Coach Avondale Williams was pleased with the overall performance of a hastily re arranged team, which had fallen 'foul' of FIFA’s eligibility rules. Photo: Provided

The game’s only goal came in the 6th minute when Mervyn Hazlewood took advantage of a defensive lapse to calmly slot the ball past the BVI’s Man of the Match, Daniel Barker. Photo: Charlie E. Jackson/ VINO

The lone and important goal came in the 6^th minute when Mervyn Hazlewood took advantage of a defensive lapse to calmly slot the ball past the BVI’s Man of the Match, Daniel Barker.

Coach Avondale Williams was, nevertheless, pleased with the overall performance of a hastily re arranged team, which had fallen “foul” of FIFA’s eligibility rules.

“I’m very pleased with the performance of my team tonight, we had to reshuffle things at the last minute, but all the players stepped up and battled well. Debutants Mario Burke, Allon Williams all played well as did Daniel Barker in goal. Hopefully we can be more successful as we go on.”

Barker was a standout performer, playing in goal. “We played well and in terms of performance, we are getting better every game. It’s not about individual performance, but how we play as a team, so tonight bodes well for the future.”

One of the young debutants was Mario Burke who came to the squad late but impressed both in training and during his first game for the territory. “I really went out there and tried my best; I’m not as fit as I want to be, but I went out there and gave it my all. I will be getting up early, training, running and doing what I can to get even better for the games against Dominica.”

The team, whilst ceding large amounts of possession to Antigua, had several opportunities to level the match, but where thankful to Barker who pulled off some stunning saves, especially a double block late in the second half.

James Shearman was adjudged off side just before he unleashed a shot, which went narrowly over the bar and with a slightly longer leg, Andy Davis would have made a crucial contact inside the six yard box after Allon Williams won a free kick just outside the box.

The team was scheduled to leave for Dominica this morning and will be preparing for a two-legged first round of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup to be held in Russia.

The first leg is scheduled for March 26, and the second leg on Sunday March 29, 2015. Both games will be played at Windsor Park in Dominica.