Elite League: Western Tigers stun GDF in opening match; Den Amtsel beats Mainstay 10-1

Defending champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) suffered a 2-1 defeat to Western Tigers in their opening match of the seventh Elite League season at the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) National Training Centre in Providence.

The loss represents a significant setback for the two-time defending champions.

Last season, they faced a tight title race, narrowly edging out Slingerz Football Club.

Abumchi Opara gave GDF an early lead in the 22nd minute, but Western Tigers rallied strongly before half-time.

Simeon Moore equalised in the 35th minute, and Andrew Murray Jr. secured the lead just before the break in the 45th minute.

Though early into the league, the result will raise some questions about GDF’s title defence, in what is usually a close top-two jostle between them and Slingerz FC.

Den Amstel delivered a ruthless performance earlier in the night, demolishing newcomers Mainstay Gold Stars 10-1.

Keanu Lawrence, Deon Alfred, and Anthony Benn all scored hat-tricks, while Cleavon Murray added a late tenth goal in the 92nd minute. Jefferey Joseph scored Mainstay’s solitary goal in the 30th minute.

The Elite League action continues on Sunday, March 16.

At 18:30h, Santos Football Club will face Ann’s Grove Football Club, followed by a clash between Guyana Police Force Football Club and Fruta Conquerors at 21:00h.

While the GFF has yet to officially announce the prize structure for this season, last year’s winners received $2,000,000, with $1,000,000 awarded to the runners-up, $800,000 for third place, and $500,000 for fourth.