Arnett Gardens snap winless streak

Jermaine Lannaman, Gleaner Writer

Arnett Garden's supporters were able to breath a sigh of relief on Sunday as thanks to goals from central midfielder Rohan Reid and flank midfielder Dennis McKinley they were able to get the better of Sporting Central Academy 2-0 at the Anthony Spaulding Sports Complex.

The 'Junglists', as they are commonly called, went into the clash having gone six games without a win, but are now comfortably away from the danger of the relegation zone following the result. It also means that the Paul 'Tegat' Davis - coached Arnett Gardens team have now positioned themselves to make a run for a spot in the league's top six.

"It's been a while we haven't beaten this team, so its good we got rid of the jinx," said Davis.

"I was pleased with the energy of the team today. I have been having a problem with the players playing coward and being afraid to express their skills, however, today was a different situation," he explained.

Arnett Gardens dominated the game for large periods but had to wait until the 44th minute to take the lead when Reid, roaming loose at the top of the penalty area, latched on to a stray ball and grounded his shot through a host of defenders and past an otherwise outstanding, Andre Blake, in goal.

Second goal

Seemingly buoyed by their first half finish, Arnett then upped the tempo even more after the restart, and thanks to McKinley increased their advantage in the 55th minute.

A goal that was literally identical in finish to that of the first, McKinley was left unmarked atop of the area, and with a pool of defenders in front of him, let loose a low shot, which found its way past the outstretched arms of Blake.

Sporting, however, were in no mood to give up, and in a bid to salvage something from the game, introduced former national Under-20 standout, Keith Kelly, in the game with 25 minutes remaining.

The diminutive midfielder, who was returning to competitive football after several seasons of absence, looked good on and off the ball with a number of deft touches, pass and dribbles, but in the end it was not enough for the men from Clarendon.

"It's not the result we wanted, but I thought we played well. We were without six of our regular starters due to injuries and suspensions, and I thought that those who were on parade tried to equip themselves," said Sporting's coach, Donovan Dukie.

"We will just have to look to our next game where we will be looking to bounce back."

Arnett with the result moved to 35 points, two behind Sporting, who lie sixth in the 12-team standings.