Aaron Lawrence remembers France 1998

Former national goalkeeper Aaron Lawrence, who was between the sticks in Jamaica's historic 2-1 win over Japan in the France 1998 World Cup, recently reflected on his favourite moment in football with The WESTERN STAR.

"My favourite moment is when we beat Japan. Especially given that the team played well and I could contribute to giving Jamaica the first win at the World Cup," said Lawrence

Jamaica beat Japan 2-1 on June 26, 1998 in their final group fixture of the tournament. Theodore Whitmore scored in the 39 and 54 minutes for Jamaica.

Lawrence said that in addition to the experience of playing in the game that Jamaica won, the atmosphere in France was something he will never forget.

"What was also great for me was to see the fans with the flag of Jamaica flying high in France. Even on the road, the community where we were, to see the people embrace us as one of their own was good."

When asked about this year's tournament, Lawrence who was the second choice keeper to Warren Barrett during the 1998 World Cup, said he likes the fact that the games are not predictable.

"I think it is a good World Cup. None of the favourites have been dominating and running away with all the points," said Lawrence.

WORLD CUP CHANCES

Lawrence, who is also the national Under-15 coach, said the Reggae Boyz have a chance of making it to Qatar 2022.

"We just have to believe and continue to work at it. I think coach Tapa [Theodore Whitmore], the technical director Mr [Wendell] Downswell and the president [Michael Ricketts ] have put a machinery in place. Everything is in motion because even right now, there are players in training," said Lawrence is also the coach of Sandal South Coast FC.