Jamaica clinch tense victory against New Caledonia in confederation playoff clash

This marked the initial head to head meeting between the two countries, though it could well be their most significant fixture to date. It kicked off positively for Jamaica when their attacking defender Richard King bent a shot from the left edge of the box in the 14th minute just missing the far upright.

Soon afterwards the Reggae Boyz were rejoicing their first goal of the match. New Caledonia keeper Rocky Nyikeine would prefer to forget the moment when he failed to grasp Ronaldo Websters firmly hit low free kick enabling Bailey Cadamarteri to smash in the loose ball emphatically with 18 minutes played.

That advantage was almost erased just past the half hour. With a prime opportunity to level before the break Georges Gope Fenepej faced Andre Blake in a one on one situation.

Strangely rather than advancing the ball closer to the net the forward tried to loft it over Jamaicas skipper which backfired terribly as it dropped right into the shot stoppers hands.

Given that all but one of Jamaicas last seven games featured under two point five goals each chance needed converting. Yet it seemed an unattended Karoy Anderson missed the point by slicing his side footed attempt from outside the area wide of the mark.

The Jamaicans pressed on in the 66th minute but only Nyikeines advancing presence stopped Webster from adding his goal. Even with Leon Bailey coming on the Reggae Boyz did not test Nyikeine again until the final whistle.

Still those connected to the Jamaica setup should rest easy knowing how near they are to this years World Cup.

Jamaicas sixth success in their past nine outings including draws and defeats in official and friendly matches hands Rudolph Speids team a strong shot at reaching just their second ever World Cup after their only prior trip to France 98. For New Caledonia their dream of a first appearance at FIFAs flagship event remains unfulfilled.