CORONA FUTSAL: Sparta’s draw gives California Square fighting chance

Title favourites Sparta Boss were held to a 1-1 draw by California Square, which has rejuvenated the former’s chance of qualifying for the Round-of-16 in the Corona Futsal Tournament.

Action continued Tuesday evening at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue, and the big shocker of the night was Sparta Boss being tied by California Square on the second night of round-robin action.

Veteran Gregory Richardson scored for Sparta in the ninth minute, but Mishack Buretta levelled 10 minutes later.

It means should Sparta lose their final group match to Back Circle, they would risk the chance of qualifying in the top two, should California defeat the winless Beacon.

However, there is still possibility of making the cut as one of the best three third place finishers.

Meanwhile, Tucville’s 1-4 loss to Tiger Bay has virtually left them needing to win their final match against West Front Road to stand any chance of progression.

Other winners of the night were Leopold Street who decimated Mocha 6-0; Back Circle crushing Beacons 7-2 with Selwyn Williams helping himself to a hat-trick and former champions Bent Street outplaying Future Stars 4-2.

The final match of the night saw North East La Penitence secure an upset 1-0 win over usual front runners West Front Road. The final night of round-robin matches will be Saturday from 19:30h.

For teams who win their group they will be awarded $40,000, second $30,000, third $15,000 and fourth $10,000 as an added incentive to increase decisive play even in group matches.

The championship prize stands at $500,000. Second to fourth pocket $250,000, $150,000 and $75,000 respectively. The Most Valuable Player will earn a Hero Motorcycle and a lucky fan is expected to be rewarded handsomely.

Saturday’s fixtures:

19:30h         Beacons vs California Square      

20:15h         Mocha vs Future Stars   

21:00h         Tucville vs West Front Road       

21:45h         Tiger Bay vs North East La Penetance      

22:30h         Leopold Street vs Bent Street    

23:15h         Back Circle vs Sparta Boss