SKN, SXM COMPETE IN CLOSE NATIONS LEAGUE AFFAIR

Sint Maarten edged Saint Kitts and Nevis, 1-0, at the SKNFA Technical Center in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis. Kalonji Clarke had a good look at goal in the 10’ but Sint Maarten goalkeeper Tyrell Richardson was there to make the capture.

Ilounga Pata scored the lone goal in the 32’ by striking from the right side of the box across to the left corner of the goal. Gerwin Lake tried to extend the lead in the 48’ as the visitors started the second half with eyes to secure the victory. Lake was on target again in the 65’, this time from outside the box, as the Sint Maarten attack continued to generate chances over the home side.

Andre Burley had a shot from distance in the 67’ in what was the best look of the night for Saint Kitts and Nevis, but Richardson was there with the save. Oliver Hobgood then made a crucial strip inside the penalty area in the 71’ to deny a Saint Kitts and Nevis attack. Richardson made another big stop in the 90+4’ on an acrobatic attempt from Harry Panayiotou. Richardson closed the night with his first clean sheet in League B, as Sint Maarten came away with its first three points since gaining promotion from League C.