A new page in the colourful history of the Primary Football League Rally was written last Saturday as the youngsters from St. Ignatius Prep claimed their first Rally championship after defeating Cayman Prep 2-0 in an entertaining final.
Winners. St. Ignatius football team. Photo: Neil Murray |
St. Ignatius’ run to the finals included wins over Prospect Primary, Triple C in the quarterfinals, and a nail-biting semi-final penalty shootout victory over eventual third-place winners John A. Cumber Primary from West Bay. Their opponents in the final, Cayman Prep, rebounded from a rough start after losing to Prospect Primary by default, to defeat St. Ignatius in the group stages, defending champions George Town Primary in the quarter-finals, and Red Bay Primary in the semi-finals.
The final game was a thrilling encounter, which saw St. Ignatius take a first-half lead through goals from Tyler Lee and Julian Moxam. Cayman Prep finally came to play in the second-half and created many an anxious moment for the new champions but it was not to be their day. St. Ignatius held on for the victory and their first trophy for the new season. John A. Cumber claimed third place after defeating Red Bay Primary 1-0.
On hand to meet and greet the participating teams prior to the kickoff of the Rally was Richard Hew, CUC’s President & C.E.O., and Angela Martins, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Training, Employment, Youth, Sports & Culture. The two dignitaries then donned their ‘football boots’ and officially kicked off the first ball of the tournament prior to the opening game between St. Ignatius and Prospect Primary.
The magical pass from Mrs. Martins to Mr. Hew was a prelude of things to come, as spectators were entertained throughout the day by the talent and skill on display. As expected, the teams brought something unique to the famous Annex Field on this day, but as all in attendance would agree, whether in defeat or victory, the thrill of competition was always captivating as the youngsters left it all on the field.
Organisers Ronnie Roach and his team of Harcourt Wason and Philip Hackett from the Department of Education were praised for their work in hosting another successful Rally; Also appreciated were: State Street Cayman Trust Ltd. for sponsoring the impressive trophies; George Town Sports Club for the use of their tents; and all who were in attendance cheering on their respective teams and players. The regular season begins this Saturday, October 22 at a field near you and if the Rally is any indication of what the season has in store… you definitely won’t want to miss any games. League sponsors CUC encourages the community to come out and support ‘the powerful game’.
Related Videos
