A dramatic Sunday in the Barbados Football Association Premier League witnessed a significant power shift as Paradise FC stormed back to the summit with a commanding 5-0 victory over UWI Blackbirds. This decisive win, coupled with former leaders Brittons Hill’s surprising 3-1 defeat to Kickstart Rush, propelled Paradise to the top of the table with 21 points.
The Dover-based Paradise side delivered a masterclass in offensive play at the Wildey Turf. Kamol Griffith emerged as a key protagonist, netting a brace, while Sheran Hoyte, Tiago Barrow, and Shamari Harewood each contributed a goal to complete the comprehensive rout. The team’s dominance was so absolute that goalkeeper Jireh Malcom was afforded a rest in the closing stages of the match.
Reflecting on the volatile nature of the season, Paradise coach Mario Harte praised the league’s competitiveness. ‘It’s a good feeling to start the second round with a win,’ Harte stated. ‘Our philosophy remains taking it game by game. Fitness is paramount, and the players are responding exceptionally well.’
In the day’s early fixture, a crucial top-of-the-table clash saw Kickstart Rush dismantle Brittons Hill’s leadership ambitions. Azarel Crooney initiated the upset with an eighth-minute opener, followed by a superb 62nd-minute finish from national Under-17 talent Jamarco Johnson. Although Steven Pierre managed a consolation goal for Brittons Hill in the 73rd minute, Ethan Squires sealed Kickstart’s deserved victory with a last-gasp goal in stoppage time.
The day’s most devastating result saw Ellerton deliver an 8-0 demolition of a beleaguered Wotton side, whose day began with the departure of head coach Marlon Harte. Captain Shakille Belle spearheaded the assault with a impressive hat-trick, supported by a double from Roshon Gittens and additional goals from Marco St Hill, Keshem Moore, and Anson Barrow. This result leaves Wotton anchored at the bottom without a single point, facing a formidable battle against relegation.
With the league table now showing Paradise (21 points), Ellerton (20 points), and Kickstart Rush (20 points) separated by the narrowest of margins, the stage is set for a intensely competitive second half of the season.