A hard fought 1 -1 draw in their final match versus Valley Soccer Club in the inaugural Saint Lucia National Lotteries Authority (SLNLA) Castries Super League was enough to secure VSADC another Castries championship.
The draw took their points tally to twenty-two points (22) after eight (8) matches while Valley Soccer moved to sixteen (16) points with a game in hand but secured second place.
The penultimate match of the tournament was effectively a winner take all final between the tournament’s two best teams.
Valley Soccer Club struck first on the stroke of half time when captain Azah Daniel fired in a low cross which found the boots of national striker Malik St. Prix who calmly found the back of the nets.
The second half was tightly contested as both teams resorted to physical play and robust tackles. Unfortunately for Valley Soccer Club a foul in the penalty area resulted the match official pointing to the spot.
Given a lifeline, Rommeil Felix stepped up and made no mistake as he dispatched the ball past the goalkeeper.
With Valley Soccer Club chasing a goal the last few minutes of match saw frantic action with VSADC missing numerous chances to secure the victory.
However, at the final whistle a draw was enough to secure the title for VSADC and cemented second place for Valley Soccer Club. This result spoilt VSADC’s attempt to achieve a one hundred percent (100%) record for the tournament, however, the victory meant back-to-back Castries titles.
In a prize giving ceremony after the match the following awards were given;
Champions – VSADC
2nd place – Valley Soccer Club
3rd place – Lancers FC
Best Defender – Benerero Wellington – VSADC
Best Midfielder – Anthony Christopher – NYAH FC
Golden Gloves – Kennedy Duncan – VSADC
Although there was disappointment on the day, Valley Soccer Club can take solace in their victory in the promotional league component of the tournament.
This victory earns them the opportunity to participate in the 2023 President’s Cup with a chance to advance to the 2nd Division of the Saint Lucia Football Association Club Championship.
Golden Boots – Mervin St. Romaine – Valley Soccer Club who scored six (6) goals.
The affiliates and Executive Committee of the Castries Football Council express sincere gratitude to the tournament’s main sponsor the Saint Lucia National Lotteries Authorities.
In addition the Castries Football Council thanks the match officials, the SAB Management Committee, the grounds staff at the SAB and members of the media who provided a platform for visibility.
Mostly importantly the CFC thanks the many football fans who supported the tournament and looks forward to their support for future tournaments.
SOURCE: Castries Football Council. Headline photo (L to R) VSADC & Valley Soccer Club teams.
