By: BVIFA
Hanif James makes a save from the head of Junior Heyliger
Photo credit: Charlie E. Jackson
Courtesy of a rather bizarre goal from Kenmore Simmonds, Old Madrid F.C were crowned Division One Champions on Saturday June 14th, with a 1-0 defeat over nearest rivals, the Panthers F.C.
Just over the hour mark of a rather tepid clash and a game the Panthers had to win to have a chance of sneaking into top spot, Old Madrid skipper, Simmonds, raced onto a long ball down the Panthers left and as he ran out of space hit a speculative cross that fell straight into the arms of the Panthers keeper, Rudolph Davis. He however contrived to let the ball slip from his grasp and deflect into the net for the only goal of the game.
“It wasn’t a pretty victory” noted Simmonds “the keeper made a big mistake, but we had a good league season, we played well throughout and today were the best team too “
Simmonds, who said he was looking forward to the challenge of the Premier League next season, also noted that his team had benefitted from continued practice and also taking part in various tournaments as the BVI Masters team.
Team Coach, Elroy Mills, commented that despite a lack of discipline and time keeping, the team had all dug in and played well. “Whenever I had an eleven in mind players would turn up late and I had to use the bench. For “Old Folks” they played well, but now we will have to bring in some of the younger guys and get more disciplined with our approach”
Whilst Old Madrid have a chance to add to their silverware, the Panthers also have an opportunity to redeem their season, with both teams featuring in the Semi Finals of the Terry Evans cup.
On Saturday June 29th, the Panthers face the Premier League Champions elect, The Islanders F.C. and then Old Madrid take on VG United on the same day, with both matches scheduled for the A.O. Shirley Ground.
