Man of the Hour: Ryan Thompson Q&A

PHILADELPHIA - After the final whistle of the Mexico VS. Panama match, the stage was set for the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup final between Jamaica VS. Mexico.

Regardless of the controversial finish of the second semi-final fixture, the first fixture between USA VS. Jamaica featured the up and coming Reggae Boyz defeating the USMNT 2-1. Stepping up big for his team was Jamaican Keeper, and former UT standout Ryan Thompson. The victory over the defending champions made them the first Carribean nation to reach the CONCACAF Gold Cup final.

Recently, we got a chance to discuss the Gold Cup along with a few other subjects with Thompson to shed some light on a few things and dive in to the mind of the Jamaican Keeper.

Do you feel this victory over the U.S. and performance in the Gold Cup will finally bring Jamaica the respect it deserves on the international level of football?

RT: To be honest Respect is one of the most important things for us (Jamaica). It's been a constant fight to get that here in America and internationally. So defeating the USA here in a semifinal on home soil is a big statement. I do hope thou that our work, talent, and team don't go unnoticed. We won the Caribbean, also gave a great account of ourselves in Copa America and now in the finals of the Gold Cup. That's huge, and I sincerely hope we can get the respect we deserve internationally.

Do you expect a lot of River hound supporters to come out with the final being so close to Pittsburgh?

RT: I would love to have their support in the stands if they can make it but if they can't I know they'll be supporting from home or the bars.. Especially the steal Army.

What was going through your mind when the final whistle blew, and you realized that you were going to play in the final, and more importantly be the first Caribbean nation ever to play in the final?

RT: It was surreal to me. It still hasn't hit me as yet. But it's an incredible feeling to be a part of history. I'm just happy for my teammates, family and country in general. Our country needed this experience and joy. We haven't had much to celebrate about since qualifying for the 1998 World Cup. So to win the Caribbean Cup last year, participate in the Copa America and now to be in the Gold Cup finals is just incredible. I'm happy to be a part of that.

Where does this tournament rank for you in the top moments of your career?

RT: To be honest it's up there and may even be number one. I experienced playing in the Champions League and Europa Cup, but there is something about this experience that sets it apart. Being in exile for eight years from the national team because I chose to come to the states for College and other reasons. Then last year making my return and going on numerous tours as a backup. After eight years getting my first start against Japan and winning the Caribbean Cup then to Copa America, and now in the Finals of a Gold Cup. This tournament has simply been a blessing and something I will never forget.

I know you're a big team player and always supportive of the manager's decisions. But do you feel that after your great play in the tournament will lead to you challenging for the #1 choice as the keeper?

RT: My aim has always been to serve my country in any way form or fashion. I would love to be the number one goalkeeper, but we also have other class goalkeepers that are aspiring to do the same thing. I can only control the things I can, and that is to give my best every single time I take the field and leave the rest to God and the coaching staff.

Thompson, who recently became the starting keeper after an injury to starting keeper Dwayne Miller, has been a big key to the side's success. He has played phenomenally in the Gold Cup tournament posting a clean sheet after coming on against El Salvador, and against Haiti in the quarterfinal. During his time as a Spartan, he was a four-year starter at goalkeeper for Tampa from 2006-09. He concluded his career with a 1.12 GAA and 14 shutouts, with a record of 38-12-3. He remains the school's all-time leader in saves and ranks in the top-five in all goalkeeping categories. Thompson currently plays for the USL's Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

Fans can follow the action on Sunday kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. EST, the game will be broadcasted on Fox Sports1 check your local listings for availability. Also, fans can follow along with the action by visiting www.CONCACAF.com/category/goldcup.