THE Marigot playing field was ablaze as the Blackheart Production crew, support staff and Saint Lucia Football Association officials steamed their way into that community this past weekend for the Big 8 Western Zonal showpiece for the two available spots in that region. The highlight of the day was a 1-0 win for Roseau over Canaries, their first in five years.
In the first encounter, former Blackheart Champions, Anse la Raye took on South Castries. Both teams played a similar brand of football and there were not many scoring opportunities which resulted in the game ending 0-0
In the penalty shootout Anse la Raye went ahead 4-3.
Match No.2, saw another former Blackheart champion Canaries up against Roseau, playing at home, and with their crowd support behind them the Roseau team took charge of the game, and in the process, created a few scoring opportunities against the visitors who at the time were playing without four of their key players due to the transfer window.
Roseau finally broke the deadlock as Millan Jules found the back of the net and despite Canaries fighting spirit to equalize to stay alive, Jules’ goal would proved to be the only one scored as Roseau went on to win 1-0.
This result meant that Anse la Raye and the Roseau Valley would play in the final encounter of the day to determine the top seed from the western zone.
It was not the type of crowd the organizers expected as there were other social activities near and far, but the supporters from both teams were treated to some delightful football especially from Roseau, certainly a team to look for in future tournaments.
Despite their fast pace game Anse la Raye captain Eric Gabriel and his team were equal to the task in both offensive and defensive moments for the 45 minutes of play on the pitch as the scoreline remained nil all.
In the penalty shootout to settle the deal, Roseau nosed ahead 3-2.
Meanwhile, the final round of zonal qualification is scheduled for this coming Saturday 18th August, at the Marchand Ground, The Northern Zone.
From 2.00 p.m. Central Castries will play La Clery; Marchand will be up against the National Under -20s at 3.00 p.m.; Gros Islet then play the winner of Game 1 or 2. The final game will see winner versus winner.
The Big 8 will be held on Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd September.
