In a climactic conclusion to the Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division season, Naparima College emerged victorious with a hard-fought 2-1 triumph over Signal Hill Secondary on November 27 at Lewis Street in San Fernando. The victory secured Naparima’s fifth championship title in the competition’s history, adding to their previous wins in 2014, 2015, 2018, and 2019.
The match began with both teams level on 34 points, separated only by goal differential in a tense three-way title race that also included St Benedict’s College. Naparima demonstrated immediate dominance, controlling possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities from the opening whistle.
Riquelme Phillips broke the deadlock in the seventh minute with a clinical close-range finish after Signal Hill’s defense failed to clear a dangerous cross. The home side doubled their advantage in the 20th minute through defender Sebastian James, who converted a clever training-ground free-kick routine orchestrated by Jabari Rodriguez and Jayden Caprietta.
Signal Hill, coached by Downie Marcelle, struggled throughout the first half but emerged transformed after the interval. Their resurgence culminated in an 83rd-minute penalty converted by center back Raevion Marshall, setting up a nervy finale. The visitors came agonizingly close to equalizing when winger Immanual Wright struck a superb free kick against the crossbar in the second half.
Despite Signal Hill’s late pressure, Naparima’s defense held firm under the guidance of coach Angus Eve, securing the vital three points that delivered the championship. The victory lifted Naparima to 37 points, one point clear of St Benedict’s College, who secured second position with a 5-0 victory over Trinity College East but ultimately fell short of the title.
The final league standings saw Naparima claim top honors with 37 points from 15 matches, followed by St Benedict’s (36 points), Signal Hill (34 points), Presentation College San Fernando (34 points), and Fatima College (32 points) rounding out the top five positions.