By Avenash Ramzan
Port Kaituma footballers are the new male champions of the Amerindian Heritage Games after a hard-fought and exciting contest against a determined Paurima side on Sunday night at the Everest ground, Camp Road.
The teams played to a thrilling 1-1 draw at the end of regulation time, and by the time the penalties ended in the wee hours on Monday, it was the Port Kaituma lads of Region One and their large fan base that were celebrating sweet success.
Port Kaituma won 4-2 on penalties.
Cornel St. Romain tucked in the first goal of the game, putting Port Kaituma ahead in the 37th minute, before Canadian Smith levelled the scores with a strike in the 72nd minute for Paurima of Region Seven.
Both goalkeepers had a busy night, as there were several shots on target, all of which prompted a reaction from the massive crowd.
Goalkeeper Rockell Reddy, who made some brilliant saves for Port Kaituma throughout the tournament, was named Most Valuable Player.
The victory for Port Kaituma sparked wild celebrations among the players and supporters, and it was a fitting way to end three days of intense rivalry at the Heritage Games.
The competing teams in male football this year were Port Kaituma, Paurima, District Two of Mahdia, GT Kanaimas, Santa Aratak, Itabac, Moraikobai, Rockstone, Guyana Rush Saints, St. Cuthbert’s, Orealla/Siparuta, Mainstay Wyaka and 2019 champions Moruca.
