Yelvanny Rose strikes league crown |02 October 2006

A beautiful and intelligent strike by the robust striker was the highlight of Saturday’s First Division title decider. Rose, 26, beat the advancing goalie Sopha with a delicate shot which hit the back of the net to send his team’s fans in raptures.

With Anse Réunion needing a win to claim their first League title and St Michel a draw to pick their seventh League crown, Rose was the hero as the game looked to be heading for a 0-0 stalemate.

Asked what went through his mind when he picked up midfield anchorman Armantal Ernesta’s inch-perfect pass on the right flank, Rose replied:

“I know Nelson (Sopha) has a habit of leaving his goal-line and when I spotted him away from his goal, I quickly played the ball over him. To be frank, I did not see the ball go into the net as Neddy Rose put in a late tackle and I was on the ground. I feel good to have scored the all-important goal which has given Anse Réunion their first First Division League title. This goal might also give me the top-scorer title. Also I was thinking of putting an end to my career as a player to concentrate on my professional career but now I am  99% sure of playing again next season. The title has given me the motivation to pursue my career as a footballer.”

Hobbling as a result of a calf injury, Rose added that he hopes to be fit to help The Pirates get the much-needed win against Mauritius this coming Saturday in the group four qualifying match counting for the African Nations Cup 2008.
 
G. G.