Unity is key for title-chasing Boyz, says Barnes — CONCACAF Gold Cup

Garath McCleary and Michael Hector are on the verge of history after they helped Jamaica into the semi-finals of the Golf Cup with a 1-0 win against Haiti last night.

This holds a lot of weight as the victor of the first match is scheduled to meet the victor of this battle in four days.

Jamaica forward Giles Barnes, left, celebrates his goal with Adrian…

The Haitians did their best to return fire during the next quarter hour or so, yet failed to equalize.

The Stars and Stripes would add a fourth before half-time when Omar Gonzalez got on the end of a knocked down corner kick.

As the French-speaking Caribbean team couldn’t find a way through, they opted for a lot of shots from outside the box in the second half, none of which threatened the Jamaica goal.

Dempsey’s penalty kick was awarded when Angel Horta pulled on Johannsson’s jersey in the penalty area.

Now 32, Dempsey said he does not take home that many mementoes.

In the first few minutes of the game, both Haiti and Jamaica had some nice attacking spells, but it was Jamaica who took advantage of that attacking chance. Whereas, Los Liones del Caribe drop out after a disappointing tournament that still saw them progress to this stage; the experience will serve them well as they continued to build the sport in their nation. And the Haitians kept the pressure on in the second half, but could not crack Jamaica’s defense.

Haiti would look to respond quickly. In the 13th minute, forward Duckens Nazon lined up a 20-yard blast which Jamaica ‘keeper Ryan Thompson parried away from danger.

Jamaica were not without their chances as striker Dawkins saw his effort flash wide of the post just past the half-hour mark.

Les Grenadiers would have one final attempt to level before the half-time whistle when Jean Alexandre released a vicious, swerving right-footer from distance, but it skimmed just over the bar.

Needing a win to secure second place, Haiti got their first victory of the competition against Honduras. Austin went straight for the goal and took a shot, but Placide made the save before Austin sent the rebound well over.

Placide also came up big in the 83th minute, denying Barnes from a tough angle on the right side.