Gold Cup Awards: Analyzing the best and worst of the group stages

Jamaica’s surprising hot start leads the way as Goal.com takes a look at the best and the worst of the Gold Cup group stages. Which team was the most disappointing? Take a look.

Exiting the group stages of the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Jamaica has captivated the imaginations of fans across the region with its exhilarating style of play. Featuring a squad filled with MLS talent, the Reggae Boyz are putting on the best show in the competition aside from Mexico, utilizing its pace and power to play adventurously on offense.

Goal.com takes a look at the best and the worst of the Gold Cup’s opening stage:

Player of the group stages: Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, Mexico

Proving that his stellar performances in Europe weren’t a result of playing with the world class talents at Manchester United, Hernandez continues to electrify the world soccer scene. In fact, a case could be made that he’s improved since leaving England as he has had two headed goals in despite only being 5’9’’.

Overachiever: Jamaica

Led by Demar Phillips and Dane Richards, Jamaica has proved that not all entertaining soccer has to be emulating the extreme technical prowess of Spain or Barcelona.

Relying on speed, dribbling and strong physical play, the Reggae Boyz just find a way to pull out results and put goals in the back of the net. Yes, it is appreciated when teams move the ball around but it is also highlight-worthy seeing Richards or Phillips dribble past two defenders to get scoring opportunities.

United States international goalkeeper Tim Howard said he looked forward to playing against Jamaica but prefaced it by admitting that he should be careful for what he wishes for.

Source:Goal.com

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