In a thrilling TT Premier Football League (TTPFL) Phase II encounter on December 12, Defence Force FC secured a crucial 2-1 victory against Prisons FC at La Horquetta Recreation Grounds through a dramatic late winner from Sheldon Bateau.
The match began with intense midfield battles before Defence Force broke the deadlock in the 37th minute. Adriel George demonstrated exceptional technical ability by creating space outside the penalty area after receiving a precise pass from Rivaldo Coryat, subsequently unleashing a powerful right-footed strike that found the left corner beyond goalkeeper Jabari Gray’s reach.
Prisons FC responded with determined second-half pressure and eventually found their equalizer in the 75th minute. Weslie John executed a perfectly timed diving header that connected with a low cross, beating Defence Force goalkeeper Isaiah Williams to level the score.
The match appeared destined for a draw until the 83rd minute when Sheldon Bateau rose magnificently to meet a corner kick with a glancing header that directed the ball toward the far post, securing all three points for the defending champions. Despite Prisons’ frantic efforts to find another equalizer in the closing minutes, Defence Force’s defense held firm.
This victory maintains Defence Force’s pursuit of a top-three position with 14 points, trailing third-placed Club Sando by just one point in the tightly contested standings.
In the earlier match at the same venue, San Juan Jabloteh claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory against La Horquetta Rangers through Kaseem Ballantyne’s extra-time winner. The match saw Malachi Webb giving Jabloteh an early lead before Kesean St Rose equalized for Rangers, setting the stage for Ballantyne’s last-gasp heroics.
League action continued through December 13 with matches at Ato Boldon Stadium featuring Eagles FC versus Central FC and AC Port of Spain facing Club Sando. The matchday schedule concludes on December 14 with Point Fortin Civic hosting 1976 Phoenix FC and league leaders Police FC meeting Caledonia AIA at Mahaica Sports Complex.