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MoBay United’s Zapata happy with playoff-like performance
January 31, 2025
MONTEGO BAY United (MBU) head coach Rodolfo Zapata says that Wednesday night's victory felt like how a playoff game should be played and the team is headed in the right direction in the Jamaica Premier League (JPL).
The MoBay team had a dominant 3-1 victory at home against sixth-place Waterhouse FC and remained second with 44 points.
Mount Pleasant are on top of the table with 49 points, while Waterhouse are tied with Cavalier SC on 33.
"This game can be in a playoff and we did like it should be. We had ball control, effective use of the ball and aggressive and hard work when we didn't have possession. We created so many opportunities and I think we are headed in the right direction," Zapata said after his team gained three points.
Zapata acknowledged the supporters who have stuck with the team since day one and hopes to continue making them proud.
"I want to dedicate these three points to our supporters. It was a test match for us because this is a playoff game. As I said, big clubs should entertain and also to get good results."
In a well attended match, MBU took the lead in the 31st minute courtesy of Shaniel Thomas from the penalty spot. Jean Claudio Ferreira showed that there is no place like home, marking his return with a header in the 44th minute to double the lead.
Ferrera had left MoBay United for St Ann's Mount Pleasant.
In the second half, both teams were evenly matched. However, MoBay United pushed Waterhouse with several attacks and in the 71st minute, Johann 'Chip Chop' Weatherly hammered a goal from outside the 18-yard box, making the score 3-0.
However, Waterhouse started their fightback with more composure and added to the scoresheet with a goal in the 78th minute, when Mario Simms scored.
Marcel Gayle, Waterhouse FC's head coach, said despite Wednesday's defeat the team showed courage and determination.
"We were on the road and we know MBU are consistent in terms of where they are on the table. The turning point is when we conceded the goal and we dropped our heads," Gayle observed. "We displayed discipline and I thought we were good for most parts of it.
"In the second half I think we came out fighting, hence we got that elusive goal," Gayle said.
With the transfer window open, Gayle said the team brought in players to help boost their play.
"Fortunately, we brought in some young players and other players but we don't get to the roster yet. Hopefully, the next game we can see those players. Our focus now is on recovery and our opponent, Molynes United FC.
"I find no excuses; we have to learn from these moments and go back to the drawing board and fix it going forward," Gayle said.
