After much contemplation and being torn between representing the Three Lions of England or donning the Jamaican colours, defender Mason Holgate has finally made his decision and it is the Reggae Boyz that will have his full allegiance moving forward.

The 27-year-old, who qualifies to represent Jamaica through his grandparents, has officially committed his international future to the Caribbean nation, a choice that brought a wave of excitement to fans and team members alike.

For Holgate, the decision was far from easy given his upbringing in England and years of competing in the English football system.

In a previous interview, Holgate said he was open to representing Jamaica, while in another he expressed optimism about an England call-up, noting that "everybody wants to play for England. When you're a kid, that's the ultimate.”

Yet, it is his Jamaican roots that eventually pulled at Holgate’s heartstrings, and he is now set to make his debut with the senior Reggae Boyz in their upcoming Concacaf Nations League fixture against Honduras at the National Stadium on Monday.

Though he is with the squad in Nicaragua for their Group B top-of-the-table clash in League A, Holgate will sit out that contest as the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) awaits clearance from FIFA.

Still, Holgate is brimming with excitement.

“I am really excited to be part of the team, and I can't wait to get out there for my first game,” Holgate declared.

“My grandparents on my dad’s side are Jamaican, and so much of who I am is connected to this place. There's obviously a lot to look forward to in this team, so I'm excited to be here.  Obviously, the boys made me feel quite welcome straight away, so, I've enjoyed the day or so that I've been here so far,” he added.

Holgate’s path to international football has been a unique one. He started his career at Barnsley before making the move to Everton, where he spent several seasons honing his skills in the English Premier League (EPL).

During that time, he earned caps for England at the youth level, featuring for the Under-20 and Under-21 teams. The senior call, however, never materialized, and that left him at a crossroads regarding his international future.

The tipping point for Holgate came as he watched Jamaica’s gradual improvement in recent years, particularly where the make-up of the team is concerned in their push for World Cup qualification.

Seeing the likes of former Everton teammate Demarai Gray, West Ham United’s Michail Antonio, Leicester City’s Bobby Reid, and others demonstrate their unflinching desire to bring success to Jamaica’s football made it clear to Holgate that he could play a pivotal role in helping the Reggae Boyz reach the next level.

“I got on really well with Dimmy [Gray], and since we both left Everton, obviously he moved to Saudi Arabia, so I haven’t seen him for a year or so now. But we're good friends; we speak all the time, so I was really looking forward to seeing him, and when I got here and saw him, I was buzzing,” Holgate shared.

“But, yeah, I've been in the Premier League and the Championship going on League One for 10 years, so quite a lot of the boys, I know from just playing against and stuff like that. So it's been quite easy for me to come in because I've played against and knew quite a lot of them before,” the West Bromwich Albion loanee stated.

Holgate’s experience at the highest level of English football will undoubtedly be a boost to Jamaica’s defensive ranks, and his versatility across the backline makes him a valuable asset as Englishman Steve McClaren looks to fortify his squad with a 2026 FIFA World Cup appearance in mind.

“I think it's just a very exciting time to be part of the team. Obviously, with the new manager who's done so much before in football, and also, if you look at the squad, it gets better and it seems to look stronger every camp. We all have the goal of going to the World Cup, and that's what I want to do, and that's why I am here, and I believe that I can help get us to that point,” Holgate ended.

Having long aspired to represent Jamaica’s senior Sunshine Girls, Zaudi Green is on the brink of realising that long-awaited dream.

Green’s selection to debut at the upcoming Fast5 Netball World Series, scheduled for November 9 and 10 in New Zealand as part of an inexperienced squad, marks a significant milestone in her netball journey, one that has been defined by hard work and overcoming personal setbacks.

For Green, playing for the Sunshine Girls is a source of immense pride, as she is well aware of the legacy of excellence built by numerous players over the years. As such, she is honoured to be among the next generation of players striving to make their mark.

“Making the Fast5 team is a very big deal for me. I'm so grateful and honoured to have been selected to represent my country. It has been a big dream of mine to represent Jamaica, and I am so happy that I am now getting the opportunity to do so,” Green told SportsMax.Tv.

“It’s such a privilege to be a part of the legacy built by past and present players, and this serves as encouragement to work even harder. I’m here to learn, to improve, and to be a positive influence for the team. This opportunity is also a stepping stone for me to really push my career in netball, so I intend to go out there, showcase my talent, and represent my country,” she added.

Ever since she took up the sport in primary school, Green nurtured the thought of making it to the world stage. Now as she gets closer to parading her skills in fast-paced, high-energy Fast5 format, Green knows that every step of the journey has prepared her for this moment. But getting to this point was anything but easy.

Back in 2017, Green, a past student of Excelsior High and GC Foster College, suffered a severe patellar injury that threatened to derail her dreams.

Forced to spend months away from the sport she loves, Green, who won numerous titles during her school days, was left with a choice—give up or fight back harder than ever. She chose the latter, embarking on a grueling rehabilitation process that not only healed her knee but also strengthened her resolve.

“It was a really tough time for me,” Green recalled.

“I remember feeling so frustrated because I wanted to be out on the court playing and improving. But looking back, that injury taught me patience and perseverance and increased my faith in God, knowing that without Him, nothing is possible. It made me realize how much I love the sport and how much I’m willing to push myself to get better,” the Manchester Spurs representative shared.

“It shows that whatever I put my mind to, I can achieve it because when I got that injury, I thought that was the end of my career before it even took off. But I chose not to wallow in self-pity, instead, I saw it as an opportunity to bounce back stronger, which I did, and here I am now,” Green noted.

That determination has shaped her approach ever since. When Green eventually returned to the court, she was more focused and determined to achieve her goals. Her performances in local competitions quickly caught the attention of national selectors, and her relentless drive paid off when she received the call-up for the Fast5 squad.

“All the sacrifices, the pain, and the struggles were worth it. I'm really excited and happy to really go somewhere else and showcase my talent, so I'm preparing myself both mentally and physically to go hard when I get to New Zealand to ensure that I am ready and strong to give my best for the team and for my country,” she said with an air of confidence.

The mid-court player is well aware that the Fast5 Series is not only a chance to prove herself on the international stage but also a potential gateway to a professional career.

With scouts from the ANZ Premiership and the Suncorp Super Netball League always on the lookout for emerging talent, Green knows that a strong performance in New Zealand could open doors to an overseas contract—a coveted milestone for many aspiring netballers.

“Representing Jamaica is my dream, but I also want to go further and compete at the highest levels, like the ANZ and Suncorp Leagues. Those competitions have some of the best players in the world, and to be part of that would be incredible. I want to show that I belong on that stage and hopefully earn an opportunity to play professionally,” she admitted.

For now, though, Green is keeping her focus on the task at hand, which is to help the Sunshine Girls put in a strong performance in New Zealand. She knows that her debut will be a learning experience and, as such, is eager to soak up every moment on and off the court.

“I’m just trying to take everything in, learn as much as I can, and play my role for the team. The Fast5 format is intense and requires quick thinking and adaptability, but I’m ready to give it my all. I just want to do my best and make my family, my coaches, and my country proud,” Green stated.

“I really think we have a great chance of making it to the finals once we continue to have faith in each other, work hard, hold each other accountable, and, more importantly, have fun; we should give a good account of ourselves,” she ended.

Squad: Shadine Bartley, Paula-Ann Burton, Simone Gordon, Zaudi Green, Tiffany Langley, Roxanna McLean, Amanda Pinkney, Kimone Shaw, Kestina Sturridge, Corneilia Walters

After almost a year on the outside watching from a distance, Tyreek Magee is now buzzing with excitement about his return to Jamaica’s senior Reggae Boyz set up for their upcoming Concacaf Nations League fixtures against Nicaragua and Honduras.

Magee, whose name is synonymous with flair and creativity in the midfield, seems set to make his first senior Reggae Boyz appearance since late last year, and it is an opportunity he is hoping to grasp with a showcase his growth to once again re-establish himself on the international stage.

The 25-year-old has been holding his own in the USL Championship with Colorado Switchbacks, scoring three goals in 13 appearances, as he has impressed fans and critics alike with his performances this season.

Magee’s consistent displays and creative vision caught the eye of Reggae Boyz Head coach, Steve McClaren, who believes his inclusion could bolster a squad brimming with attacking talent for the October 10 and 14 League A encounters.

For Magee, the return to the national fold is both a validation of his hard work and a stepping stone for what’s to come.

“I'm definitely happy to be back in the squad. It's been a while now, so I'm looking forward to it,” Magee, who has 10 international caps, said in an interview ahead of the team’s departure for Nicaragua.

“I’m excited and looking forward to making the most of this opportunity. As I said before, it’s been a while since I’ve been with the squad, and I’ve been putting in a lot of work to make sure I’m ready. I need to affect the games as much as possible, so whatever minutes I get, I need to make the most of it so I'm really looking forward to these two games,” he added.

The former Jamaica College and Harbour View FC standout has had an eventful journey since leaving the island for opportunities abroad. After a four-year spell in Belgium with KAS Eupen, Magee found his rhythm again in the USL, where he has been lauded for his technical ability and leadership on the pitch.

Despite the challenges of adjusting to different leagues and styles of play, Magee never lost sight of his goal—returning to the Reggae Boyz setup. His inclusion in the squad comes at a pivotal time for Jamaica, as they look to secure vital points in the Nations League and continue building momentum under McClaren’s leadership.

These upcoming matches — away to Nicaragua on Thursday and at home to Honduras next Monday — are crucial in shaping the Boyz’ path toward potential qualification for the Concacaf Gold Cup and, ultimately, the 2026 World Cup.

The Boyz currently head Group B on four points, same as Nicaragua, with Honduras (three points) and Cuba (two points) in close quarters. French Guiana and Trinidad and Tobago round out the group with a point each.

McClaren, who took over the reins earlier this year, has emphasized a possession-based style with a focus on midfield creativity, making Magee’s return particularly timely.

“I’ve always looked for a number 10; a creative player out of the box, somebody who can change games and I asked Merron [Gordon] and he recommended Tyreek [Magee]. I had a little look at him and I liked him. This boy has ability, skill, and can change a game and I said yeah, we’ll give him a chance. That’s what I aim to do,” McClaren shared.

With the window of opportunity now opened up for the midfielder, Magee’s focus is clear—perform well, seize the opportunity, and help the team achieve its goals.

“I’ve learned a lot over the past year about myself and about my game. I did a lot of self-searching and stuff where I was just thinking to myself, like, what I want from football and stuff like that, and I feel like it's been helping me so far. I’m in a good place right now, and I want to show that on the field, so I’m ready to give everything for the team,” Magee declared.

Another exciting prospect of Magee’s call-up is the fact that he could possibly get to grace the international stage alongside former Jamaica College teammate Norman Campbell.

“Yeah, it's something that doesn't really happen much, so I want to embrace it. We grew up in the same community as well, so I'm definitely looking forward to playing with him [Norman Campbell] representing the country,” he ended.

Montego Bay United continued their promising start to the Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Arnett Gardens in an entertaining encounter at the Montego Bay Stadium in Catherine Hall on Monday.

Captain Owayne Gordon was the hero of the night, scoring the decisive goal in the 40th minute to secure all three points for Rodolfo Zapata’s side. The win, their third of the campaign, moved Montego Bay United up to second on nine points, one point off leaders Cavalier on 10 points, while Arnett Gardens slipped to seventh on four points.

Zapata was visibly pleased with his team’s performance, lauding the effort and determination shown by the players throughout the match.

“I knew it was going to be a very exciting game; it was very interesting from a tactical aspect, and tactics are very important, but if you don’t have the technique, it won’t work. So I am very proud of my boys and the performance they put in," the Argentine tactician said.

“They (Arnett Gardens) are a good team so I have different tactical systems that I work with in games like these. We started with 3-3-3-1, and during the game I had to change, but my players responded to my coaching, and I am so proud of them, especially of that high-class finish,” he added.

It was a lively start by teams as they showed good attacking intent in end-to-end action, much to the delight of the sizeable crowd.

Both threw their weight in attack and tested their respective goalkeeper’s readiness in a few half chances in the opening half-hour.

However, Montego Bay United, led by Gordon, gradually gained the ascendancy, as they were more enterprising in the attacking third, stretching Arnett Gardens defence, which was slow to regroup.

The all-important goal by Gordon, his 77th in an outstanding JPL career, was the culmination of a well-executed build up that showcased Montego Bay United’s swift and effective transition play.

Gordon collected a pass on the break down the left channel and held his composure to delicately finish over the head of Asher Hutchinson in goal for Arnett Gardens to put Montego Bay United up at the break.

Montego Bay United remained in control at the restart and should have extended the lead on two occasions, but faulty execution proved their undoing.

The first came in the 48th when Gordon whipped in a weighted cross, but Lucas Lima Correa couldn't connect properly to get his header on target.

Nine minutes later, Tyrone Harrison danced his way through two defenders and fired on a cross for Shaneil Thomas, who steered the effort wide of the left upright. 

As the chances came far and few in between, Arnett Gardens had their best look at goal in 69th when Warner Brown found himself with space and time to set for a left-footed effort from deep inside the 18-yard box. However, the usually clinical attacker hit his shot wide of the right upright, and that effort basically summed up the “Junglists” night.

Head coach Xavier Gilbert acknowledged that they were found wanting for the most parts.

“To be honest, Mobay was committed. I don’t think we were committed as much, especially in the first half, and it is something that we spoke about because we can’t give away the ball and don’t have that urgency to win it back immediately. It has been haunting us for the last four or five games, but we are still trying to fix it.

“It is still a long season and we just have to be better at keeping the ball. Also, the end product just wasn’t there and it is just one of those games. I said it to Kimani [Arbouine] because he has been doing well but tonight just wasn’t his night,” Gilbert reasoned.

Matchweek Four Results

Molynes United 4, Chapelton Maroons 0

Humble Lion 1, Harbour View 1

Portmore United 2, Vere United 0

Tivoli Gardens 0, Waterhouse 1

Cavalier 4, Dunbeholden 1

Mount Pleasant 4, Racing United 0

Montego Bay United 1, Arnett Gardens 0

Tiffany Langley’s netball journey has been marked by years of dedication, disappointment, and unwavering perseverance.

So, as she prepares to represent Jamaica for the first time as part of the Sunshine Girls squad to the Fast5 Netball World Series in New Zealand, Langley views her inclusion as a hard-earned opportunity for redemption and a stepping stone toward becoming a staple in the senior setup.

Langley’s selection for the November 9-10 tournament comes as a welcome reward after years of near misses at the youth level. She has been on the fringes of the national programme since her early teens, as she trained diligently with both the Under-16 and Under-21 teams.

Yet, despite her efforts, she narrowly missed out on making the final cut for international tournaments—experiences that could have easily derailed a young athlete’s confidence. But for Langley, those setbacks only fueled her desire to push harder and prove herself worthy.

“This opportunity means everything to me. It’s something I’ve been working towards for years, and I guess I can say my hard work has now paid off because being a part of a national team to represent my country is a dream come true,” Langley shared.

“Missing out on the Under-16 and Under-21 squads at that point was tough, but I never gave up. So for this opportunity to come at this point in my career, it gives me the confidence that I was lacking before to keep pushing forward, and now I’m excited to see what the future holds for me,” she told SportsMax.Tv.

For Langley, her selection to the Sunshine Girls’ Fast5 squad—a variation of netball known for its fast-paced style and tactical intensity—marks a turning point in her career.

Though Fast5 is different from the traditional 7-a-side format, the 24-year-old believes the condensed format suits her skill set and will allow her to showcase her versatility on the court.

“It’s a different game in many ways, but it’s also an opportunity to test yourself under pressure. I’ve been working hard on my speed, agility, and decision-making, and I’m mentally and physically ready to give it my all,” Langley shared.

“Mentally, I reassured myself that I’m good enough to be a part of this team and capable enough to get the job done. Physically, I am working extremely hard to better my skills in training to ensure that I deliver when I am called upon,” she added.

Langley, who started her netball journey at Gaynstead High School before transitioning to GC Foster College, believes her story is one of perseverance and resilience, as she is of the view that many athletes, when faced with repeated setbacks, might have opted to hang up their boots. However, the bubbly player’s love for the sport and her dream of representing Jamaica at the highest level kept her motivated.

Now with the opportunity there for the taking, Langley’s goal is to make a strong impression during the Fast5 tournament to show selectors that she can be a valuable asset for the team in both short and long formats of the game.

If she can deliver on her promise, she hopes this will be the first of many senior appearances.

“I’m not just happy to be here; I’m determined to make an impact. This isn’t just about making my debut; it’s about establishing myself as a player for the future. I want to be a part of the senior team for years to come, so this is just the beginning. I want to use this chance to learn, grow, and cement my place in the squad,” Langley asserted.

While they might find the going tough in New Zealand, Langley, a wing-attack, who is set to play centre at the tournament, is confident that the Dalton Hinds and Nardia Hanson-coached team has enough talent to cause some problems.

“I rate our chances highly. I love the work everyone is putting in at training; I love the camaraderie among us, and I’m so excited to see what this competition has to offer, as I am sure we all want to keep improving to be consistent in making more Sunshine Girls teams,” Langley ended.

Portmore United finally broke their winless run in the 2024/25 Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) season when they edged Tivoli Gardens in a come-from-behind 2-1 scoreline at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex on Monday night.

The victory, secured by a late strike from substitute Javier Brown in the 89th minute, marked the St Catherine-based club’s first taste of success after three games, lifting the weight of early season pressure from their shoulders. 

Junior Grizzelle (45+1) also struck for Portmore United, after 19-year-old Nickalia Fuller gave Tivoli Gardens a 40th-minute lead.

With the win, Portmore United moved up the standings from 13th to 10th, giving their fans and coach Rudolph Austin reason to hope that a revival is on the cards.

“It was a really good performance by the team; they went out there and they executed what we planned throughout the week, so hats off to them. They showed a lot of character when they went down and came back and won the game so that was brilliant. The fight they showed is the Portmore United I know, work hard, play to the end, and win games.

“That is why we won seven championships, so that is what I want my players to always do; go out and express themselves. Even if you make a mistake, keep going. So hopefully this is the start of a successful run for us but one thing I can tell you is that I won’t let up,” Austin declared in a post-game interview.

Romeo Guthrie marshalled Portmore United's midfield.

The former Reggae Boy turned coach also heaped praise on former Arnett Garden stalwart Romeo Guthrie, whose performance—marked by two assists—reinforced the importance of the team’s creative spark.

But the night belonged to former Vere United captain Brown, the unlikely hero who ensured Portmore United ended with three precious points.

“When I used to play against Vere United, he [Brown] was always in our box, so I knew he had that in him, and he was hungry to deliver for us. But I can’t leave out Guthrie; I think he had a very good game... all the guys played well, but I think Guthrie was outstanding,” Austin added.

The match unfolded as a one-sided affair for the most part, as Portmore United dictated the pace and forced Tivoli Gardens back for long spells. In fact, they peppered Tivoli’s goal with 15 shots, 10 of which were on target, displaying a level of control and intent that had been missing in their earlier fixtures.

Grizzelle fired Portmore United’s first warning shot in the third minute that caught Tivoli Gardens’ goalkeeper Diego Haughton off his line, but the effort kissed the crossbar on its way out.

Five minutes later, Jahien Rose also pulled the trigger from a distance, but that shot was tipped over by Haughton diving full stretch.

Tivoli Gardens later settled and went close through Fuller, who drove into the 18-yard box and got off a left-footed effort that was kept out by Daniel Russell in goal for Portmore United.

However, Fuller, a former Excelsior High standout, broke the deadlock on his second attempt, as he released a delightful left-footed strike from a tight angle outside the 18-yard box that had Russell well beaten.

That was all the West Kingston team would get as they only mustered four shots, with Fuller’s efforts the only two on target.

Such was Portmore United’s dominance from that point on as Guthrie stamped his mark on the game. The industrious playmaker, who was at the heart of most of Portmore United’s attacking moves, provided the assist for the equaliser on the stroke of the interval.

He dispossessed a defender deep in Tivoli Gardens quarters and played off a pass for Grizzelle, whose tap in left Haughton rooted to the spot as they went to the break with the score levelled at 1-1.

Junior Grizzelle scored the opener.

But even with the scores level, the momentum never truly shifted away from Portmore after the interval. They pressed forward relentlessly in a sustained attacking spell that forced Tivoli to defend deep and absorb pressure.

Tedj Bryan should have put Portmore United ahead in the 47th when he picked up a poor clearance from Haughton, but his tame effort was kept out by the custodian, who stuck out the right leg. 

They thought they had the breakthrough in the 65th when Okelo Howard played a timely through pass into the final third for Tarick Ximines to finish, but the goal was called back for an offside.

Ximines was at it again in the 75th as he outmuscled a defender on his way towards goal. However, his final effort was denied by Haughton's outstretched right leg.

As the clock ticked down, it seemed the go-ahead goal would elude Portmore United, and they would have to settle for another frustrating draw.

Enter Brown, who replaced Ximines in the attack.

In the dying embers of the match, Guthrie once again turned provider, threading a clever pass into Brown’s path. With a burst of pace and a clinical finish, Brown drove a firm right-footer past the slightly advanced Haughton to send the Portmore bench and fans into frenzy.

Tivoli Gardens Head coach Jerome Waite acknowledged that his team needs to be sharper and more assertive as their defensive effort was found wanting, while their inability to match Portmore United’s intensity was glaring.

“We defeated ourselves because the two goals came from poor defensive errors and Portmore United capitalised on both of them. It is our second game, so we still have a lot of work to do, and at the same time they will have to learn and understand where the system of play is concerned,” Waite said.

Matchweek 3 Results

Harbour View 2, Molynes United 1

Vere United 1, Humble Lion 1

Waterhouse 0, Cavalier 2

Arnett Gardens 1, Racing United 1

Chapelton Maroons 0, Montego Bay United 1

Portmore United 2, Tivoli Gardens 1

Dunbeholden vs Mount Pleasant (Postponed)

Jockey Dane Dawkins is brimming with confidence and ready to showcase his improved form at Caymanas Park on Saturday, following a successful stint in Canada that saw him rack up 25 wins.

The former champion rider, known for his tenacity and skill in the saddle, started slowly at the North American track, but he eventually found his rhythm and returned with more victories under his belt than in his previous overseas campaign in 2019.

Dawkins, who competed primarily at Assiniboia Downs in Winnipeg, admitted that the transition was initially challenging. However, his determination to make a mark and improve on his past performances pushed him through the difficult period.

With every race, he adjusted to the nuances of the track and the competition, and by the end of the season there, Dawkins had established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His 25 wins were complemented by 24 second-place finishes and 28 third-place finishes from 169 mounts, amassing an impressive CAD$288,149 (about $33.5 million Jamaican) in earnings.

“It was a tough start because it took a while for me to get comfortable and get to know the horses, but once I got into my groove after my first two months, everything started to click. Winning 25 races this time around was a big deal for me because I only won seven the last time I was there. It shows I’m learning and improving and once I started winning races, the trainers saw my true potential and started giving me more rides,” Dawkins told SportsMax.Tv.

Dawkins’ performances in Canada weren’t just about accumulating wins, the experience also sharpened his skills. With the renewed confidence, he is eager to bring that momentum back to Jamaica, where he now hopes to continue his winning streak at Caymanas Park, as he has secured four rides on Saturday’s card and another six for Sunday.

“I’m excited to be back at Caymanas. Riding in Canada helped me fine-tune my techniques and decision-making, and I want to use that to get more wins here. The goal is to build on what I’ve achieved and show that I’m a better rider than before,” the soft-spoken rider noted.

But Dawkins isn’t just focused on immediate success. The talented jockey has his eyes set on a long-term goal—winning more Classic races to cement his legacy in the sport.

For Dawkins, these prestigious events, such as the Jamaica Derby, the Jamaica Oaks, the 1000 Guineas, 2000 Guineas, Jamaica Cup, Gold Cup and Mouttet Mile, are the pinnacle achievements for any Jamaican jockey, and he’s determined to consistently etch his name in the annals of the sport’s history.

With the season at Caymanas Park nearing its end, Dawkins return at this point in time will only allow him to challenge for the Gold Cup in October, the Jamaica Cup in November, and the lucrative Mouttet Mile in December.

“I want to consistently win those big races, the Classic races. That’s what every jockey targets in their career. Yes, I’ve won a few already, but you can’t get complacent at any time. You always have to keep pushing and putting in the work to continue getting those rides in the big races to make your mark in the sport,” he shared.

However, success on the track is only part of Dawkins’ motivation. A dedicated family man, he revealed that his greatest ambition is to ensure that his loved ones are well taken care of.

For him, the sacrifices he makes and the risks he takes are all in service of providing a better future for his family.

“At the end of the day, I ride to win and make a name for myself, but my family comes first. Every win, every achievement is for them. I just want to make my family proud and happy, and that’s what drives me to keep pushing myself and that’s what it’s all about,” Dawkins ended.

Arnett Gardens Head Coach Xavier Gilbert was left with a mixed bag of emotions following his team’s goalless draw against Haitian club Real Hope in their Group A Concacaf Caribbean Cup encounter.

While pleased with their usual attacking intent and defensive resilience, which earned them their first point of the tournament, Gilbert admitted that he would have liked to secure all three points in the heated affair at the National Stadium on Wednesday to keep their semi-final hopes alive.

The “Junglists” were more threatening in open play and felt they should have won the contest as they had a goal ruled out for offside, while a penalty call, which should have gone their way, was not given.

As such, the result left them rooted at the bottom of the group on a point, as Cavalier (six points), Real Hope (five points), Police FC (four points), and Mount Pleasant FA (three points) remain in contention for the top two spots to the semis.

With one game to come against Mount Pleasant on October 3, Gilbert is hoping they can secure a win to cap off what he described as a valuable experience for the team in the regional competition.

“Honestly, it’s a bit of a bittersweet feeling; I think it was a tough encounter, but I can fault the guys for trying. I’m happy that the team showed great effort and fight, but decision-making in the final third could have been better,” Gilbert told Sportsmax.TV.

“On the other hand, I thought we were just unlucky to not get the full points last night, especially in the way some calls went against us, but that's the way it is, sometimes we get them and sometimes we don't. We came into this game hoping to get the victory, but we were just a bit short in the final third,” he added.

Despite the shortfall, Gilbert highlighted the positives of the Caribbean Cup campaign and believes the team has gained crucial exposure and experience testing themselves against regional opponents. This, he said, will serve them well for the remainder of the Jamaica Premier League (JPL) season.

“We fight on nonetheless; we are happy for the exposure that we got at this level, and hopefully we can use this as a catalyst to do well in the local league and make it back here next season because these are the types of tournaments we need to be involved in more often,” he explained.

“Playing teams from across the Caribbean pushes us to raise our level and exposes the areas we need to improve. The intensity and quality are slightly different from what we face locally, and the players have to adapt quickly. It’s an experience we’ll definitely build on going forward,” he noted.

With the JPL season already in full swing and Arnett Gardens, Gilbert has already shifting his focus to ensuring that his team come out stronger for their next encounter against promoted Racing United on Sunday.

The CFU Club Shield winning coach believes the lessons learned in the Caribbean Cup can propel the team to a successful domestic season, which would, in turn, put them back in contention for another crack at the regional tournament next year.

Arnett Gardens currently sit second on the JPL standings on three points from their opening 3-0 win over Dunbeholden FC.

“We have to take what we’ve learned here (in the Caribbean Cup) and channel it into our JPL campaign. The goal now is to be consistent, play good football, and secure one of those top spots to qualify for the Caribbean Cup again. This tournament has given us a taste of what’s possible, and I’m confident we’ll be better equipped next time around.” Gilbert stated confidently.

The tactician is counting on his team’s mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents to continue growing and improving as they look to reclaim domestic glory. He also expressed gratitude to the club’s fans for their unwavering support throughout the tournament and promised that they would see a revitalized Arnett Gardens as the JPL season progresses.

“We’re going back to the drawing board with a renewed focus and determination,” he said.

“The fans deserve nothing but our best effort, and we’re committed to making sure we’re back in the Caribbean Cup next year and, more importantly, compete for titles,” Gilbert ended.

Reggae Girlz Head coach Hubert Busby says Concacaf’s move to expand the women’s football calendar represents a significant step forward for the development of the sport in the region, as the revised schedule will provide increased opportunities for competition, allowing national teams to play more matches throughout the year.

In an effort to build on the successful delivery of the inaugural Women’s Gold Cup, as well as the recently added Women’s Club Competition, which is currently ongoing, Concacaf is set to introduce additional competitions, some of which will serve as qualifiers for major tournaments between 2025 and 2029.

Tournaments will include a new qualifying tournament in 2025 that will serve as the preliminary round of the 2026 Concacaf Women’s Championship, which will serve as the qualification path to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. There will also be the introduction of an inaugural Concacaf Women’s Nations League in 2028 and a second edition of the Women’s Gold Cup.

Busby, who continues to push for greater international success with his Reggae Girlz, believes the additional fixtures will be crucial in improving the competitiveness and overall quality of not only his team but that of other Caribbean nations ahead of future tournaments, including the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

“This expanded calendar is a game changer. In order to improve, our players need regular, high-level competition, and this initiative by Concacaf allows us to play more frequently. It also provides an opportunity for us to assess the development of the team in a tournament situation on an ongoing basis,” Busby said.

“So kudos to Concacaf, they have done a good job of understanding the landscape and ever-changing times and being able to provide a platform for countries that sometimes can’t afford to schedule games in the windows to play. Also, providing a match calendar throughout the year is very important to kind of elevate arguably one of the best confederations in the world based on results, so it is great that we can look at this calendar and plan accordingly,” he told SportsMax.Tv.

The expanded calendar includes more consistent qualification pathways for major tournaments, with plans for more international friendlies and regional competitions. Busby sees this as an advantage, particularly for the Reggae Girlz, who have made history by qualifying for back-to-back FIFA Women’s World Cups in 2019 and 2023 and are now aiming for even greater achievements.

“We are no longer just participating—we’re competing on the world stage. So it is good to play more often in order to maintain and build on that momentum. Our players will benefit from being on the field more often, and that can only bode well for us going forward. Ultimately, this is about growth—not just for the Reggae Girlz, but for women’s football across the region,” Busby explained.

The upcoming friendlies against European and African powerhouses France and South Africa will ensure Busby’s Reggae Girlz end 2024 on a high heading into that busy calendar next year.

Busby reiterated that these games—scheduled for October 25 in France and November 29 and December 2 in Jamaica—will offer a valuable test for his squad and give younger players more chances to develop in high-pressure environments.

“The more we play, the better we become, and as I said before, these games represent a commitment of all and sundry to that growth. We have a very deep pool and we will have a good set of players to choose from,” he noted.

William Knibb registered win number four on the trot in Zone D of the Inter-secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/Wata daCosta Cup as they blanked Cedric Titus 3-0 in a lopsided Trelawny derby at the parish’s stadium on Saturday.

Joshua Walker (36th), Jaheem Brown (50th), and Seron Williams (68th) propelled Dewight Jeremiah’s side to another three points as they remain in pole position ahead of Spot Valley, who also made it four-in-four as they blanked Muschett High 3-0 in the curtain-raiser of the double-header.

Both William Knibb and Spot Valley are on maximum 12 points, but the former continues to lead the way by virtue of a superior goal difference. Cedric Titus sit third on six points, and Discovery Bay is fourth on three points, while Muschett and Holland are yet to get on the board.

Jeremiah praised the performance of his youthful squad, which continues to grow with every game.

“The average age of the team is 14.5, but I think we learned from our last game against Discovery Bay that we had to be more creative when teams sit deep. The first goal epitomises what we did in training; we wanted all five vertical zones to be occupied when we attacked, and we had that in terms of the link up play, but the commitment that the boys showed today (Saturday) is above everything that we did, and that resulted in the clean sheet,” the tactician shared.

“Seron Williams is our second-string goalkeeper that we converted into a striker, and I think him and Jaheem Brown are just hugely technical. Joshua Walker also has an immense work rate; I played him at right back last season, and I am just teaching him to understand positional play in the middle of the park, and he soaks up everything,” he added.

Though William Knibb dominated proceedings, it was Cedric Titus that started more spiritedly as captain Terron Eccleston went on a break in the 25^th minute and was taken out by a defender at the edge of the 18-yard box. However, the resulting freekick amounted to nothing.

Eccleston again threatened three minutes later as he found space deep inside William Knibb’s quarters for a right-footed effort that just rolled wide of the left upright.

Having heeded the warnings, William Knibb launched a few attacks of their own, the first coming in the 36th when Walker finished from close range after getting on the end of a decent through pass from Koran Henriques to break the deadlock.

William Knibb should have doubled the lead in the 41st when Cedric Titus’ custodian Anthony Riley failed to gather the ball cleanly, but Prince Bernard somehow failed to convert from point blank range.

Still, with a 1-0 lead in their favour at the break, William Knibb were not disheartened and maintained their momentum on the resumption. They eventually doubled the lead five minutes in courtesy of Brown’s ferocious right-footed freekick from just over 20 yards out that had Riley beaten all ends up.

Williams pushed the game beyond Cedric Titus’ reach when Walker placed the ball perfectly into his path for a firm right-footed drive that left the hapless Riley flat-footed.

William Knibb should have had a fourth in the 76th as Riley again spilled the ball. However, Williams effort came back off the crossbar.

Cedric Titus fought on as Eccleston was sent through on goal, but their hopes of pulling one back were dashed as Camoy Phillips, in goal for William Knibb, left his line well to avert the danger.

Wade Crawford, Cedric Titus’ head coach, felt his team was lacking in all departments.

“We started the game slow and I think the game got away from us midway through the first half. It boils down to inexperience and the youngsters are learning the game; we are not as deep as we were last year so we definitely will be getting better but we need to work a little harder on our finishing. So it’s a work in progress,” he stated.

Saturday’s Results

St James High 1, Cornwall College 2

Frome vs Rusea’s (Rained out)

Grange Hill 2, Little London 1

Spot Valley 3, Muschett High 0

William Knibb 3, Cedric Titus 0

Munro 1, STETHS 1

Belair 5, Manchester High 1

May Day 2, deCarteret College 1

Mile Gully 1, Holmwood 2

Central High 1, Clarendon College 0

Garvey Maceo 2, Old Harbour 3

Kemps Hill 2, Porus 0

McGrath 1, Dinthill 1

Ocho Rios 7, York Castle 0

Jamaica’s senior Reggae Girlz Head coach Hubert Busby reaffirmed his team’s commitment to continuously improve their quality as he welcomed the three crucial upcoming friendly encounters against France and South Africa to cap the year on a high.

In fact, Busby was quick to point out that the matches—away to 10th-ranked France at the Stade Auguste-Bonal on October 25, and at home against 50th-ranked South Africa on November 29 and December 2—are part of the broader plan to enhance the team’s competitiveness on the global stage. They also represent crucial stepping stones in the Reggae Girlz preparation for next year’s World Cup qualifiers.

“Playing against top-tier teams like France and South Africa is exactly the kind of fixtures we need to raise our game. It’s important that we continue to test ourselves against the best, not only to see where we stand but also to continue the growth we’ve worked so hard for over the past few years,” Busby told SportsMax.Tv.

“So, we are pleased that we will have these quality matches to close out the year heading into 2025. Obviously, France is a top 10 opponent and South Africa have been a perennial African champions and World. So to be able to play France in a very hostile environment will be difficult for us, but again, it’s a challenge that we welcome and look forward to standing up to,” he added.

The South Africa encounters will mark the first time players that paraded their skills at the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup in Australia will be playing on home soil since the Olympic qualifying fixture against Canada last September.

This, Busby believes, will serve as a confidence booster for the team after two 0-4 losses away to Brazil in June and what will be another tough task against France. Prior to the Brazil friendly, a fairly young and inexperienced Reggae Girlz team lost two away friendlies to Chile.

“It will be great to have the players back in Jamaica in front of the home crowd. It has been a long time since the team has been in Jamaica so we are really looking forward to those games and really looking forward to have all the supporters and fans out to cheer the team on and further lift their spirits because I know they are excited to perform at home,” Busby shared.

Reggae Girlz against France at the 2023 Women's World Cup.

For Busby, high-profile friendlies against Brazil, France, and South Africa, in particular, are testament to the progress made by the Reggae Girlz in becoming a formidable force in Concacaf.

As such, the upcoming games presents an opportunity to assess the squad's strengths and weaknesses, as well as tactics and player combinations that will benefit the team in the long run as the Girlz set their sights on bigger goals for 2025 and beyond.

“These games aren’t just about results; they’re about performance and progression. We have a clear vision of where we want to go, and games like these are crucial in refining our style of play, building team chemistry, and ensuring we’re ready to take on the challenges ahead, especially in the World Cup qualifiers,” Busby stated.

“We will look at our playing model and dissect each and every area of that model in terms of how we are in and out of possession and how we transition both offensively and defensively. So each and every window we will target an area that we want to focus on and that is something that as a staff we are looking at now and we will head into these matches with some key areas of focus as it leads into the World Cup qualifiers next year,” the tactician noted.

The 42nd-ranked Reggae Girlz have made significant strides on the international stage in recent years, qualifying for back-to-back World Cups in 2019 and 2023, and their ambition remains to continue that momentum.

The Girlz suffered two 0-4 losses in two away friendlies to Brazil in June.

Busby believes that consistent exposure to high-level competition will be pivotal in maintaining and elevating the team’s standards as they seek an historic third-consecutive World Cup appearance.

“The goal is always the same and that is for this team to qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. So everything we do now is about how we chart that path to ensure that the qualification objective is met. It is an ever-changing football landscape; teams continue to get better, so the challenge for us is to get better at a high level, and that is something that players, staff, the federation, and other stakeholders are committed to,” the former national goalkeeper declared.

Still, Busby acknowledged that the road ahead will be challenging, but he is confident in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.

“We’re not just looking at the here and now; we’re building for the future, and I have no doubt that this team has the quality, the dedication, and the heart to achieve great things We’re building a legacy, and these matches are a part of that journey,” Busby said.

Having shaken the first game jitters with a hard-fought 1-0 win over promoted Racing United, Waterhouse's Head coach, Marcel Gayle, is expecting his team to improve significantly throughout the Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) season.

In fact, Gayle pointed out that consistently securing clean sheets is high on the agenda for their title run this season as they are benchmarking their performance against last season’s campaign, where they lost to Mount Pleasant in the semi-finals.

Though they dominated proceedings for the most parts, Waterhouse did not have things their own way, as they survived a late surge from their St Catherine opponents to secure the win courtesy of Atapharoy Bygrave’s all-important 52nd-minute strike at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex on Monday.

In all honesty, Waterhouse should have won by a wider margin, but they failed to please where it mattered most—in the final third—as Bygrave squandered a number of chances, though Caryle Holmes came up big in goal for Racing United on a few of those occasions.

Still, Gayle took heart from his team’s performance, which he views as a solid platform to build on for the season, which will be contested over three rounds, back up from two rounds last season.

“We deserved to win the game; hats off to Racing United’s goalkeeper for keeping the scoreline to what it was, but nevertheless, I thought we played well. We bossed the game; we gave up a little in the middle of the park, but it’s a work in progress... it’s the first game, so now that the cobwebs are out the way, we know what we are about and will build from here,” Gayle said in a post-game interview.

“So it’s a positive start; it’s the first game, and we wanted everything to go right, which it didn't, but we see some areas that we can improve in and areas that we have improved on so far. As you can see, we got a clean sheet, and that is benchmark for us this season,” he added.

Waterhouse's Kemar Foster saves Rodave Murray's penalty.

Racing United started brightly with Rodave Murray firing the first warning shot, which interestingly was the only shot they got off in the first half.

This, as Waterhouse quickly found their rhythm and asserted their authority on the contest with fluent ball movements and some tidy build-ups—in patches—that unlocked Racing United’s defence on a number of occasions. However, the finishing touch eluded them.

Bygrave was at the centre of most of those chances, the best two of the lot coming in the latter stages of the first half. In the 40th, Bygrave applied a decent first touch from Leonardo Jibbison’s cross, but his effort was equally well-saved by Holmes.

The former Dunbeholden and Mount Pleasant striker was again in shooting range from Denardo Thomas’ pass in the 45+5, but his right-footer was again kept out by Holmes diving full stretch to his right to keep the score goalless at the break.

However, Waterhouse maintained the momentum on the resumption and inevitably broke the deadlock seven minutes in when Andre Smith's attempt was deflected into Bygrave's path and the striker made no mistake from close range on that occasion.

Racing United should have had their first top-flight goal in the 66th when Ranaldo Biggs played a delightful ball inside for Giovanni Cunningham, who was felled by Waterhouse's custodian Kemar Foster. However, Murray's tame effort was kept out by the custodian, who redeemed himself.

That was the start of a decent passage of play for Racing United, who found another opening in the 77th courtesy of Javaughn Cole, who couldn't keep his effort down.

In the 86th, substitute Diamond Clarke's freekick driven along the ground was kept out by Foster, who got down well to his left.

Two minutes later, Mikyle Williams drove a stinging right-footer that caught Foster going the wrong way, but the effort came back off the left upright.

Racing continued to probe for a share of the spoils, which they should have had, had Deandre Johnson kept his right-footed effort at close range down, with literally the final kick of the game.

Though disappointed with the outcome, Racing’s assistant coach Paul Walker took heart from his team’s display.

“I think we played well, but I think if we had approached the game better in the first half, we could have had a better result. So I am disappointed with the loss because we also need to put away our chances when we get them but we just have to go back to drawing board and hope for the best next game,” Walker noted.

Matchweek one results

Vere Phoenix United 1, Montego Bay United 4

Portmore United 0, Mount Pleasant 2

Arnett Gardens 3, Dunbeholden 0

Harbour View 1, Chapelton Maroons 2

Waterhouse 1, Racing United 0

Humble Lion vs Cavalier (postponed)

Tivoli Gardens vs Molynes United (postponed)

It was a triumphant return to top-flight football for Chapelton Maroons and new head coach O’Neil ‘Bigga’ Thompson as they clipped former champions Harbour View 2-1 in their opening Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League (JPL) encounter at the Anthony Spaulding Complex on Monday.

Javel Ellis (10th) and Nathaniel Howe (63rd) got the job done for the Clarendon-based team, which was relegated from the JPL two seasons ago. Andre Fagan (59th), pulled one back for Harbour View, who are now being guided by Jason ‘Buju’ Henry.

Thompson, who was an assistant at another Clarendon outfit, Humble Lion, expressed delight at his team’s positive start.

“Every team in the Premier League is prepared to win their first game. Sometimes it goes for you and sometimes it goes against you. So I feel extremely pleased to start off the season with three points. We will continue to work on the areas we want to improve on. But so far, I am satisfied with the performance of the team,” Thompson said in a post-game interview.

Chapelton, intent on giving a more competitive account of themselves this time around, were more purposeful in the early exchanges, as they applied pressure to Harbour View’s defensive line and were duly rewarded for their efforts.

This, as Ellis capitalise on a goalkeeping error by Harbour View’s Romario Palma with an easy finish from close range.

Seemingly content with their lead, Chapelton gradually took a defensive posture and absorbed pressure from Harbour View, who eventually got into their rhythm, but failed to make it count in the final third as the score remain unchanged at the break.

Like they did at the start, Chapelton were again more spirited on the resumption and created a few half chances, which amounted to nothing.

That allowed Harbour View back into the contest as Fagan expertly headed home from Tahair Lawrence’s cross to pull the ‘Stars of the East’ level.

However, Howe ensured the points went Chapelton’s way when he fired past Palma three minutes past the hour mark.

Try as they did, Harbour View were unable to find the elusive equaliser and, as such, were left to pick up the pieces heading into the second match week, something defender Romaine Brackenridge is confident they will do.

“We are a young unit. Despite the result, the guys came out and tried their best. So we have to improve on this going forward. It’s still early days. We have a long season ahead and we have players still to come in. So the Harbour View you saw today (Monday), you can expect better things going forward,” Brackenridge declared.

Glenmuir High extended their perfect start to the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/Wata daCosta Cup as they blanked neighbours Garvey Maceo 2-0 in a lopsided Zone I affair in May Pen, Clarendon, on Saturday.

Ricardo Binns’ third goal of the season in the 29th and Orel Miller’s seventh of the season in the 40th was enough to seal the three points, which kept Glenmuir atop the standings on maximum nine points.

The defeat, Garvey Maceo’s first of the season, saw them slip to third on six points as Foga Road (seven points) jumped to second after a 6-0 beating of Porus High.

Glenmuir’s Head coach Andrew Peart welcomed the win.

“I am pleased with the win and the maturity shown by the players. For most of them its three years so as they get older, you expect more of them and I thought they showed that. One of the key things for us was not to get the game stretched and I thought we did that well,” Peart said in a post-game interview.

“It is step by step where our title ambitions are concerned; for us, the main thing now is to get out of the group and then we go from there. Yes, we plan long term but we are working short term so its day by day for us right now,” he added.

It was expected to be a close contest between two of last season’s semi-finalists, but Glenmuir had other ideas and should have won by a wider margin.

The Champions Cup holders dominated proceedings from the start as they were enterprising in the attacking third and created numerous chances, though they struggled to apply the finishing touch.

It wasn’t until close to the half-hour mark that they inevitably broke the deadlock from a sustained attacking spell, when Binns headed into an empty net after a decent first touch kept the ball alive ahead of the advancing Garfield Tomlinson in goal for Garvey Maceo.

The lead was doubled 11 minutes later courtesy of Miller, who sidewined his way through four defenders before driving a firm left-footed effort past the hapless Tomlinson to make it 2-0 at the break.

Down, but not out, Garvey Maceo showed more purpose on the attacking front on the resumption and created a few half chances, which amounted to nothing.

From there, the contest offered very little to write home about as Glenmuir showed very little in attack, seemingly content with what they already had, while Garvey Maceo did little to trouble their opponents defensive line.

Garvey Maceo’s head coach Lester Hibbert believes indiscipline led to their demise.

“We gave them instructions to stay with their markers because Glenmuir was doing a lot of movements. When we started the game, we kept them behind the ball but we lost the discipline and conceded two goals, so we just have to brush ourselves off and come again for the next game on Wednesday,” Hibbert said.

Saturday’s results

Vere Technical 0, Kemps Hill 2

Glenmuir 2, Garvey Maceo 0

Foga Road 6, Porus 0

William Knibb 5, Holland 0

Maggotty High 1, Newell 0

Mannings 9, Godfrey Stewart 0

Alston 1, Troy 0

Herbert Morrison 3, St James 0

Anchovy 1, Rusea’s High 0

B.B Coke 1, Munro College 0

Lennon 0, Clarendon College 2

Irwin High 3, Green Pond High 3

Spot Valley 2, Cedric Titus 0

Port Antonio 2, Wycliffe Martin High 0

Grange Hill 1, Black River 2

Maldon 0, Cornwall College 1

Grenada’s javelin thrower Anderson Peters and Puerto Rico’s sprint hurdler Jasmine Camacho-Quinn were on song in their respective events, as they brought the curtains down on the season in champion fashion on day two of the Diamond League finals in Brussels on Saturday.

While Peters and Camacho-Quinn logged the only victories, it was another positive day all-round for Caribbean athletes, as Jamaica’s Shiann Salmon, Ackera Nugent, and Rajindra Campbell, as well as the Dominican Republic’s Alexander Ogando, all secured podium finishes to also end their seasons on a high.

Camacho-Quinn, the Paris Olympic Games bronze medallist, left rivals in her wake to win the women’s 100m hurdles in 12.38s. Dutchwoman Nadine Fisherman (12.54s) and Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent (12.55s) secured the other podium spots. Another Jamaican, Danielle Williams (12.62s), was fifth.

Peters, also a bronze medallist from the Paris Olympics, again demonstrated his rich vein of form with an opening throw of 87.87m that was not to be beaten. India’s Neeraj Chopra (87.86m) kept things interesting but had to settle for second, while Germany’s Julian Weber (85.97m) was third.

For Salmon (53.99s), a well-paced race proved rewarding as she stayed on for third in the Women’s 400m hurdles, even after stumbling over the final obstacle. The event was won by Dutchwoman Femke Bol (52.45s), who secured a third consecutive Diamond League title, while American Anna Cockrell was second in 53.71s.

The other Jamaicans, Janieve Russell (55.94s) and Andrenette Knight (56.70s), were seventh and eighth, respectively.

Brazil’s Alison dos Santos reigned supreme in the men’s 400m hurdles, as he outclassed the field to win in 47.93s. Qatar’s Abderrahman (48.20s) and Estonia’s Rasmus Magi (48.26s) were second and third, respectively.

Jamaican duo Roshawn Clarke (49.08s) and Malik James-King (49.37s) were fifth and sixth, respectively, in the men’s 400m hurdles.

Meanwhile, Ogando (19.97s) placed third in the men’s 200m, which was won by American Kenneth Bednarek in a brisk 19.67s. Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo (19.80s) was well-beaten into second.

Earlier, Campbell took bronze in the men’s shot put with a best throw of 21.95m. The event was won in fine style by Italy’s Leonardo Fabbri, who threw a meet record of 22.98m. American Ryan Crouser (22.79m) was second.

Elsewhere in the field, Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford struggled for rhythm in the men’s high jump and had to settle for fourth at 2.22m. Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi finished tops at 2.34m, with Ukraine’s Oleg Doroshchuk (2.31m) and South Korea’s Woo Sanghyeok (2.225m) taking second and third, respectively.