Bajans reach soccer semis in NY

BARBADOS have advanced to the semi-finals of the Caribbean/USA Cup, after a comprehensive 3-0 win over Guyana last Sunday at the Jefferson High School playing field, Brooklyn, New York.The Barbadian footballers and grabbed the lead with their first attack. Good link-up play on the right between Jamal Chandler and the in-form Ricky Barnes resulted in a low, accurate cross from Barnes into the path of an advancing Sean King, who clinically finished from just inside the penalty area.Guyana were chasing shadows throughout the first half, as Barbados dominated possession and carved out many chances.Superb passing Inspired by the artistry of midfielder Malcolm “Buju” Marshall, the eventual Man Of The Match, their passing and movement were superb on a rather wet and difficult surface after heavy afternoon showers.The score was still 1-0 at the interval but Barbados were unfortunate not to have a larger lead. They made one substitution at the break, introducing Maradonna Lavine for the injured Barnes.The switch had an almost immediate effect, as Marshall released Lavine behind the Guyanese defence but he fired his one-time effort wide.Barbados secured their cushion midway into the second half. Again, they penetrated the Guyanese left side with Chandler, who linked up with Lavine, playing a delightful ball down the line to Marshall who whipped in a cross. This was met precisely by a technical finish from Notre Dame midfielder Donovan Lavine, sending the large Bajan crowd into a frenzy.More pressureQualification was virtually guaranteed at this point but Barbados applied more pressure and pushed their opponents way back into their own half, with another goal seemingly on the thoughts of both players and supporters.  Lavine delivered the much anticipated third goal. Marshall played a delightful ball behind the backline and Lavine outsprinted his marker, rounded the goalkeeper and easily slotted home into an open net to complete a fantastic performance by the Bajans.Barbados will now oppose long-time rivals Jamaica on Sunday at 6 p.m. in a contest between two of the favourites which is expected to be lively.