Phillip Williams’ side was hampered by injuries and it showed as Portmore completely dominated the game. They created several chances throughout and maintained constant pressure using tempo and ball possession.

Tivoli would eventually crack in the 36th minute when Odean Pennycooke attempted to head clear of the box only to see Jevick McFarlane’s volley rocket past the goalkeeper, who was caught out of his goal.

Distracted by the first goal, Tivoli conceded a second two minutes later when debutant Demar Rose scored from a low cross from Shande James.

Portmore added a third in the 60^th minute when Captain Ricardo Morris’ corner kick had just enough curve to hit the back of the net at the far post.

Tivoli struggled for most of the game and only had 37 per cent of the possession and registered just five shots at goal, three of them on target. Things got worse when goalkeeper Kewong Watkins was sent off in the 51st minute after receiving a second yellow for a foul on McFarlane.

Despite being down to 10 men, however, they managed to score in the 71st minute via a free-kick from Rodico Wellington that took a deflection off the wall and left goalkeeper Kemar Foster stranded at the near post.

Portmore United’s coach, Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardner, was pleased with the team’s performance.

“We continue to improve with each week and it is good to see that we’re getting a couple of goals,” he said.

“Would have loved to keep a clean sheet but, unfortunately, we have to be a little bit more professional about our performances and not get tired of the good habits.”

At the end of the match, McFarlane was named as the man of the match.

With the win, Portmore United, who were fourth before the match, moved to the top of the table with 9 points while Tivoli Gardens remain 7th with 4 points.

Matches continue on Saturday with a double header. Vere United play Harbour View at 1pm and Dunbeholden clash with Molynes United at 3:30pm. Both games will be played at the National Stadium.