A matchup between two heavyweight sides will highlight the semi-final round of the second annual Stag Beer Super XVI Knockout Championships when champions Grove Hi-Tech oppose Victoria Kings today at the Golden Grove Community ground.
To many pundits, the matchup at 21:00hrs will be considered a virtual final since both sides were considered among the favourites to lift the championships at the start of the event. Though they possess the title, it has been an inconsistent showing from the defending champs in their bid to retain the championships.
A nail-biting penalty shoot-out win over Golden Grove, followed by a cagey win over Pouderoyen, has highlighted their tournament so far. Offensively, Grove Hi-Tech has scored four times, with Lloyd Matthews, Akeem James, Orson Francois and Denzil Crawford each finding the net once.
Defensively, the East Bank of Demerara unit has had two goals already recorded against them.
While they might not possess the offense of their opponents, Victoria Kings has been the best defensive unit in the tourney, with no goals conceded following gruell-ing matchups against Stewartville and Uitvlugt Warriors.
The East Coast of Demerara unit has struggled in attack with only two goals recorded both scored by Alden Lawrence.
The opening semi-final at 19:00hrs also promises to be an exciting matchup when Ann’s Grove, losing finalist in the inaugural tournament, opposes fellow East Coast of Demerara outfit Mahaica Determinators.
Coming off the back of a 4-0 win over Beavers FC, Ann’s Grove will be considered the favourite in the contest and will aim to secure consecutive berths to the finale.
From an attacking standpoint, Ann’s Grove possesses the highest scoring offence with six goals from their two previous matches. Shafeer Sanichara leads the attack with two conversions while Andrew Murray Jr., Kevon Barry, Anil Hernandes and Jamain Rodgers have each scored once.
Ann’s Grove has only conceded one goal so far and while they will be praised for their offensive capabilities, Mahaica must be lauded for their defensive strengths as they are yet to be breached in the event.
Offensively, the Determinators have racked up four goals, with Quincy Holder leading the way with two strikes followed by Samuel Charles and Eon Abel with one each.
Winner of the tourney will pocket $1,500,000 and the championship trophy while the second, third and fourth place units will receive $500,000, $300,000 and $200,000 respectively and the corresponding accolade.
