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Dunn not satisfied with first-leg performance

Published:Wednesday | April 24, 2024 | 12:13 AMGregory Bryce/Staff Reporter
Tivoli Gardens leading marksman, Justin Dunn
Tivoli Gardens leading marksman, Justin Dunn

TIVOLI GARDENS forward and the Wray & Nephew-sponsored Jamaica Premier League (JPL) leading goalscorer, Justin Dunn, said he was not satisfied with his performance in the first leg of the competition’s quarterfinals play-off against Waterhouse FC on Monday.

Tivoli had to come from behind to leave with a 1-1 draw after Javane Bryan gave Waterhouse the lead just before half-time from the penalty spot.

It was substitute Lennox Russell who turned hero for the West Kingston outfit when he pulled his team level in the second half.

After the match, Dunn said he felt he should have been more decisive in front of goal.

“It was never a good performance,” he said.

“I think I was not really getting the ball to my feet as much as I’d wanted because when I get the ball to my feet, I can create a lot of things. I think I wasn’t getting as much help from my players to really help us to go forward.”

Tivoli played an inspired second half as they sought the equalising goal and Dunn said despite the chances created, the team failed to capitalise.

He said Tivoli will need to be more clinical in front of goal for the second leg if they are to advance to the semifinals.

“I think we should have capitalised on three to four chances but luckily we got one and it ended 1-1. In the next leg, we’ll come better and stronger against them.”

Dunn leads the goalscoring charts with 16 goals to his name, but is only one goal ahead of rival Bryan who increased his tally to 15 following his penalty in the first leg.

Dunn said he is not focused on the golden boot race. He explained his eyes are on getting Tivoli into the semifinals and achieving his personal target of 20 goals for the season.

“I’m not really focused on anyone else,” he said.

“I’m focused on taking it one game at a time and trying to execute my game. I’m not really focusing on who is behind me or anything like that. I just want to bring Tivoli to the semifinals and beyond that, we can go all the way.

“I think in the second leg, I have one or two goals in me. The more I score, then the more I feel I can get the 20 goals this season.”

Tivoli will return to action on April 29 for the second leg against Waterhouse at Sabina Park.