Yearend Football Championship
Tournament host Den Amstel and Uitvlugt will face-off in the inaugural GT Beer Yearend Football Championship finale, following hard-fought semi-final wins on Friday at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground.
In front of a large crowd, Den Amstel overcame Young Achievers 4-2 on penalty kicks, after regulation and extra time ended scoreless in a contest that featured few goal-scoring opportunities.
The youthful home side was clinical from the distance, as they easily dispatched their spot-kicks. On the other hand, the visitors were erratic from the mark, as they failed twice to seal their exit.
Meanwhile, Uitvlugt earned their place in the championship match, overcoming traditional foe Pouderoyen 1-0 in a bruising affair.
Jamal Harvey recorded what proved to be the winner in the 30th minute, in a clash that threatened to explode due to the level of physicality on display.
The attacking midfielder made his presence felt amongst the crunching tackles inside the penalty box, directing a powerful header into the back of the net, after latching onto a right-side cross from winger Trayon Bobb.
It was an unexpected way to break the deadlock, as the diminutive Harvey, rose above Pouderoyen’s giant backline to fashion the opener.
Prior to the commencement of the finale, the losing semi-finalists will lock horns in the traditional third place playoff.
The other sides that competed in the eighth team tournament were Zeelugt, Crane Rovers, Eagles and Wales FC.
Winner of the competition will receive $400,000 and the championship trophy, while the runner-up will pocket $200,000 and the corresponding accolade.
The third and fourth place finisher will walk away with $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.
Results
Game-1
Uitvlugt-1 vs Pouderoyen-0
Jamal Harvey-30th
Game-2
Den Amstel-0 vs Young Achievers-0
Den Amstel won 4-2 on penalty kicks
