MLSSoccer.com’s video feature “The Hex” follows the six CONCACAF nations competing in this edition of the Hexagonal: the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, Trinidad and Tobago, Panama and Honduras. In this episode, “The Hex” spotlights T&T and their MLS players, including the Seattle Sounders’ Joevin Jones, Minnesota United’s Kevin Molino and Atlanta Untied’s Kenwyne Jones.
Prior to last Friday’s qualifier against club teammate Roman Torres and Panama in Port of Spain, Jones’ two assists led the Sounders to a resounding 3-1 win over the New York Red Bulls on March 19.
“I think sometimes we have a little more pressure because we are the champions,” Jones said. “All teams will be coming at us, so it’ll take more hard work and more focus for us to defend our Cup.”
Jones left Seattle the following day for Trinidad and Tobago. Despite entering in fifth place with zero points, Jones and T&T were confident heading into the match with Panama.
“It’s the Hex, anything can happen," Jones said. “I think we have a good chance. When I put on this jersey, it means a lot to me. Sometimes I come out and see the crowd, my pulse [rises], it’s an honor, always an honor for me to step out onto the pitch to wear this red, white and black shirt.”
Jones had the game-winning assist to Molino to pace T&T’ to a 1-0 win to get them back into the mix. Although they still currently sit just outside qualification, a win over Panama has the Trinidadians optimistic, especially given what a World Cup appearance would mean.
“The crime rate in Trinidad right now is high, so maybe if we qualify for the World Cup it can change things,” Jones said. “People love soccer, so it’ll change a lot...The dream is back alive.”
