Net Rockers and defending champs Winners Connection secured the final two semi-final berths in the third annual Upper Demerara Football Association/GT Beer Knockout Championships defeating Milerock and Amelia’s Ward Panthers on Sunday at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) in Linden. Net Rockers sent a strong warning to the remaining teams as they hammered heavyweight Milerock 5-1 in front of a sizable viewership.
Defender Deshawn Joseph started the rout in the 32nd minute as he converted from the penalty mark into the right corner following a clumsy challenge within the area.
It went from bad to worse for Milerock as they conceded another penalty kick following a handled ball infraction. Akin to the first, Joseph made no mistake from the mark as he buried his right footed shot past the opposing shot-stopper.
Denzil Pryce then piled further misery on Milerock as he netted four minutes later, slotting home into the back of the net after collecting a Shane Luckie cross within the six-yard area. Luckie then added his name to the scorer’s sheet in sublime fashion in the 65th minute, rifling a powerful free-kick from outside the top of the box into the back of the net, giving the ‘keeper no chance.
Orande Wills then completed the rout in the 75th minute, placing his attempt into the right corner from within the box, after collecting a pass from Joseph.
Milerock eventually netted a consolation goal in the 86th minute compliments of the burly Ron Fiedtkou. With the win, Net Rockers will now oppose Silver Shattas in the feature semi-final matchup tomorrow at the same location.
Meanwhile, two-time defending champs Winners Connection defeated Amelia Ward Panthers 1-0 compliments of a Keon Sears 38th minute strike. Due to the victory, Winners Connection will play Topp XX in the semi-final.
Winner of the tourney will pocket $800,000 and the championship trophy while the second placed unit will walk away with $500,000 and the corresponding accolade.
For the third placed unit, a package of $300,000 and a trophy will be up for grabs while the fourth positioned outfit will collect $200,000 and the respective trophy.
On the individual side, accolades will be awarded for the Most Valuable Player (MVP), Highest Goal Scorer, Best Goal-keeper, Best Defender and Best Coach. Similarly, an award will also be issued for the Most Disciplined Team.
