Like father, like son

Young Porter rescues Boys’ Town in RSPL feature

WESTERN BUREAU: FOR MATCH-WINNER Raheem ‘Yaya’ Porter, son of Boy’s Town’s long-standing goalkeeper Kirk Porter, scoring for the ‘Red Brigade’ on his Red Stripe Premier League debut was the realisation of a dream held by both himself and his father.

Porter’s goal powered Boys’ Town to a 1-0 win over Montego Bay United inside the Montego Bay Sports Complex on Monday night in what is considered a considerable early-season surprise.

Boys’ Town were given the opportunity to take the lead in the 27th minute with a penalty, but Rafiek Thomas’ effort came slamming off the crossbar, with the hosts losing a player to a red card in the process.

Porter would, however, prove the saviour for Boys’ Town latching onto a 77thminute Xavian Virgo’s cross with a brilliant header.

The beaming young player shared that he felt good to actually be able to give back to the club he grew up watching his father play for and always dreamt of representing at the senior level himself.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

“It’s a brand new start for me. I’m just looking to the future. I’m glad the coach believed in me to even start, so this is the first step of a million miles,” Porter said. “My father has always encouraged me to play football. I’ve always dreamt of playing for Boys’ Town’s senior team because watching him play is a joy.”

Kirk Porter, who was at home watching the match on TV, said he is proud of his Boys’ Town’s Raheem Porter posing with his Man of the Match prize after scoring in his team’s 1-0 win over Montego Bay United in the Red Stripe Premier League at the Montego Bay Sports Club on Monday.

son and that no father could ask for more than to play with their son.

“It’s a very good feeling because the guys told me he was playing good, and from that, I had a lot of confidence in him because I know he can play. Having the opportunity to play with my son, I couldn’t ask for more; it’s an amazing feeling,” the older Porter told The Gleaner.

Andrew Price, head coach of Boys’ Town, noted that the young Porter was important to the team and that it was good that he scored in his debut as it meant a lot for the club.

“He has played for us in the youth teams. He came through the ranks, so it was really good for him to score in his senior debut. His father is also on the team, he is our number-one goalkeeper, but has just returned from overseas. I know he is really proud of his son,” said Price.