Bermuda Break Sint Maarten Resistance to Secure Vital Victory
IslandStats.com
Bermuda 2 Sint Maarten 0
Bermuda have ignited their regional qualifying campaign with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Sint Maarten at the Costa Rican Football Federation Field in Alajuela. Following a high-scoring opening draw against Trinidad and Tobago, the young Gombey Warriors displayed a more clinical defensive edge to secure three points and move into a strong position in Group E.
Bermuda’s Starting Line-Up: - Daniel Powell, Nayan Grant, Emeer Peets, Logan Jimenez, Khari Shareef, Jace Donawa, Xahvi DeRoza, Michari Tear-De Leon, Malachai Belboda, Kalen Brunson - Substitutes - Curtis Jackson, David martin, Dakari Smith-Davis, D’ari Coddington, Blayz Borgesson, Kennahz Fray, James Morrison, Qur’an Raynor, Isai Gibbons, Daqaio Stewart
The encounter began as a tactical stalemate, with both sides struggling to find a breakthrough during a goalless first half. Bermuda, led by a backline featuring Daniel Powell and Logan Jimenez, remained disciplined against a Sint Maarten side playing their third match of the competition. Despite the early deadlock, Bermuda’s midfield quartet of Jace Donawa, Xahvi DeRoza, Michari Tear-De Leon, and Malachai Belboda began to dictate the tempo as the match progressed into the second period.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute courtesy of a well-executed set-piece. Donawa, who had been a creative spark throughout the afternoon, delivered a pinpoint free kick into the heart of the penalty area. DeRoza read the flight of the ball perfectly, ghosting past his marker to turn the ball home and hand Bermuda a deserved 1–0 lead.
Sint Maarten pushed forward in the closing stages in search of an equaliser, but Bermuda’s bench provided the necessary fresh legs to see out the contest. The victory was made safe in the first minute of stoppage time following a rapid counter-attack. Kalen Brunson unleashed a powerful strike that the Sint Maarten goalkeeper could only parry into the danger zone. Substitute Kennahz Fray was the quickest to react, poaching the rebound to double the advantage and spark celebrations on the Bermudian bench.
The result marks a significant step forward for the squad as they continue their journey in Costa Rica, with the focus now shifting toward their upcoming fixtures as they aim to secure the top spot in the group.
