Defending champions Cavalier finally opened their account in the 2025 Wray and Nephew Jamaica Premier League last evening, edging Arnett Gardens 3-2 in an entertaining clash at Sabina Park.
Arnett struck first through Rushike Kelson in the 9th minute, but Cavalier responded strongly. Jamoy Dennis brought the champions level in the 20th minute before Denzil McKenzie turned the contest in their favour with a quick-fire brace, scoring in the 38th and 42nd minutes.
Despite a 68th-minute own goal from Jeovanni Laing that gave Arnett a lifeline, the Rudolph Speid-coached side held firm to secure their first victory of the campaign. The win lifts Cavalier to fifth place on four points, behind Portmore United on goal difference. Portmore drew with Tivoli Gardens on Sunday, while Montego Bay United joined them on four points after a 3-1 home win against newly promoted Treasure Beach at Catherine Hall on Monday.
In that match, Jourdane Fletcher proved the difference for Montego Bay, striking late in the 89th and 93rd minutes after Jahmarie Clarke’s 13th-minute opener.
The evening’s double-header at Catherine Hall also saw last year’s beaten finalist Mount Pleasant held to a 1-1 draw by Molynes United. Shaquille Bradshaw gave Mount Pleasant the lead in the 52nd minute with his second goal of the season, but Marlon Pennicooke equalised just five minutes later to secure a share of the spoils for Molynes.
After two rounds of action, Racing United lead the table on goal difference over Chapelton Maroons, with both teams perfect on six points.
