On Monday, the ExxonMobil U-14 Schools’ Football tournament kicked off at the Ministry of Education ground in Georgetown, Guyana.
Both reigning champions secured convincing victories, laying down a marker for their title defences.
Bartica Secondary, last year’s winners in the boys’ division, wasted no time asserting their dominance. They comfortably dispatched L’Aventure Secondary 3-0.
Jaden Christian scored in the fourth minute, followed by goals from Ray Spencer (15th minute) and Lenny Skeete (30th minute) to secure all three points for the Region 7 outfit.
The girls’ defending champions, Waramuri Primary Top, sent a clear message of intent with a resounding 8-0 win against the Institute of Academic Excellence (IAE).
Nickisha Williams led the goal rampage with a brace (4th and 15th minutes), while Brentia Marks mirrored her feat with two quick goals of her own (19th and 20th minutes).
The scoring continued with additional strikes from Morwina Boyal (16th), Erika Harris (17th), Shelleyon France (25th), and Teanna Abrams (29th).
There was a surprise result on the opening day, with perennial contenders Chase’s Academic Foundation held to a goalless draw by Leonora Secondary.
Adding to the pre-match buzz, the participating schools took part in a vibrant march past competition. Christchurch Secondary emerged victorious, collecting the trophy for their impressive display.
There will be no further eliminations after the ‘top eight’ stage.
Winning schools will receive grants ranging from G$400,000 for the champions to G$75,000 for fourth place.
Individual accolades will also be awarded, with the Most Valuable Players (MVP) in both the boys’ and girls’ categories receiving school supplies for a year, courtesy of Petra.
