National heavyweight Sparta Boss was crowned the inaugural champions of the Rio Indoor Street ball champions after defeating Bent Street Saturday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.
The final did not disappoint the large gathering at the venue where the East La Penitence outfit prevailed 5-4 on penalty kicks after regulation and extra time ended 1-1.
Gregory Richardson scored the million dollar goal for the victors following Clive Nobrega’s miss from the distance.
Prior to the shoot-out, Colin Nelson handed Bent Street the lead in the 13th minute only for Eusi Phillips to equalise in the 16th minute. With the win, Sparta Boss walked away with $1,000,000 and a trophy, while the losers received $400,000 and the runners-up title.
Gold is Money bested Rio All-Stars 2-0 in the third place playoff. Keifer Brandt recorded goals in the fourth and 16th minute to take home $200,000 and a trophy while Rio All Stars pocketed $100,000 and a trophy.
In the semifinal matches, Sparta edged fierce rival Gold is Money 1-0. Ryan Hackett scored in the 10th minute. Also, Bent Street overcame Rio All-Stars 1-0 on penalty kicks after regulation and extra time ended 4-4.
Nelson fashioned a double in the 21st and 29th minute for Bent Street while Daniel Wilson and William Europe scored in the second and 15th minute each. For Rio All-Stars, Kelsey Benjamin bagged a brace in the 18th and 25th while Andrew Murray Jr., netted a double in the 27th and 35th minute.
According to a release from the coordinators, Three Peat Promotions, “The tournament was an overwhelming success on many fronts.
“We would like to thank the sponsors for their invaluable commitment and investment in making the tournament a reality as well as the fans for their unwavering support.
The organisers also thanked the players, and the law enforcement officers.
