BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IT was an evening (May 30) of entertainment and drama as two teams battled in separate games to gain the final spot in the 2017 SKNFA Final Four Playoffs at Warner Park.
Beginning the evening knowing nothing but winning would keep alive their chance of qualifying for the Finalsive, H.E. Garden Hotspurs easily disposed of RAM’S Village Superstars 5-1.
That victory was initiated by a hat trick of goals from Tiran Hanley in the 48th, 64th and 85th minutes, while Rovan Wigley pitched in one in the 67th minute and Kennedy Isles added his in the 75th minute.
Spurs’ victory meant that they had acquired the same points as S. L. Horsford’s St. Paul’s, which needed at least a draw in their game against Cayon to secure a spot in the Finals and a loss would see them crashing out.
They however could not have staved off defeat as they lost 2-1 and bowed out of the competition.
The defending champions were quickly up 2-0 before the halftime interval as Javeim Blanchette netted in the 26th minute and Shaquille Pringle followed suit nine minutes later.
Know that their chance of qualification was slipping away, a talk from their coach spurred the team and Joash Leader found the back of the net four minutes into the second half.
That goal, however, was the only one for St. Paul’s as they were edged out by Spurs on goal difference.
Spurs and Cayon will now have two weeks to prepare their strategies in their quest for the top trophy in the First Division. The first of the three-prong battle kicks off on June 11, while the second is slated for June 14 and, if necessary, the third will be fought on June 17.
