MoBay United's Owayne Gordon to miss RSPL final

Owayne Gordon performed the Moses act of leading his team to the promised land of the Red Stripe Premier League (RSPL) final but, like the biblical character, he will not set foot in it this year, at least.

Gordon, the 24-year-old attacker and a shoo-in for this season's golden boot after a haul of 20 goals, including one in the first-leg semi-final, left the island yesterday morning to take up a contract with United States Soccer League team INDY11.

The former Anchovy High School player, who had a stint with Arnett Gardens in the RSPL, was Montego Bay United's most consistent player this season. While not scoring in Sunday night's 2-2 second leg semi-final draw, he played a major part over the two legs and scored the first to give them a 2-1 win in Montego Bay. This is despite knowing that he would not be around to physically lift the cup if they should win.

"I told my team from minute one of the semi-final that I am going to be the one who puts you guys in the final, so I want when I get there, I hear good things," Gordon said of his mindset going into his final two games of the season for Montego Bay United.

Despite his psychological preparation, Gordon confessed that it was still hard not being part of the big occasion.

"It is bittersweet. I am definitely sad about it because after playing so well throughout the tournament, not playing a part in the final is a bit hard. It really means a lot, but I will not be here in physical presence, but my spirit will be here.

"On the other hand, it is a big plus for me and my team, as I am moving on to a bigger stage. It is good for my team, too, as it shows the work that we are putting in that someone recognises that and has given me the chance to play in a different environment. Honestly, I am very pleased about that," explained Gordon, who said he made a pledge last season to climb to the top.

Having had his first professional break outside the country, the St James resident said his approach will be the same.

"This opportunity is a big thing for me because it is my first signing to a club outside of Jamaica. My plan is to go there and do as well as I have done here in our Premier League, go there and score some goals.

"I went to Vietnam once and it was OK. I did not play for the club. I just went on a trial, but didn't get a contract. I have a contract now to show what I am really made of, so I will go out there and do my best," he promised.