Rohan Valcin and Justice Germaine scored early, and a red card shifted the momentum as La Clery defeated Gros Islet 2-1 on Sunday night at Grande Riviere Playing Field in the Saint Lucia Football Association’s Northern Zone Under-20 Men’s District Tournament.
Valcin and Germaine scored within the first 15 minutes in this meeting of two previously unbeaten teams. League-leading scorer Rickelme Lionel responded just before halftime with his sixth goal of the season, leaving the fixture well-poised.
Mikel Castang was sent off, harshly, for retaliation in the 52nd minute, putting Gros Islet on the back foot.
“It was a good game,” said La Clery coach Zaine Pierre. “Two teams with very technical players. I knew it would be a tough encounter, but we planned well and executed, so we came out victorious. We knew what to expect from them.”
At the same venue, two late goals gave Babonneau their second win, 2-0 over Central Castries. Joshua Norley netted in the 73rd minute and Tyrese Inglis added an insurance goal in the 84th to leave the lads from the capital winless and bottom of the table.
Babonneau and Gros Islet now have six points each, trailing La Clery, who lead with nine. Marchand have three points, while Central Castries remain without a point.
In the Eastern Zone Boys Under-20 Men’s District Tournament at Micoud Playing Field, Dennery beat Micoud 3-0 with goals from Bourne Innocent (13th minute), Tafari Martin (84th), and an own goal by Ortecia Charles (59th). Mabouya Valley triumphed over Mon Repos 3-0 with goals from Cody Alexander (32nd), Ethan Oculi (52nd), and Curim Mathew (63rd).
Matches will continue on Wednesday at both venues.
