Only weeks ago, seemingly assured of repeating as back-to-back champions, Portmore United's wretched run of form continued when they went down 3-1 to Boys' Town in the Digicel Premier League (DPL) at Collie Smith Drive yesterday, pushing a finishing tape, which had seemed just within reach, now yards away.
With the finishing line in their sights, the St Catherine outfit, who had previously not lost back-to-back games all season, have now dropped six points in their last two matches following their 1-0 loss to Arnett Gardens at midweek.
The visitors looked to have put that loss behind them and began brightly at Boys' Town with Mario Swaby's 15th-minute header giving them the early lead.
They were, however, rocked back on their heels in the 24th minute when George Vernal ferociously booted in a peach of a goal from close to 30 yards, giving Portmore custodian Shawn Sawyers no chance.
The Red Brigade added to their advantage early in the second half with captain Michael Campbell tapping home from close range, after Jermaine Bailey had sprinted down the left flank to serve up the ball at his feet in the 47th minute.
Things got worse for a bewildered Portmore in the 59th minute as defender Tyrone Sawyers in attempting to clear a cross, got an inadvertent touch over the head of Sawyers and into the roof of his own net.
Damion William had a chance to pull one back for Portmore, but his 70th-minute effort summed up the way things had pretty much gone for the defending champions, as on the counter although easily beating Boys' Town keeper Kirk Porter, he took careful aim before firing wide of the open target.
"Maybe it's a little bit of nerves. The team is seeing the title but we're just not reaching it. Nonetheless, we are still in the lead and our destiny is in our own hands," said Portmore coach Linval Dixon.
Boys' Town coach Andrew Price was pleased with his team's effort.
"To be honest, it has been tough to motivate the team since the Champions Cup (all-island KO final), but we sat them down had a little talk with them and they really came out here and delivered," he said.
With only two rounds remaining, Portmore lead Tivoli Gardens by two points. Both will meet in a top- of-the-table clash at Ferdie Neita Park on Wednesday.