Football: Seychelles Football Federation (SFF) Cup |13 January 2024
West Boyz FC, Real Maldives, Bazar Brothers move to the next stage
Grand Anse Mahe-based West Boyz FC have progressed to the next of the Seychelles Football Federation Cup after posting a 2-0 victory over Mavericks FC on Wednesday at Stad Linite.
On Thursday, Real Maldives hammered Mont Buxton 12-0 and yesterday Pointe Larue Bazar Brothers needed extra-time to eliminate Rovers on a 5-2 score.
The young squad of West Boyz brought their game to their opponents on Wednesday and in the 24th minute Kirrie Lepere failed to give his team the lead by shooting wide from a clear opportunity.
Sensing danger, Mavericks, who had triumphed over Rangers on a 6-0 score in the preliminary phase and were expected to bring their best game, stepped up their game and creating some chances of their own. They even managed to have a shot on target through Kinan Esparon but his effort did not trouble West Boyz’ goalkeeper Rico Didon.
Playing in the SFF Cup for the first time, West Boyz kept threatening their opponents but the score remained 0-0. When all present thought that the two teams would go into the changing rooms without scoring a goal, West Boyz had other ideas. Eldon Alexis scored from the penalty spot to give West Boyz the lead just before half time.
In the second half the intensity of the game dropped, but Mavericks FC were still searching for an equaliser. Instead of Mavericks scoring, West Boyz doubled their lead in the 55th minute sealed when forward Ivan Belle broke free form the opposing team’s defence to score his side’s a second goal, propelling West Boyz to the next phase of the SFF Cup.
Speaking to the media, West Boyz player Sammy Auguste said they came all out for a win.
“We put on a good performance even though there were some minor mistakes and we will be working to correct those in time for our next match,” said Auguste who also added that they will be coming out stronger into their next game in the SFF Cup.
On the other hand, Mavericks FC chairman Samuel Gill said this was the first time his players experienced such an atmosphere and as such and his young squad have come a long way.
“They have shown progress during the season and I am satisfied that they have given their best today,” said chairman Gill.
Championship side Real Maldives had a ride in the park on Thursday as they hammered bottom division team Mont Buxton 12-0.
Yesterday, Pointe Larue Bazar Brothers needed extra-time to eliminate Rovers on a 5-2 score. Pointe Larue Bazar Brothers looked like closing the game in normal time until Rovers equalised at 2-2 on the stroke of full time.
In extra-time, Pointe Larue Bazar Brothers scored three more goals to eliminate Rovers on a 5-2 score.
Neil Sirame