Blackheart SLFA Under-20 Boys Duel Set for FBLG

The stage is set for an exciting semi-final in this season’s Blackheart SLFA Boys Under-20 Knockout tournament, following a challenging quarter-final round.

Last weekend showcased intense competition as teams vied for qualifying spots, with the semi-finalists aiming for the coveted title in this inaugural youth football contest: Gros Islet, La Clery, Soufriere, and Vieux Fort South.

In the highlight of the weekend, Soufriere triumphed in the ‘west coast derby’ against Canaries, securing a 3-1 victory at the Soufriere Stadium. After trailing 1-0 at halftime, Soufriere, winners of the SLFA U-20 Western Zone Football League, rebounded with impressive skill.

Zyhym Jn Charles put Canaries ahead in the 24th minute, but Rishawn Prospere equalized for Soufriere in the 55th minute. Eymani Butcher and Cassian Joseph sealed the win with goals in the closing minutes.

In another quarter-final clash, Vieux Fort South edged out South Castries with a narrow 1-0 victory, courtesy of a goal from Y Francis in the 74th minute.

On Saturday, top-seeded La Clery faced a stiff challenge against Mabouya Valley, ending in a goalless draw. However, La Clery advanced to the next round by winning 5-4 on penalties.

Gros Islet also secured their semi-final berth with a convincing 3-1 win over Dennery in Quarter Final #2. Despite being reduced to 10 men, the Northern Pride team held their ground, demonstrating impressive resilience throughout the tournament.

After winning the SLFA’s Northern Zone league, Gros Islet previously defeated Laborie in the Round of 16 of the Blackheart tournament.

In their quarter-final match against Dennery, fourth-seed ranked Gros Islet led 1-0 at halftime with a 21st-minute goal from Rickelme Lionel. Thierry Morille extended the lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute, with Dennery’s Dervontae Agyemang narrowing the gap in the 62nd minute.

However, Joshua George restored Gros Islet’s two-goal cushion in injury time.

Organizers anticipate a thrilling showdown this weekend at the Francis “Baba” Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet, as the island’s top teams clash in pursuit of the championship title.