Montego Bay United lead Med Forest in Popeye's Challenge Cup match at Drax Hall

Montego Bay United carried a 1-0 advantage into the break against Med Forest in their third-round Popeye's Challenge Cup fixture at Drax Hall Sports Complex in St. Ann on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.

The tie brought Premier League opposition into the competition, with Montego Bay United facing a Med Forest side that had already won twice to reach the round. Before kick-off, Med Forest coach Lich Sims said his team had no pressure against the Premier League's fourth-place finishers, while Montego Bay coach Xavier Gilbert said his players wanted to respond after recent disappointment.

Med Forest, who had eliminated Humble Lion at St. Elizabeth Technical High School through Jeffrey Robinson's brace, again showed they could trouble higher-ranked opposition. Robinson and DeAndre Walker were central to their best attacking moments, and a headed effort from a set play forced Montego Bay goalkeeper Marco Thompson into a save.

Montego Bay still produced the clearer openings. DeAndre Brown missed two good chances, while Brian Brown, Kimmani Arbone and Timar Lewis all tested or threatened Med Forest goalkeeper Damen Hyatt. The breakthrough came late in the first half when Deo McKenzie struck with the outside of his left boot, curling the ball beyond Hyatt and into the top corner.

At halftime, Montego Bay led 1-0 after nine shots, four on target, while Med Forest had two attempts. Each side had one corner and one yellow card. Montego Bay introduced Carllando Morris for Arbone at the interval.

Elsewhere in the Popeye's Challenge Cup, Jamaica Defence Force FC defeated Cavalier 1-0 at Stadium East. Arnett Gardens beat Roaring River 3-1, with Giovani Taylor scoring twice and Deshawn Henry adding the third, while Courtney Williams got Roaring River's goal. Phoenix Chapelton beat Reno 3-1, and Molynes United edged Saka Club Brownstone 2-1.