The Golden Jaguars were unsuccessful in qualifying for the second round of the CFU Caribbean Cup, going down to host nation St. Kitts and Nevis (SKN) 2-0 on Sunday in their final group fixture at Warner Park Sporting Complex.
Needing a win to keep their hopes alive of progressing to the next round, Guyana surrendered second half goals to Zeph Thomas and Atiba Harris in the 55th and 60th minutes respectively to be dumped out of the event.
With the win, SKN will finish as the group winners with seven points and a goal difference of +7 while St. Lucia will finish in the second position with as many points but a goal difference of +4.
The Golden Jaguars for their disappointing showing will finish in the third position with one point and a goal difference of -4. Dominica completes the group in the cellar position with one point and a goal difference of -6.
The Dominican Republic will qualify for the second round of the event as the best third placed team amongst the respective groups with three points and a goal difference of +8. The Golden Jaguars in this section finished in the cellar position.
Ranked currently 153rd by FIFA, Guyana almost surrendered the lead in the cagey opening half as a Devaughn Elliot 42nd minute freekick rattled the woodwork, leaving custodian Oswald Cornette flat footed and with no chance.
However the home side would not be denied as Thomas broke the deadlock, unleashing a powerful 35 yard screamer that sailed beyond the reach of Cornette in the back of the goal, sending the large home support into celebrations.
The 159th ranked FIFA unit would not have to wait long to increase their lead as wide-man Harris of MLS outfit San Jose Earthquakes netted, clinically finishing his effort to the back of the net after receiving a well placed left sided ball from Jason St. Juste to seal the win.
Final Group-6 standings
Team Games Wins Draws Losses GS GA GD Pts.
Saint Kitts and Nevis 3 2 1 0 7 0 +7 7
Saint Lucia 3 2 1 0 4 1 +3 7
Guyana 3 0 1 2 0 4 -4 1
Dominica 3 0 1 2 1 7 -6 1
Final Ranking of Third Placed Teams
Team Games Wins Draws Losses GS GA GD Pts.
Dominican Republic 3 1 0 2 11 3 +8 3
Bonaire 3 1 0 2 4 12 -8 3
Puerto Rico 3 0 2 1 5 6 -1 2
Guyana 3 0 1 2 0 4 -4 1
