In a breathtaking finale at Couva’s Ato Boldon Stadium on December 10, Pleasantville Secondary emerged victorious in the 2025 Secondary Schools Football League Coca-Cola Girls Intercol championship after defeating Five Rivers 5-3 in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 deadlock in regulation time.
The match began with Five Rivers establishing early dominance, creating multiple scoring opportunities within the opening minutes. Striker Akira Charles tested Pleasantville’s goalkeeper Akeila Marryshow with a well-placed shot, only to be denied by a spectacular diving save. Minutes later, captain Shaquilla Daniel missed a critical chance after evading Marryshow, shooting wide of an open net.
Pleasantville capitalized on these missed opportunities when captain Natalia Gosine executed a brilliantly taken free kick that deflected off a defender, wrong-footing Five Rivers goalkeeper Akilah George for the opening goal. The lead proved short-lived as Jadya Herbert’s persistent attacks down the left flank created an equalizer for Hackeemar Goodridge, who finished clinically from close range.
Five Rivers regained the advantage early in the second half when Goodridge struck again, converting another precise finish after finding space in the penalty area. The match seemed destined for Five Rivers’ victory until Zara Chase produced a moment of individual brilliance in the 67th minute, unleashing a spectacular long-range effort that curled into the top right corner.
The dramatic conclusion saw Goodridge stretchered off with an injury just before regulation time expired, setting the stage for the penalty shootout. Herbert’s crucial miss from the spot proved decisive, while Pleasantville converted all five attempts with clinical precision. Captain Gosine sealed the victory with the final penalty, triggering wild celebrations among Pleasantville players and fans alike.
Under the guidance of head coach Brian London, the new champions celebrated their hard-fought victory in the center circle, capturing the coveted title in one of the most memorable finals in recent SSFL history.