U17 Reggae Girlz look to build on Aruba win

Reggae Girlz under-17 coach Marlon Hilton says getting their first win of the Concacaf Women's U-17 World Cup Qualifiers, in Aruba, on Wednesday, will give the team confidence as they continue their hunt for a place at the FIFA Women's U-17 World Cup in Morocco this year.

Jamaica defeated host Aruba 2-0 to register their first win after two games, and moved to second in the group.

The young Girlz got goals from Riquanna Richards (46th) and Elizabeth Miller (63rd) to climb to four points, two less than group leaders Honduras, who smashed St Vincent and the Grenadines 15-0, to record their second victory in as many games.

"It feels good to get that first win," Hilton told STAR Sports. "It means a lot for the players because it rewards their hard work and belief.

"At this stage of the competition it gives us confidence but more importantly it reinforces that our preparation and discipline are paying off."

ENCOURAGEMENT

Although pleased with their overall application, Milton said there are things to improve on.

"We take encouragement from the team's discipline, work rate, and togetherness. The players followed the game plan well and showed maturity, but we also know there are still areas where we can improve," he commented.

The young Reggae Girlz controlled much of the first half and had some good efforts on goal, but nothing to really bother the Aruba custodian.

Richards had the best opportunity of the first half, but her lob over the advancing goalkeeper fell wide of the target.

One minute into the second period, Richards broke the deadlock after showing good control and composure in the area, before poking home from 12 yards.

The Jamaicans continued to have the upper hand and just past the hour mark Miller was on hand to stab home a loose ball from close-range, that came back off the crossbar.

HELD FIRM

Despite a valiant effort from the hosts to get a goal, the Girlz held firm and saw out the match for a sound victory.

Jamaica's U17 Girlz face St Vincent and the Grenadines in their next match on Thursday at the Stadion Guillermo Prospero Trinidad at 2 p.m. and Milton expects another solid display.

"Our expectation is to deliver another focused and disciplined performance. We respect St Vincent and our aim is to build on this (Aruba) result, maintain our standards and continue to grow as a team," he said.

livingston.scott@gleanerjm.com