Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Trinidad & Tobago in the first of their two-match international friendly series at the Montego Bay Sports Complex on Thursday night. A late goal from centre-back Sue-Lae McCalla proved decisive, giving the home side a much-needed win.

McCalla, the 32-year-old defender from Jamaica Premier League leaders Mount Pleasant FC, broke the deadlock in the 80th minute with his maiden international goal in just his fourth appearance. His strike finally gave the small but spirited crowd at the Catherine Hall Sports Complex something to cheer about.

The match was a physical encounter but lacked attacking flair, mirroring the scrappy back-to-back friendlies played between these two sides in Jamaica last year. Despite Jamaica’s struggles in front of goal in recent months—scoring only once in their previous three games—McCalla stepped up to secure the win and spare head coach Steve McClaren’s blushes.

For Trinidad & Tobago, the loss extends the winless start for head coach Dwight Yorke, who took charge last November. The Soca Warriors have now failed to register a victory in his two outings at the helm.

The series will now shift to Kingston for the second and final match at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex on Sunday. Both teams will be looking to put on an improved display, with Yorke aiming to find solutions to his team’s goal-scoring woes, while McClaren will be hoping for a more convincing performance from his side.