GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands -- In a critical League C Group A match in George Town, the Cayman Islands did just enough to edge out Saint Martin 1-0 at the Truman Bodden Sports Complex.
The first half didn’t see many chances as the two sides remained cagey throughout. The Turtles had trouble stringing their passes together between a tight Saint Martin defense, and the visitors held the bulk of the possession (63%) in the opening period.
After a hectic sequence that saw Michael Martin weave through the Saint Martin back line only to be fouled by goalkeeper Ulrick Luperon, the Cayman Islands were awarded a penalty kick.
With Martin getting treatment on the sidelines, Jonah Ebanks stepped up to take the penalty and buried it home in the 75th minute to give the home side the lead.
Wilfried Dalmat’s sending off in the 82nd minute allowed the hosts some breathing room as they frantically fought off the Saint Martin attacks.
The Turtles held on the secure the victory and a crucial three points that see them keep pace with Group A leaders Barbados. Saint Martin drop to six points back with two games to play, and it’s now more or less a two-horse race for the Group A title.