Robert Bailey, Freelance Writer

Tyrone Marshall (left) heads in the equaliser against Costa Rica at the National Stadium on Wednesday night. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

ASH WEDNESDAY has become a special day in the life of national footballer, Tyrone Marshall.

The 32-year-old utility player scored his second goal for Jamaica in their come-from-behind 1-1 draw against Costa Rica in a friendly international on Wednesday night at the National Stadium.

Marshall's first goal for Jamaica was in a 1-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in their World Cup qualifier on February 28, 2001 at the same venue.

Substitute, Victor Nunez, gave the visitors the lead in the 80th minute when he broke free of two Jamaican defenders and then slotted the ball past custodian Donovan Ricketts.

However. Marshall came to the rescue in extra time with a well-aimed header that hit the target.

Did well

"I feel great," said Marshall in an interview with The Gleaner after the match. "I think overall we did well. We dominated the first half, but unfortunately, we didn't get any goals. Demar Phillips had a beautiful bicycle effort that hit the post," Marshall said.

"The crowd was very positive and we kept fighting throughout the game. We showed good team spirit and a lot of character," he said.

Marshall, who plays for Toronto in the US Major League Soccer (MLS), noted that he was now injury free.

"I'm very satisfied with my performance seeing that I haven't played a full 90 minutes in a long time," he said. "Tonight for me it was all about going out there and concentrating and being smart and this was what happened and I am happy with the end result," Marshall said.

"I must say thanks to the Jamaican public for coming out and supporting us because when I looked up in the stands I felt the vibes to play. I think the next time around it is going to be even better."