A thrilling semifinal clash at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds has set the stage for an intriguing Kenson Casimir Bay Bay Cup football final. Gros Islet Youth, a team composed of promising young talents, secured their place in the championship match after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory against Monchy United on February 15th.
The match unfolded as a dramatic contest of resilience and determination. Gros Islet Youth established an early advantage with swift goals from Mekhi Stanislaus and Samiel Louisien, catching Monchy United off-guard in the opening half. However, the experienced Monchy side demonstrated their fighting spirit after the interval, despite being hampered by two significant injuries.
The momentum shifted dramatically in the 67th minute when Gros Islet Youth’s goalkeeper received a red card for violent conduct, reducing the young Lions to ten players. Seizing the opportunity, Monchy’s veteran striker Troy ‘Eto’ Greenidge capitalized with his second goal, leveling the score and ultimately forcing the game into penalties.
The shootout culminated in an extraordinary display of composure from substitute goalkeeper Jerquan Joseph. After stonewalling Monchy’s fourth penalty with a diving save to his left, the national Under-20 defender stepped up to take the decisive fifth kick himself, securing a 5-4 victory and his team’s place in the final.
In the tournament’s other semifinal, defending champions Northern United narrowly defeated guest team New Generation 1-0 with a late goal from Kerdim Agdomar during added time. This sets up a fascinating final matchup between Northern United and Gros Islet Youth, particularly noteworthy as several members of the youth squad are active players for the defending champions.
The championship final and third-place playoff between Monchy United and New Generation will be contested on Sunday evening at the Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet.