In a remarkable turnaround performance, Saint Lucia’s Under-20 men’s football team claimed a decisive 3-0 victory against Dominica in their CONCACAF qualifying match on Friday, February 27th. The Group C encounter, held at Complejo Deportivo FCRF-Plycem in San Rafael de Alajuela, Costa Rica, showcased the team’s resilience following their earlier defeat to Antigua & Barbuda.
Captain Eymani Butcher emerged as the standout performer, netting two crucial goals that propelled the young Piton Boyz to third position within the five-team group. The technical staff implemented strategic changes to the starting lineup, with A’dee Germe replacing Tyrell Vidal as goalkeeper and Dervaj Edward taking the forward position instead of Messiah Pinel.
The scoring opened in the 10th minute when Butcher capitalized on a perfectly executed play. Alfred Hippolyte’s long clearance found Kevin Blackstock, who demonstrated impressive physicality to overcome three Dominican defenders before delivering a precise cross to Butcher. The Soufrierian midfielder calmly converted from just outside the six-yard box, establishing an early lead.
The match maintained its 1-0 scoreline through halftime. Early in the second period, Blackstock was substituted by Tashawn Walter in a tactical move that immediately paid dividends. Moments after the change, Edward’s ambitious attempt from 25 yards resulted in a handball violation by a Dominican defender. Butcher stepped up to the penalty spot and delivered a powerful low shot to the goalkeeper’s right, doubling Saint Lucia’s advantage.
Butcher nearly completed a hat-trick in the 70th minute with a powerful strike from 22 yards. While the goalkeeper managed to parry the attempt, substitute Edrick Popo demonstrated exceptional awareness by immediately pouncing on the rebound and skillfully nutmegging the keeper to secure the final 3-0 margin.
The victory positions Saint Lucia with three points from two matches, trailing group leaders Antigua & Barbuda who maintain a perfect record from two games. The Dominican Republic follows with three points from their single fixture. Saint Lucia faces a critical challenge against the Dominican Republic on Sunday, March 1st, where an upset victory could dramatically reshape the group dynamics before their final match against the British Virgin Islands on March 3rd.