After registering an historic win in an overtime thriller against Poland, the US Virgin Islands registered another as they edged Jamaica 19-18 in a pulsating Caribbean derby for consolation placement at the World Lacrosse Box Championship in Utica, New York, on Wednesday.

The US Virgin Islands, appearing in its first World Lacrosse championship of any kind, proved that they possess some quality with the overtime win over their more experienced Jamaican counterparts, thanks to a late hat-trick from Phillip Melecio.

Melecio’s three goals came 49 seconds into overtime of what was an emotionally charged contest that featured a lengthy injury delay, as Jamaica’s Isaac Newland suffered a nasty collision.

However, the player took to social media to let family and friends know he was in good spirits.

“I want to thank my teammates, family, doctors, and medical staff for all the prayers. I will be OK. This is Ocho, and I do my own stunts. I love the Lacrosse community, so see you all in the field soon,” Newland’s post read.

The two teams traded runs all game, and the final five minutes and 15 seconds were no exception. Jamaica netted three unanswered goals to take a 17-16 lead with just over four minutes left in regulation.

USVI later responded with two goals to regain the lead, before Tanner Sims fired in an equaliser for Jamaica with under 30 seconds left to send the contest into overtime.

Dante Poli influenced the game for the USVI with five goals and four assists. Melecio and Matt Williams each added hat-tricks, and Ryan Cochran finished with two goals and four assists. In net, Patrick Crosby saved 28 shots.

For the Jamaicans, Sims tallied seven goals and an assist, and Damon Edwards recorded five assists to go with a hat-trick. Seven other Jamaican players scored goals, including two from Jemar Pottinger. Jacob Thompson made 28 saves.

USVI will face Scotland on Thursday in placement play, while Jamaica will take on Hungary.