players to tackle the South Americans. Lovel Palmer, Jermaine Taylor, Omar Daley and Jason Morrison have been added alongside Dane Richards, Omar Cummings, Rodolph Austin, Adrian Reid, and Ryan Johnson. Two new faces local-based Errol Stevens and Ewan Grandison were also drafted into the team.

Colombia, ranked 35 in the world, defeated Honduras on Saturday and should be a very good test for the Reggae Boyz. The last time the two teams met, Jamaica defeated Colombia 1-0 in the National Stadium with Ricardo Gardner getting the winner. Kick-off is at 7:30 p.m. local time (6:30 p.m. Jamaica time). Read more

Why Avoid UK Based Players ?
October 10, 2010 was the last time Jamaica fielded a UK based player and that was Ricardo Fuller. That is now almost 11 months since we have seen a UK based player in the Black Green and Gold. It is certainly very concerning.

We have to ask Tappa and Company " Why Avoid UK Based Players ? UK based players play a huge role in the development of football at the international level. They bring years of experience, they bring tactical discipline and their technical ability wins the Jamaicans fans hearts all the time.

At this point in time the fans are growing restless. We are about 10 months away from the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers and we are yet to experiment with the UK based players.

As I have said before we are just a few pieces away from completing the puzzell and stand a very very strong chance of getting on that plane to Brazil. Technically all we need is a solid centre back, a central midfielder, winger and an additional striker. The general core of the team is a good one and with these additions, Jamaica WILL reap the rewards in the near future. Read the full story in the Forum

Ecuador thrashed Jamaica 5-2
Sept 03, 2011
Ecuador thrashed Jamaica 5-2 in an international friendly at the Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa Stadium in Ecuador. Playing at high altitude to a team that has not lost at home in two years, exposed a Jamaican team with players that lacked the ability to contain their opponents.

Within minutes of the opening whistle, it was evident that the Reggae Boyz were in for a rough night as Ecuador easily and consistently steamed past the Jamaican backline. Jaime Ayovi opened the scoring for Ecuador in the 21st minute when he collected a pass inside the box and calmly placed the ball wide of goalkeeper Miller. Christian Suarez extended Ecuador's advantage in the 39th followed by Benitez who made it 3-0 just before half-time.

Benitez, a former Birmingham City striker now playing for Club America in Mexico, gave Ecuador a four-goal lead five minutes after the break. Omar Cummings pulled a goal back for Jamaica in the 58th with shot from just outside the box. Segundo Castillo scored again for Ecuador in the 65th just before Jamaica’s Demar Phillips scored a beautifully executed shot in the 67th minute.

The Jamaican's poor passing, backline issues and lack of maintaining ball possession has many fans wondering if this is the best the Reggae Boyz have to offer at an international level. Supporters of the team are calling for coach Whitmore to start using better quality players in the national team to avoid further embarrassment.

Jamaica -- 13-Dwayne Miller, 04-Shavar Thomas, 19-Adrian Reid (03-Montrose Phinn,70th), 06-Keneil Moodie (16-Troy Smith 55th), 12-Demar Phillips, 15-Xavean Virgo, 17-Rudolph Austin(02-Richard Edwards 55th), 07-Damion Williams (18-Andrew Vanzie 80th), 20-JeVaughn Watson (08-Eric Vernan 60th), 10-Dane Richards (09-Ryan Johnson 46th), 14-Omar Cummings.Subs not used: 01-Richard McCullum…..More game discussion in the Forum

Boyz to meet Equador in international friendly
August 20, 2011
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz will continue their preparation for the upcoming CONCACAF World Cup qualifying play-offs next year with a trip to Quito, Ecuador, to play the 64th ranked team on September 2nd. The game, to be played on an official FIFA calendar date, was announced by Captain Horace Burrell, President of the JFF, and is part of the plan to get the Boyz a friendly on every FIFA date leading into the World Cup qualifiers next year.

The clash with Ecuador will not be an easy game for the Boyz and Jamaican coach Tappa Whitmore is promising to field a strong team to face their quality South American opponent.  The high altitude Estadio Olimpico Atahualpa is 2,000m above sea level. Ecuador was contestants at the 2002 and 2006 World Cup and has not lost at home since losing to Uruguay in 2009.

Burrell pointed out that securing this game versus Ecuador in that country is important to our preparation due to the similarities between Ecuador and Mexico as well as other Central American opponents that we are likely to meet in the World Cup Qualifiers. He added that the opportunity would allow for players and the technical staff "to assimilate conditions that we will most definitely face on the journey to Brazil 2014".

In the past, both teams have met twice, first in 1996 in Ambato, Ecuador and again in August 2009 in New York. In the first encounter Jamaica lost 2-1with Onandi Lowe getting the consolation goal, and then playing to a 0-0 draw in a game that will be remembered for Dicoy Williams’ excellent debut at centre back for Jamaica.

The Jamaican delegation of officials, coaches and players are expected to arrive in the South America nation on Tuesday, August 30 and depart Saturday, September 3. The big question from fans is whether they will see any new faces in the Boyz squad that has not fielded it’s most potent players in recent games. Read more or join the discussion in the forum

Depleted Reggae Boyz fall 1-0 to China
August 10, 2011
A depleted Reggae Boyz squad lost 1-0 to China in an international friendly at the Hei Fei Sports Center. Zhao Peng scored the lone goal in the 9th minute as he out jumped his Jamaican opponents to head home from a corner.

Playing in wet and rainy conditions, the somewhat make shift Reggae Boyz team was kept in a defensive mode for most of the game. The Jamaicans struggled to put their passing game together and failed to create any real goal scoring opportunities.

The Reggae Boyz squad, which was missing many of the players invited to the tour looked more like a Jamaica “B” team as coach Whitmore did not have his choice players to choose from. Late withdrawals due to injuries and reorganized travel plans were to blame for the depleted squad of fifteen players. Special arrangements had to be made by the JFF for visa to be issued to some late arriving players on entering Shanghai and Beijin some arriving just hours before the game.

Members of theReggaeBoyz.com forum who watched the game were very disappointed in the team’s performance saying the whole team looked fatigue and out of shape. Distributor1 summed up the match saying “Not much of a game, but we could hardly have expected more with that depleted squad. We created no chances on goal, and we had no creative midfield play. Our defense wasn't bad, but that was more because of our athleticism and not our organization. The Chinese deserved the result.”

Jamaica's starting XI — Dwayne Miller, Shavar Thomas, Adrian Reid, Xavian Virgo, Eric Vernan, Damion Williams, Omar Daley, Keneil Moodie, Rudolph Austin, Luton Shelton, Omar Cummings. Read the game comments in the forum

Strong Under-23 football squad for Olympic qualifiers
August 2, 2011
Jamaica's Under-23 football squad wrapped up their final warm up match with a 1-0 win over the newly promoted Premier League team Highgate United, before departing for Suriname where they will compete in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) first-round Olympic qualifiers. The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Olympic qualifications will be held in Suriname from August 3 to 7, 2011 with Jamaica drawn in Group "A" alongside Cayman Islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Suriname.

The match was the second of two games between both teams as the U23 Boyz went down 1-0 in the first game. The team has been training under national senior team assistant coach Brazilian Alfredo Montesso who said he expects a lot from the Young Reggae Boyz as they were a talented team. Although the team is short on practice games due to a limited preparation time the players are expected to do well against their first round opponents and should advance to the next phase.

Joining the team's 18-man squad is overseas-based midfielder and senior team representative Evan Taylor. Taylor, who plays in the United States Soccer League (USL) for the Charleston Battery, has 10 caps for the Jamaican national team including World Cup qualifiers versus Mexico, Canada and the Bahamas. He is expected to strengthen the squad that contains a number of players who narrowly missed qualifying for the FIFA 2010 Under-20 World Cup. The team also includes Jason Johnson and André Clennon, who both have senior-team experience as Johnson played for Jamaica in 2010 against Argentina, while Clennon featured against El Salvador in March 2011.

Reggae Boyz take their tune to China
July 31, 2011
In keeping with the Jamaica Football Federation’s goal to take full advantage of all available FIFA calendar dates leading to the Caribbean leg of World Cup qualification, the Reggae Boyz are scheduled to take on China for a friendly on August 10 in China. The game will be the first for Jamaica since their CONCACAF Gold tournament and will be played in the eastern Chinese city of Heifi, with both teams agreeing to play their strongest teams available.

The 44th ranked Reggae Boyz are expected to field most of their recent Gold Cup players including the likes of Shavar Thomas, Dane Richards, Ryan Johnson, Jermaine Taylor, Donovan Ricketts  Luton Shelton, Rodolph Austin, Jason Morrison, Omar Daley and Keammar Daley

China ranked 73rd by FIFA, is coming off a convincing World Cup qualifying  against Laos with a first leg 7-2 victory followed by a 6-1 victory in the return-leg to advance 13-3 on aggregate to the Asian group-stage qualifying. They are expected to field captain Du Wei, top striker Hao Haidong, Yang Xu who scored a hat trick against Laos, midfielders Chen Tao and Hao Junmin.

The meeting will be the third between the two countries dating back to 1977 with the Chinese winning the first 1-0 while Jamaica following up with a 3-0 triumph in the second. Forum member Rick stated in a recent post that he remembers the series back in '77 when the Chinese played three matches in that series, two against the Jamaican National side and one against a Western All Stars side at Jarrett Park. More in the Forum

Keammar 'Dada' Daley impresses IN PNU trial stint
July 31, 2011
TIVOLI Gardens FC's Keammar 'Dada' Daley has impressed club officials on his trial stint at Preston North End, the English Championship team which was recently relegated to Division

Daley, who was selected for trial based on his impressive showing at the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup tournament, scored in Preston North End’s pre-season 3-0 victory over League Two outfit Morecambe 3-0 at the Globe Arena.

The Reggae Boyz midfielder’s tricky runs and strong tackles where highlighted when he collected a pass on the left-side of the box and calmly beat his marker before firing home between keeper Barry Roche and the near post. Fans of North End showed their appreciation by chanting ‘Phil, sign him up!’

By all accounts it was an impressive performance by Daley for a club that has a history with some of the best Jamaican home grown players such as, Ricardo Fuller, Omar Daley, Claude Davis and  a recent stint with Ricardo Gardner.

Daley was voted as the Most Valuable Player in last season’s Flow Championship Cup, which was won by Tivoli Gardens and is reported to have a number of teams in Asia, Norway, Belgium and the United States interested in his talents. Read More

Jamaica U-23 squad preparing for CFU Olympic qualifiers
The Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Olympic qualifications will be held in Suriname from August 3 to 7, 2011 with Jamaica drawn in Group "A" alongside Cayman Islands, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Suriname. The players invited to the squad have been training under national senior team assistant coach Brazilian Alfredo Montesso at St. George's College. Six members of the 2009 National Under-20 football squad, Levaughn Williams, Keith Simpson, Davian Thorpe, Andre Clennon, Theo Brown and Alanzo Adlam, are among the invitees. Also invited are Oneil Fisher, Devon Williams and Kemar Lawrence, who were part of the 2011 national under-20 squad and former Bridgeport High School Manning Cup football star Darren Mattocks,  now with Akron University. Did Gama and the U23 technical staff select the strongest squad available? See the full list of players in the forum discussion

Kansas star contemplates playing for the Boyz
 Ryan Smith, a former England youth international is looking at his option of representing the Reggae Boyz. The attacking 24-year-old winger with Sporting Kansas City (SKC), has Jamaican roots and would consider playing for Jamaica if his services were desired. Early in his development Smith played mainly in Arsenal’s youth system in England playing for the first team in the Carling Cup knockout competition at age 16 and also played for England at the Under-20 level. Other clubs that he has been a part of includes Leicester, Derby County, Milwall, Southampton and Crystal Palace. In 2010 he joined Jamaican Shavar Thomas at Sporting Kansas City and made an immediate impact scoring three goals with seven assists. Thomas who captained Jamaica at the recent Gold Cup tournament said Smith is the total package of speed, skill and football intelligence. Learn more about Ryan Smith in the forum

Univ. of Akron signs Akeil Omari Barrett
Univ. of Akron signs former Calabar High School and Harbor View U-20 Team member Akeil Omari Barrett. He will join fellow countryman Darren Mattocks and compete for a spot up top for the Zips this fall. The lower sixth-form student has three CXC subjects, Communication Studies, History and Sociology and has his eyes set on playing soccer at the highest level. We wish him success. Join the discussion here

Dane Kelly on loan to USLPro Charleston Battery
Former Tivoli Gardens striker Dane Kelly has made a very impressive debut with the USL Pro League for Charleston Battery since his under-the-radar loan last month.The twenty year-old player has grabbed the headlines after his impressive pre-season displays, as well as an outstanding showing in the team's first league match. Kelly’s explosive pace has already paid dividends and head coach Mike Anhaeuser seems convinced that he has a long-term role to play in the team. Kelly was scouted during a seven-day trip to Jamaica by the Battery's back-room staff. Read more in the forum.

Jamaica now 38 in FIFA Coca-Cola Rankings
July 3, 2011
Jamaica made a seventeen place jump to 38th in the recent update of the FIFA Coca-Cola Rankings. This is their best position since the 1998 World Cup campaign where the Boyz were ranked 32. Later in the same year they achieved their best-ever ranking of 27. With the latest update, the Boyz are now third in CONCACAF behind Mexico (9th) and USA (24th). Jamaica maintained their No 1 position in the Caribbean, followed by Haiti (89th), Trinidad and Tobago (90th) and Cuba (101th) rounding out the top four.  Without a doubt, Jamaica is on the rise and this movement in the ranking is also a result of their excellent first round showing at the recent CONCACAF Gold Cup defeating Grenada (4-0), Guatemala (2-0) and Honduras (1-0). Follow the Ranking Spanking discussion here

Horace Burrell eyes vacant CONCACAF and CFU posts
July 3, 2011
With the recent resignation of Austin 'Jack' Warner's as president of CONCACAF and the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), the President of the Jamaica Football Federation Captain Horace Burrell, says it is very likely that he will run for the vacant posts.

Burrell, speaking recently at the JFF headquarters, said he is ready for the job but emphasized he will need support from his colleagues and his country.

Members of TheReggaeBoyz.com Forum seems to support the idea of Burrell leading CONCACAF as they think it will be better for the Caribbean than having the Americans or Mexicans head CONCACAF. One member Rick went on to say “he might very well end up being of more use and benefit to Jamaica's football as head of CONCACAF than he has been as head of the JFF. What do you think of the idea. We would love to hear your views. Join the discussion here

First round exit for Jamaica at the 2011 Under 17 FIFA World Cup
July1, 2011
Jamaica's Under-17 footballers returned home after their first round exit from the 2011 FIFA World Cup in Mexico. The Young Boyz finished at the bottom of the four-team group with one point, behind Argentina (three points), France (five points) and group winners Japan (seven points).

Although not winning any of three games, they were quite competitive and head coach Wendell Downswell said that if was not for lack of international exposure and the youngster's naivety, they could still be in the tournament. Jamaica lost 0-1 to Japan, 1-2 to Argentina and drew 1-1 with France after leading early in the game. A victory against France would have placed Jamaica ahead of Argentina in the next round due to their superior goal average.

Downswell also express disappointment at the missed opportunity to expose the players to the training camp in Valencia, Spain, prior to the Mexico trip, which he claims would have helped them tremendously heading into the World Cup. He went on to say that the major disparity between Jamaica and the other teams on show was their inability to score the opportunities that were created.

This was the second Under 17 World Cup featuring Jamaica, as they previously appeared in the 1999 event that was held in New Zealand. The current team achieved two major milestones by being the first Jamaica team to score at the under-17 FIFA Youth Championship and also the first to gain a point at that level. For a full forum analysist of the team's performance visit the forum discussion here

Reggae Boyz sent packing from the Gold Cup
June 19, 2011
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz were sent packing from the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup after falling 2-0 to the United States in the quarter final at RFK Stadium on Sunday. The Americans will advance and play either Panama or El Salvador - in the semifinals in Houston on Wednesday.

Jamaica lacked the confidence and speed they displayed in the first round of the tournament and were somewhat intimidated by the Americans. It seemed that Jamaica's game plan was to contain the US, and score on counter-attacks but the strategy did not work for them.

Jamaica had the first chance in the fourth minute as Dane Richards picked a ball and sent a right cross to Ryan Johnson, who fired from point-blank range. Goalkeeper Tim Howard blocked Johnson’s shot and the rebound was hit over the crossbar by Luton Shelton in front of the empty goal. The United States dominated the rest of the half with Jamaica, the only team not to concede a goal during the group stage of the Gold Cup, seemingly content to playing a defensive game and chasing the USA around.

American midfielder Jermaine Jones scored his first international goal when he put the Americans ahead in the 49th minute with a shot that deflected off a Jamaican defender pass Donovan Ricketts into the back of the net. It was his first goal of the Gold Cup for the U.S.A.

America stepped up the attack on the non-dancing Reggae Boyz and Donovan Ricketts was called upon to make some excellent saves to keep Jamaica in the game. The USA sealed the game in the 80th minute when Agudelo pulled two defenders on the right side of the box and released a simple ball to Clint Dempsey who easily tapped the ball in from three yards out. The victory extended the United States' unbeaten history over Jamaica to 18 matches.

Jamaica has made eight appearances at the Gold Cup final tournament, 1991, 1993, 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2009 and 2011.

Jamaica defeats Honduras to win Gold Cup Group B
June 14, 2011
Ryan Johnson’s first half goal gave Jamaica a 1-0 win over Honduras to top Group B Monday in front of a sellout crowd of 25,000 at Red Bull Arena. Jamaica, which advances to the quarterfinals for the first time since 2005, will face the runner-up from Group C on Sunday in Washington, D.C. It will be decided today when USA plays Guadeloupe and Panama oppose Canada.  Honduras, which also advances as the group’s second-placed team, plays Costa Rica on Saturday.

Johnson’s winner came in the 36th minute when he took advantage of an open space in middle of the Honduran defense. The roaming Johnson fired a 25 meters shot that hit the crossbar, bounced down and struck the back of keeper Noel Valladares’ head before rolling into the goal. Johnson, who plays Major League Soccer for the San Jose Earthquakes said “It’s one of the strangest goals, but it’s a goal,” he went on to say that he was happy that the team has not been scored on so far and maintains a clean sheet.

Johnson came very close to scoring a second goal for the Reggae Boyz when he was awarded a penalty in the 72nd minute after being tripped inside the box by Osman Chavez. Johnson was denied as the Honduran keeper made a diving save to the left to keep Honduras in the match. Play was delayed for a couple of minutes after referee Joel Aguilar of El Salvador awarded the penalty as angry Honduran fans littered the field with plastic bottles.

The Reggae Boyz coach Theodore Whitmore said the team has made a lot of progress and that most of the guys have been working together for a year now. What we got today and in this tournament was the ball possession because we tend to give away the ball a lot. We can see a difference in our ball possession" said Whitmore.

The Boyz ended group play with maximum nine points, five ahead of Honduras and Guatemala, while Grenada suffered yet another huge 4-0 defeat in the first game of the double against Guatemala, to finish pointless.

Teams: Jamaica – Dwayne Miller, Jason Morrison, Jermaine Taylor, Adrian Reid, Damion Williams, Demar Phillips, Omar Daley (Eric Vernan 85th), Keammar Daley, Jevaughn Watson (Navion Boyd 89th), Dane Richards, Ryan Johnson (Luton Shelton 82nd). More in the Forum

Phillips scores twice as Jamaica beats Guatemala 2-0
June 10, 2011
Jamaica overpowered Guatemala 2-0 in their Group B CONCACAF Gold Cup match Friday night at the FIU Stadium in Miami, Florida. A pair of second half goals from Demar Phillips helped The Reggae Boyz to become the second team to reach the quarterfinals of the Gold Cup.

The Caribbean champs started slowly and although they looked the stronger team they never capitalized on their first half opportunities. Guatemala had its best scoring chance late in the first half caused by some sloppy defending from Jamaica. In the 40th minute Ruiz latched on to a loose ball and unleashed a 20 yard shot but his long range effort went straight to Ricketts. Two minutes later Ruiz strikes again but it whistles past Ricketts upright. The half ended 0-0.

Jamaica became more purposeful in the second half and nearly broke through with two scoring chances in the first 5 minutes after the break. Luton Shelton outpaced the defenders from midfield into the Guatemela penalty area but his final touch was stopped by a leg save from Jerez in the 47th minute. Jerez was tested again 3 minutes later when he stopped a 20 yard shot from Richards.

Phillips broke the deadlock with his first goal in the 65th minute. Substitute Keamar Daley released a pass to Phillips who dribbled into the left side of the penalty area, eluded s defender and beat goalkeeper Ricard Jerez with a shot that ended inside the right post. Philips struck again in the 78th minute when Dane Richards dribbled toward the end line of the Guatemalan penalty area, worked around a defender and centered a pass to an unmarked Phillips who shot pass Jerez to give the Boyz their second goal.

The win gives Jamaica six points atop Group B and assured Jamaica a berth in the Gold Cup quarterfinals of the CONCACAF championship for the fifth time and first since 2005. Jamaica will play their third and final Group B match on Monday in Harrison, N.J. where hey will face Honduras.

The starting team was; D. Ricketts, S. Thomas, D. Phillips, J. Taylor, Dicoy Williams, E. Vernan, R. Austin, J. Morrison, D. Richard, L. Shelton, R. Johnson....More in the Forum

Jamaica open Gold Cup with comfortable 4-0 win over Grenada
June 6, 2011
Jamaica’s senior Reggae Boyz football team kicked off its 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup Tournament Group B campaign with a comfortable 4-0 win against Caribbean neighbors Grenada at the Home Depot Center in Carson California. The goals were scored by Luton Shelton, Ryan Johnson, Demar Phillips and Omar Daley. The result puts Jamaica in the lead of Group B with three points, two ahead of Honduras and Guatemala, who played to a 0-0 draw in the second game of the double header. Grenada sits at the bottom of the table without a point.

Although the Boyz achieved their main objective of getting three points from the game, they squandered may chances in a game that they dominated with ball possession and keeping their opponents pinned in their own half of the field.

Jamaica opened the scoring in the 21 minute from a left sided corner played short to Richards and back to Austin who then sent a through ball that finds Shelton whose deft touch slips it in the back of the net. The Boyz should have added another shortly after when central defender Jermaine Taylor sent a diagonal pass to Dane Richards. The New York Red Bull player blazed down the right wing and then sent a teasing cross to the back post but the chance was squandered by Johnson a few meters from the goal.

Jamaica found the net again in the 39th minute with Richards again storming down the wing and his pin-point pass to Johnson creates a simple tap in for a 2-0 advantage. Jamaica maintained control of the game for the remainder of the first half.

The Boyz started the second half where they left off as Shelton squandering yet another chance in font of the goal hitting it high over the crossbar. missed chances continued as Johnson should have added a third goal when he sprung the off-side trap and raced clear on goal, but shot hit against the crossbar and back into play.

The third goal finally came in the 79th minute as Phillips this time does break through and slips the ball past his covering defender and blasts his effort past an advancing Louison in goal.

The Boyz saved their best for last with a sweet goal that could be considered one of the best goals of the tournament so far. After a nice build up in the 84th minute Jevaughn Watson did a cheeky back heel to substitute Omar Daley who sent a ferocious shot to the top corner of the net sending Jamaica to a 4-0 victory.

Team Jamaica - Donovan Ricketts, Shavar Thomas, Jermaine Taylor, Dicoy Williams, Jason Morrison, Rudolph Austin (Keammar Daley 69th), Demar Phillips, Eric Vernan, Luton Shelton (Jevaughn Watson 79th), Dane Richards (Omar Daley 65th), Ryan Johnson. Follow the game discussion here

Downswell selects players for Under-17 World Cup
June 5, 2011
The head coach of Jamaica's under 17 football team, Wendell Downswell, announced his final 21-man squad to represent Jamaica at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Mexico, beginning on June 18. Downswell said that based on the availability of the players, his selection is the best possible crop of players at this time. The 21-member squad was for the most part selected from players who participated in the six-week training camp in Brazil in back in December. One noticeable omission was that of left sided midfielder, King Kya Beckford, who took part in the qualifiers in Montego Bay earlier this year.

The Young Reggae Boyz will travel to Toluca on Tuesday, June 7 in preparation of the World Cup, They will then open their World Cup campaign against Japan on June 18.

The full squad is: Goalkeepers: Odean Clarke, Holland United, Muschett High; Richard Trench, unattached, Rusea's High; Nico Campbell, Cavalier, St George's College. Defenders: Alvas Powell, Portmore United, Paul Bogle High; Quante Smith Brampton United, Silverhorn (Canada); Patrick Palmer, Cavalier, Wolmer's Boys; Kemo Wallace, Harbour View, Wolmer's Boys; Oshane Jenkins, Cavalier, St George's College; Jason Wint Portmore United' Zhelano Barnes, Cavalier, Excelsior High. Midfielders: Omar Holness, Real Mona, Wolmer's Boys; Romario Jones Cavalier, St George's College; Andrew Lewis, Cavalier, St George's College; Cardel Benbow, Waterford FC, St George's College; Shawn Lawson, Ajax Strikers; J Clarke Richardson (Canada); Melvin Blair Frome FC, Mannings High; Troy Moo Penn, Mile Gully, Manchester High. Forwards: Jason Wright, Cavalier, Wolmer's Boys; Jevani Brown, MK Dons, Lea Manor High (UK); Romario Williams, Cavalier, Kingston College; Anthony Walker unattached, Rusea's High. Join the Under-17 World Cup discussion here

Marshall, Cummings released from Gold Cup squad
June 4, 2011
With their first game of the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup Tournament scheduled for Monday against Grenada, the Jamaican Reggae Boyz squad continues to shrink as it lost two more players. Veteran utility player Tyrone Marshall and his Colorado Rapids teammate, striker Omar Cummings have been removed from the team roster a day after they were expected to join up with their team mates in Los Angeles. The release of the two players follows the omission of veteran defender Ian Goodison for failing to join the squad on their recent training camp in Brazil.

It was confirmed that the 36 year old Marshall, a veteran of 70 caps, would not be joining the team due to a conflict with the schedule of his US Major League Soccer (MLS) team the Colorado Rapids where Marshall is expected to play a key role. It was also suggested that if the situation changes and Marshall becomes available, he could join up with the squad later in the tournament.

The situation with Cummings is different as the speedy striker is still recovering from an ankle injury suffered while playing for his club, Colorado Rapids in the MLS. He was originally expected to join the 23 man training session in Brazil but was given and extension to aid his recovery process. It is still unclear if a replacement will be requested for Cummings as is allowed under the tournament rules.

Meanwhile, the Reggae Boyz arrived in Torrance, California on Thursday evening, traveling from Porto Feliz in Sao Paulo, Brazil were they were joined by goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts, defenders Jermaine Taylor and Dicoy Williams, and midfielder Jevaughn Watson. Jamaica's opening game against Grenada is scheduled for 6:00 pm (8:00 pm Jamaica time) on Monday. For a schedule of the games see more here.

No-show Goodison dropped from Gold Cup squad
May 28, 2011
National Senior Head Coach Theodore Whitmore has expressed profound disappointment in the failure of national representative Ian Goodison to join the national squad presently in Brazil preparing for the CONCACAF Gold Cup. Mr. Goodison did not depart the NMIA on Thursday, 26th with the other players Jason Morrison; Dwayne Miller: Rudolph Austin and Dane Richards as scheduled.

Up to press time no reason have been given for Goodison's absence, and as a result Mr. Goodison has been removed from the squad as the rules which were made clear to all was that the camp in Brazil was mandatory. Whitmore, had earlier this week given the 38 year old Goodison his blessing by saying that the aging defender had something to offer to the current Reggae Boyz squad.

It was clearly expressed to the players that the training camp would have been mandatory for them to attend and seeing that we are already three days into camp and he did not come there is no option therefore of the player joining the squad in California for its first fixture against Grenada on June 6.

“The days of players doing as they please with the national programme are over” said a very disappointed Coach Whitmore. ‘and this is the case no matter who the player is, regardless of his experience or standing, no one is bigger than the team. The door is never closed to any national player but this is a lost opportunity for Mr. Goodison”. “We have moved on with the preparation as both the technical staff and the players are determined to do well at this tournament”

The arrival of the four players yesterday brings the total number of players in the camp to 16. The group will depart for for Los Angeles on Wednesday where they will be joined by the remaining six players of the Major League Soccer to bring the Gold Cup roster to 22...Read More and get fan reaction on Goodison

Jamaica calls up players for Gold Cup tournament and Brazil training camp
May 24, 2011
Theodore Whitmore, head coach of Jamaica’s senior Reggae Boyz football team, has called up a combination of overseas and locally based players for the Gold Cup to be held in the USA, June 5-25. The majority of the players called will arrive in Sao Paolo, Brazil on May 24th and 25th to commence training in preparation for the event.

The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has worked hard over the past two months to make the training camp a reality and to ensure that players were released from their respective clubs. Injuries to Ricardo Fuller and Kavin Bryan has caused their omission from the team but Omar Cummings who was injured two weeks ago is recovering and is expected to be able to participate in the tournament. Veterans players Ian Goodison and Tyrone Marshall were brought back into the fold.

The training camp is deemed to be very critical in creating the right synergy for a team consisting of twenty-three players traveling from six countries. Players that will miss the training camp in Brazil are Jermaine Taylor and Jevaughn Watson who are experiencing issues relating to work permit for their respective clubs and Donovan Ricketts and Dicoy Williams who were approved by Coach Whitmore to join up with the team in Los Angeles on 2nd June.

Players called to the team are goalkeepers Donovan Rickets, Dwayne Miller and Duwayne Kerr. Defenders Dicoy Williams, Shavar Thomas, Jermaine Taylor, Ian Goodison, Eric Vernan, Demar Phillips, Tyrone Marshall and Adrian Reid. Midfielders Richard Edwards, Jason Morrison, Damian Williams, Omar Daley, Jevaughn Watson, Rodolph Austin and Keammar Daley. Forwards Ryan Johnson, Dane Richards, Omar Cummings, Navion Boyd and Luton Shelton.

Coach Whitmore has said that this Gold Cup will be an important point in men’s football program with the objective to improve qualitatively over the performance in 2009 and a test to see how the players will perform in a high intensity tournament setting. Newly appointed Assistant National Senior team Coach, Alfredo Montesso will join the training camp which is expected to fine tune the physical, tactical and mental preparation of the national team. While in Brazil two practice games are being organized for the team.

The Jamaican delegation will travel on June 2nd to Los Angeles for Jamaica's first game against Grenada at the Home Depot Stadium on June 6 beginning 6:00 pm. Jamaica plays its second game against Guatemala on June 10 in Miami and its final group game against Honduras on June 13 New Jersey. Join the discussion in the forum

Jamaica showing interest in a number of foreign players
May 21, 2011
The media buzz is that the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is looking to widen the pool of players for the senior team ahead of the FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign later this year and they are showing interest in a number of foreign players. Some of the names being touted are Everton’s striker Jermaine Beckford, West Ham’s Zavon Hines, Birmingham City’s Luke Hubbard and Nathan Smith of Yeovil Town.

After his move last summer from Leeds United to Everton, the 27 years old Beckford has scored seven goals in his first season. It was reported in the Jamaica Online Star that Beckford is said to be seriously considering the idea but will not be able to make a until later this year due to family reasons.

Jamaican born Zavon Hines, 22, is an attacking player who has represented England at the Under-21 level against the Macedonia. Hines came on as a second-half substitute for for Theo Walcott, and scored twice in their 6–3 victory. In 2009, Hines was called up by Jamaica for their friendly international against Nigeria. The game finished 0–0 and Hines did not play.

Not much information is available on Hubbard, a midfielder on Birmingham City reserve team, but it was reported that both he and Nathan Smith, a 24-year-old left back with English League One team Yeovil Town had already filed for their Jamaican citizenship application to show that they are committed to joining the national setup.

The Jamaica Online Star went on to report that JFF general secretary Horace Reid confirmed that discussions were under way with several players and stressed the importance of the level of commitment shown by each player. Read more on the players being scouted in the forum.

Chris Humphrey called up to squad for Brazil
May 20, 2011
It had been reported in various media sources that Scotland based Motherwell winger Chris Humphrey has been called up by the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) for their three-week camp in Brazil. The 22-year-old Jamaican born Humphrey, is also eligible to play for Scotland due to the fact that his mother was born in Kilmarnock, said he is really happy that Jamaica was the first to offer him the chance to play international football.

Humphrey, who has been very impressive this season, has been attracting the attention of a number of Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Bolton and Birmingham. Humphrey is also a key player in helping Motherwell reach the Scottish Cup final against Celtic.

In an interview with skysports.com, Humphrey said he delighted to be called up by Jamaica for their training camp in Brazil and it is a huge honor to play international football. He said he is looking forward to linking up with the Jamaican squad.

Humphrey was first brought to the attention of the forum by Reggae Boyz Sports Analyst and Forum Member, Jamaicanyouth, who is been credited for his recommendation to the JFF. Follow or Join the discussion on the calling up of Humphrey to the Jamaican team

Gama new Technical Director of the Reggae Boyz
May, 13, 2011
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) announced that they have retained the services of four Brazilian coaches to work with the national football program. Professor Walter Gama is now the new Technical Director and will be responsible for overall development of the nation's game. Assisting Gama in various areas of the technical structure will be his son Luciano Gama, Professor Alfredo Montesso and Joao Brigatti.

The president of the JFF, Captain Horace Burrell, said that all four coaches will be given a three-year contract with a combined salary of US$50,000 per month. He further stated that the JFF could only guarantee the salaries for six months at this time and that his administration would be seeking added support from corporate Jamaica to help fund the salary of these coaches.

Alfredo Montesso will assist Theodore Whitmore as coach of the senior men’s team, and also be in charge of the Jamaica's Under-23 Olympic team. Luciano Gama will be assigned as head coach of men's Under-20 team and will be assisted by Andrew Edwards. Brigatti will be a goalkeeper coach alongside Warren Barrett and Clive Wedderburn. Wendell Downswell and his assistant Omar Edwards will continue to lead the World Cup-bound Under-17 team. Vin Blaine stays as the head coach of the Women's teams with assistance from Xavier Gilbert and Merron Gordon.

Also in the agreement, the Brazilians will provide lectures at the JFF/UTech coaching seminars to aid in the development of Jamaican coaches. Follow the new technical director discussion here

Liverpool eyes highly-rated Jamaican-born Chris Humphrey of Motherwell
May 13, 2011
The rumour mill is buzzing with the word that Jamaican-born midfielder, Chris Humphrey, has attracted the attention of a host of Barclays Premier League clubs following an impressive season in the Scottish Premier League. A published report on the Daily Mail, states that the 22-year-old Humphrey, a winger with Motherwell, could be the summer target of Liverpool, Newcastle, Bolton, Birmingham and Everton. Liverpool are reportedly sending a scout to monitor his performance later this month when Motherwell takes on Celtic on May 21. Humphrey's previously played with Walsall, Shrewsbury via West Bromwich Albion, before becoming signing with Motherwell in 2009. More Chris Humphrey in the forum

Player On The Move - Akeem Priestley
The Los Angeles Blues have announce the signing of Jamaican Akeem Priestley for the 2011 USL PRO season, pending USSF and USL approval. Priestley who played ball at the University of Connecticut was drafted in 2009 by MLS side Kansas City Wizards but was subsequently released.

Priestly represented Harbour View Football Club in Jamaica before going on loan to Azerbaijan Premier League outfit FC Mughan for the 2009/10 season. The versatile attacker then travelled to the Shamrock Rovers in Ireland but was unable to get clearance. The 25 YO Priestley is a Jamaica national representative and has earned six caps for the Reggae Boyz. More on Akeem in the Forum

Jamaican football coaches required to have certification
May 11, 2011
Coaches in Jamaica’s top league, the Digicel Premier League, will now be required to have an Advanced Level II certification according to a release issued by the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF).

The move is part of the JFF's effort to standardize local coaching practices, in order to improve football on a national level. To facilitate the changes, The JFF have been and will continue the staging of clinics in conjunction with the Jamaica Money Market Brokers and University of Technology (UTech). The ninth staging of these series of courses is expected to run over the next five weeks and a second course will be held from August 17-September 1.

In addition to getting certified at the Premier League level, coaches at the primary and preparatory schools level, as well as those who conditions teams in the schoolboy Manning and DaCosta Cup competitions, Major League and Women's League, must be Level I-compliant. Read more on the certification

Jamaican Players On The Move
May 11, 2011
OUT: Reggae Boyz Claude Davis was released by his club English football Crystal Palace this morning. Davis had been with the club since February 2009 when he was on loan and then permanently since September 2009. He has made 59 appearances for the club…Read more here

OUT: Jamaican international Omar Daley was released by Bradford City. Daley had been with the club since January 2007 and was a fan’s favorite. Daley, who has played over 50 times for his country, was named in the PFA League Two Team of the Year at the end of the 2008-09 campaign. Injuries have been in retarding Daley's career at Bradford. After suffering a knee injury in February 2009, he had a series of setbacks but was still able to score five goals from 22 starts for the club this season.Read more on Daley's release

IN: Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Houston Dynamo has signed Jamaica and Sporting Central Academy midfielder JeVaughn Watson. The club reported that Watson played central midfield in preseason and impressed at two positions, holding midfielder and attacking midfielder, and showed eagerness to get forward and eagerness to defend. Watson has made two starts in a row since joining the team and each time going the distance. He has been featured in right midfielder, and has been effective with two assists this season. JeVaughn has appeared eight times for Jamaica. Read More here

FIFA instructs JFF to reduce its excessive member board
May 05, 2011
At a recent JAMAICA Football Federation (JFF) leadership seminar held at the Iberiostar Beach Resort in Montego Bay, the JFF was instructed by FIFA to reduce it’s 33-member board by 21 members in keeping with "modern trends. Jamaica currently has the largest board of all 208 FIFA member associations.

With the governing body of FIFA consisting of 24 members, it exposes the ridiculous excess of the JFF member board and a need for immediate restructuring. The JFF will now be required to follow the standards and administrative structures FIFA has established for its member organizations to assist them in the development of the sport.

The head of the JFF Captain Horace Burrell said now that FIFA has standardize the way member boards should function, the JFF has taken steps with their legal department to assist all the Football Associations to fall in line with modern and normal practices.

The current JFF board consists of parish presidents; representatives of the four Confederations; heads of standing committees; affiliates and elected officials.

Other matters of importance covered at the meeting included training and development for board members, a review of the current competition structures; developing new revenue streams and expanding branding opportunities.

Boyz defeat El Salvador 3-2
Led by two goals from New York Red Bulls winger Dane Richards and another from striker Omar Cummings of the Colorado Rapids, the Reggae Boyz overcame the hostile Central American environment to defeat El Salvador 3-2 at the Cuscatlan Stadium on Tuesday night. El Salvador got their goals through Jaime Alas just before the half-time break, and Lester Blanco in the second minute of time added.

The Reggae Boyz found themselves playing the last thirty minutes without central midfielder Damion Williams, who was ejected for a second bookable offence. The Boyz also survived a missed penalty in the 75 minute from substitute Osael Romero after Guatemalan referee Elmar Rodas made a harsh handball call against Javaughn Watson of Jamaica.

The performance of the Reggae Boyz was a vast improvement over the 2-0 defeat dished out by Venezuela on the previous Friday in Jamaica.

Although this game is expected to be the last friendly international for the senior team prior to this summer's CONCACAF Gold Cup in the USA, coach Whitmore is hoping that the JFF can organize at least another friendly international as he fine tunes his squad.

After watching the El Salvador game highlights and speaking to Khari Stevenson about the El Salvador match to gain some insight, forum member Tennisman shares his views of where the Senior ReggaeBoyz stand at the moment. Read more of Tennisman's views here

Reggae Boyz to see action against Venezuela and El Salvador
March 18, 2011
After a period of inactivity, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz are set to see action again as they are scheduled to face South American outfit Venezuela at the Montego Bay Sports Complex on March 25, followed by El Salvador on March 27 in San Salvador.

The president of the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) Captain Horace Burrell said both games fit into the team’s preparation for the upcoming Gold Cup and the World Cup Qualifiers later in the year.

Stoke City's Ricardo Fuller, Dane Richards of the NY Red Bulls and San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Khari Stephenson are among 12 overseas-based Reggae Boyz called up by head coach Theodore Whitmore. The two matches will allow Whitmore and the technical staff to continue to look at available players for the national senior team.

When Jamaica faces Venezuela it will be the fourth meeting between the two teams. In the three previous encounters, Jamaica has won once, Venezuela once and there has been one drawn game. The teams first met when Jamaica was being coached by then Technical Director Rene Simoes on February 12, 1997 in Jamaica. That game ended in a 0-0 draw. Six years later Jamaica went down to Caracas, Venezuela at the El Estadio Olimpico, and suffered a 2-0 loss. In 2004 the Venezuelans lost to Jamaica 2-1 in front of a large gathering at the ‘Office’ in Kingston Jamaica. (Read more on the Venezuela game in the forum)

The Reggae Boyz last meeting against El Salvador was in the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2009 where the Boyz were 1-0 winner and two years earlier they defeated their Central American opponents 3-0 in a friendly at the National Stadium. (Read more on the El Salvador game in the forum)

The full list of overseas-based players who will join the locally based players already in camp are: Shaver Thomas (Kansas City Wizards, United States); Dane Richards (NY Red Bulls United States); Ricardo Fuller (Stoke City, United Kingdom); Luton Shelton (Valerenga, Norway); Dwayne Miller (Syrianska, Sweden); Dwayne Kerr (Strommen IF, Norway); Jermaine Taylor (Houston Dynamo, United States); Demar Phillips (Aalesund Fc, Norway); Khari Stephenson(San Jose Earthquakes, United States); Damion Williams(Nybergsund, Norway); Kavin Bryan (Song ham Nghe, Vietnam); Rudolph Austin (SK Bran, Belgium). More news in the forum

Jamaica advances to U-17 semis and to World Cup
February 24, 2011
MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica - A goal in each half from Jason Wright gave Jamaica a 2-1 victory over Honduras and propelled them to the semifinals of the CONCACAF championship and a spot in the Under-17 World Cup in Mexico.

The final four semi-finalist will play on Friday with Jamaica against the United States and Canada meeting Panama. All four teams have qualified for the World Cup.

From the opening whistle, host Jamaica took control of the game and pressed their opponents as early as the sixth minute when Omar Holness sent a shot from the top of the area just over the crossbar. The young Reggae Boyz were rewarded in the 13th minute as a long throw-in into the area from Holness deflected out to Wright who was ideally positioned to blast the ball into the back of the goal from eight meters out.

Honduras keeper Roberto Lopez was called upon a number of times to keep Jamaica at bay for the rest of the half including two consecutive saves in the 42nd, stopping a one-on-one with Jevani Brown and moments later he did the same to a rebounded shot from Wright.

On the resumption, the Boyz were again rewarded when Wright doubled the lead in the 46th minute. Collecting a ball fed by Brown from the byline, Wright controlled the ball, turned to his right and blasted a low shot into the goal.

Honduras struggled to maintain possession but had an opportunity in the 51st when David Carranza managed a shot high from 20 meters out. Honduras pulled a goal back when substitute Bryan Rochez drove header inside the far post past Odean Clarke in goal.

With the game slipping away from Honduras they pushed forward in numbers and managed to gain an equal share of possession and chances but was unable to find the equalizer before the final whistle.... More in the Forum

JAMAICA — Odean Clarke, Oshane Jenkins, Kemo Wallace, Alvas Powell, Quante Smith, Romario Williams, Omar Holness (Patrick Palmer 82nd), Jason Wright, Andre Lewis, Jevani Brown (Romario Jones 72nd), Shawn-Claud Lawson (Cardell Benbow 66th). Subs not used: Richard Trench, Junior Flemmings, Troy Moo Penn, Ramone Brown. Booked: Jenkins (70th), Jones (90th)

HONDURAS — Roberto Lopez, Jeffri Flores, Eder Velasquez, Julio Moncada (72nd), David Caranaza, (Carlos Valentin 55th) Jose Barralaga, Arnaldo Alvarado, Ramon Amador, Carlos Andrade (Bryan Rochez 63rd), Joshua Neito, Jose Escalante. Subs not used: Allan Torres, Kelvin Nunezs, Manuel Meija, Tony Cerrato Booked: Amador (36th)... More in the Forum

Jamaica advance to U-17 quarterfinals with 1-0 win
February 20, 2011
A goal in first-half injury time gave Jamaica a 1-0 victory over Guatemala on Saturday to keep their Under-17 World Cup dream is alive at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.

Jamaica and Trinidad ended on top of Group C with four points, and the drawing of lots determined that Jamaica will face Group D runner-up Honduras in Wednesday's quarterfinals while Trinidad must play Group D winner Canada. The defeat was the second for Guatemala leaving them pointless in the three-team group.

An unmarked Jason Wright converted a cross in the 45th minute to scored the winner after a brilliant overlapping run down the left side by defender Alvas Powell. This was Wright's second goal of the tournament. For most of the first half both sides were unable to generate any real scoring chances. Before the goal, Jamaica's best opportunity came in the 40th minute when a half volley from Omar Holness went just wide.

Guatemala came close in the 51st but failed to capitalize on a fumbled free kick in front of the Jamaican goal. Jamaica continued to dominate the second half and came close on a few occasions as shot a from Jevani Brown closely flew over the crossbar and one from Powell was saved by Hernandez in goal for Guatemala. More in the Forum

CONCACAF U-17 Results - Day 4
T&T 1 Guatemala 0
Adan Noel scored one minute into second-half stoppage time to give Trinidad & Tobago a 1-0 victory over Guatemala on Thursday to reach the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship. Guatemala will meet host Jamaica on Saturday and must win to advance.

Canada 8 Barbados 0
Michael Petrasso secured a 8-0 victory over Barbados on Thursday to earn a place in the quarterfinals of the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship.

CONCACAF U-17 Results - Day 3
Panama 0 Cuba 0
Panama wasted a penalty kick and settled for a 0-0 draw against Cuba on day three at the CONCACAF Under-17 Championship. Panama will play the United States who already qualifed for the quarterfinals on Friday

CONCACAF U-17 Results - Day 2
Jamaica and T&T play to 2-2 tie
Feb 15, 2011
Jamaica kept their hopes alive in the CONCACAF U17 Championship by coming from behind to hold Caribbean rival Trinidad and Tobago to a 2-2 draw at Catherine Hall Stadium.

Jamaica started favorites in front of their home crowd and look the better team for most of the first half. The young Reggae Boyz went ahead in the 42 minute when they were awarded a penalty by Mexican referee Ricardo Arellano. Jason Wright easily converted by sending T&T’s goalkeeper Quesi Weston the wrong way.

Trinidad, one of only two Caribbean teams to advance through qualifying undefeated, came roaring back in the second half and missed a chance to equalize in the 49th minute when a header from Jomal Williams' went wide.

Eight minutes later, Trinidad’s Shackiel Henry tied the match when Jamaica goalkeeper Richard Trench fumbled a free kick into the path of Henry who easily put it in the net. Henry struck again in the 64th minute, taking advantage poor defending by Jamaica.

Romario Williams equalized for the "Young Boyz" in the 70th minute to give Jamaica a draw in their opening game. Jamaica next game will be on Saturday, February 19 when they face Guatemala at the Catherine Hall Stadium.

In the other game played today, Honduras defeated Barbados 2-1...More in the Forum

CONCACAF U-17 Results - Day 1
Costa Rica 3 Haiti 1
Feb 14, 2011
Costa Rica defeated Haiti 3-1 in the opening game the CONCACAF Under-17 Football Tournament in Jamaica. William Quiros gave Costa Rica a 1-0 lead in the 24th minute but Haiti equalized with a goal from Johnley Chery. Gabriel Leiva put Costa Rica ahead just before the end of the first half and John Ruiz sealed the win two minutes into the second half. Haiti was down to 10 men in the 83rd minute when Renato Etienne was given his marching orders. Costa Rica next faces El Salvador on Friday while Haiti will need a victory against El Salvador on Wednesday to stay alive. Read More in the forum

Unites States 3 Cuba 1
Feb 14, 2011
The United States defeated Cuba 3-1 in their opening game of the CONCACAF Under-17 Football Tournament. Alfred Karoma put the United States ahead in the 27th minute followed by a goal from Andrew Olive two minutes into the second half. Esteban Rodriguez Jr increased the lead to 3-0 in the 50th minute. Frank Lopez pulled one back for Cuba in the 68th minute. The United States next faces Panama on Friday while Cuba will play Panama on Wednesday. Read More in the forum

Young Reggae Boyz confident ahead of CONCACAF U-17 Tournament
Feb.13, 2011
Jamaica will host the CONCACAF Under-17 Football Tournament to be staged in Jamaica between February 14 and 27. The tournament will feature 12 teams from the Caribbean, Central America and North America and have been split into four groups - A, B, C and D. The top four teams from the tournament will advance to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Mexico from June 18-July 10, 2011.

The competing teams are Costa Rica, Haiti, Cuba, United States, Barbados, Honduras, Trinidad & Tobago, El Salvador, Panama, Canada, Guatemala and Jamaica. The top two teams in each group will advance to the quarterfinals with Groups A & B winners playing the runners up of the opposing group on February 22 while Groups C & D will follow the next day.  The semifinals will be played February 25 with the third-place and finals two days later.

Jamaica will see action in Group C along with Trinidad & Tobago and Guatemala. Group A consists of Costa Rica, El Salvador and Haiti. Group B has the United States, Panama, Cuba and Group D brings together Honduras, Canada, Barbados.

Haiti will face Costa Rica and Cuba will play the United States on the opening day February 14 in Trelawny while the young Reggae Boyz will play their first match on Tuesday at 3 p.m at Catherine Hall. The young Reggae Boyz are well prepared for the tournament and are considered one of the favorites to advance to Mexico.

After a six-week training session in Brazil, the Jamaicans played a series of practice matches leading up to the tournament. The first friendly game was against the USA U-17 on January 27 and ended in a 0-0 draw. A second encounter against the USA on January 30 saw the Americans squeezing out a 2-1 win over the young Boyz. Jamaica followed up with a  3-2 victory against Haiti on February 6 but ended their preparation with a 1-0 loss to Costa Rica on Thursday.

The Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium was scheduled to host the three doubleheaders but failed a FIFA final inspection on Wednesday and has been replaced by Jarrett Park in Montego Bay. The opening double header will now be played at the Catherine Hall Stadium in Montego Bay, with Jarrett Park scheduled as the venue for matches on Wednesday, February 16, and Friday, February 18.

See the full CONCACAF U-17 Championship Schedule or take look at the U-17 players representing Jamaican in the tournament.

U-17 Reggae Boyz lose practice match to USA
Feb. 1, 2011
Jamaica's under-17 footballers lost their second practice match against their American counterparts 2-1 at Jarrett Park in Montego Bay, St. James on Sunday.

Esteban Rodriquez gave the Americans the lead in the 45th minute when they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Marc Pelosi. Seven minutes into the second half Alfred Koroma added another to make it 2-0. Jamaica's Omar Holness scored a header in the 67th minute to give the young Reggae Boyz their consolation goal.

The game became hot tempered and a melee broke out where punches were thrown after a rash of harsh tackles late in the games. It led to the entire US bench storming onto the field and a number of yellow cards issued.

Both teams teams played to a nil all draw in the first practice match last Thursday and were using the matches as preparation for the CONCACAF under-17 world cup qualifiers set for Jamaica later this month.

TEAMS
Jamaica -- Keino Wallace, Richard Trench (Niko Campbell-81st), Patrick Palmer, Oshane Jenkins, Romario Jones, Melvin Blair (Troy Moo-Pen 65th), Omar Holness, Jason Wright, (Romario Williams 64th), Patrick Hadden (Noel Johnson 59th), Quante Smith, Shawn Lawson (Jovia Roberts 54th). Subs not used: Odean Clarke, Roman Brown, Jason Jacobs, Junior Flemming, Cordel Benbow, Kaya Beckford Booked: Q Smith (45th), Jenkins (73rd), Williams (80th)

United States -- Nathan Smith, Mobi Fehr, Alfred Koroma (Andrew Oliver 81st), Marc Pelosi, Alejandro Guido (Zach Carroll 78th), Kellyn Acosta, Andrew Souders (Tarick Salkicic 90th), Matt Dunn, Fernando Pina, Jack McBean, Esteban Rodriquez (Jordan Allen 70th). Subs not used: Kendell McIntosh, Joe Amon, Paul Arriola, Christian Duarte, Mario Rodriques. Booked: Jack McBean (73rd), Carroll (80th). More in the forum

GAME ! RESULT
Jan 27, 2011
Jamaica' U-17 and the US U-17 drew 0-0 in the first game of their 2 friendly games here in Montego Bay

Young Boyz warm up against the US
Jan 27, 2011
Jamaica will host the United States in two friendly games as they continue their preparation for next month’s CONCACAF U-17 World Cup Qualifiers.  The games will be played at Jarrett Park, the first on Friday and the second on Sunday.

Jamaica is coming off a six-week training camp in Brazil and head coach Wendell Downswell is confident that the experience gained will have a positive effect on the team. Although a good result is important, the coach and his staff will be using the game to look at different formations and strategies.

The U.S. U-17 Men’s National Team is in Jamaica for a seven-day training camp that will be a lead up to the upcoming CONCACAF U-17 Championship and will use the games to get familiar the conditions. The last time both met in 1999 they drew 0-0.

The US will return home on Feb. 3 to continue preparing for the CONCACAF Championship before heading back to Jamaica on Feb. 10.

On the recent tour of Brazil, the young Reggae Boyz won four of their nine matches. Their maturity over the period has impressed their coach, and he indicated that at the end of CONCACAF Under-17 Championship, Jamaica will be one of the four qualifiers for the upcoming FIFA Under-17 World Cup.

Jamaica will play their first game in the CONCACAF tournament on February 15 against Trinidad and Tobago at the Montego Bay Sports Complex, beginning at 3:00 pm.

The US starts their campaign against Cuba a day earlier at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium. Read more in the Forum

The Reggae Boyz Year In Review
January 9, 2011
The Reggae Boyz were very active in 2010 playing 13 games, winning 9, losing 3 with 1 tie. They capped off the year by defending their Digicel Caribbean Championship Crown and remained the number 1 team in the Caribbean.

January - Boyz win 1-0 over Canada
Jamaica's Reggae Boyz outplayed Canada to win 1-0 at the National Stadium in Jamaica. Luton Shelton scored the only goal midway the second half.

February -Argentina squeeze 2-1 win over Jamaica
Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz fell to two late goals as Argentina fought back to a 2-1 win in an international friendly Wednesday at the Jose Minela stadium outside of Burnos Aires. Ryan Johnson scored a header for Jamaica early in the second half

April - World Cup Host South Africa stops Jamaica 2-0
World Cup hosts South Africa defeated Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz 2-0 in a friendly international at Kickers Offenbach Stadium on Wednesday | See the full list of games and results here

DIGICEL CARIBBEAN CUP RESULTS

12-01-10: GROUP I : Jamaica 4 vs Guyana 0
11-29-10: GROUP I : Jamaica 2 vs Guadeloupe 0
11-29-10: GROUP I : Antigua & Barbuda 1 vs Guyana 0
11-28-10: GROUP H: Martinique 0 vs Cuba 1
11-28-10: GROUP H: Grenada 1 vs Trinidad & Tobago 0
11-27-10: GROUP I: Jamaica 3 vs Antigua & Barbuda1
11-27-10: GROUP I: Guadeloupe 1 vs Guyana 1
11-26-10: GROUP H: Cuba 2 vs Trinidad & Tobago 0 Read About it here
11-26-10: GROUP H: Martinique 1 vs Grenada 1 Read about herest a diving Duwayne Kerr in goal. Jamaica pressed hard for the equalizer but was kept at bay by a strong Panamanian defense.

Read Jamaica Football News in 2010