Beacons reign supreme in Bartica Guinness Greatest of the Street tourney
Beacons FC edged out Police FC in a keenly contested final game of the 2019 Guinness “Greatest of the Street” championships in Bartica on Sunday, and are now the official holders of the title and accompanying bragging rights.
The night began at the Bartica Community Centre Basketball Court with the “Plate” semi-finals being played, in which Goal Raiders and Rivers View defeated Prison Officers and Potaro United respectively to advance to the Plate Final, wherein they contested for ownership of the $60,000 on offer.
The victorious Beacons team
The Guinness Championship Semi-Finals then followed, with Police defeating Mighty Ruler following a draw in regulation time and kicks from the penalty mark.
Walking Boyz then tried unsuccessfully to waltz into the finals, losing 3 goals to 1 against Bartica powerhouse Beacons.
In the respective finals, Goal Raiders defeated Rivers View 1-nil to take the Plate Prize, while a fast-paced championship final saw Beacons FC overcoming the energetic Police FC by 1 goal to nil.
In the end, Goal Raiders pocketed the $60,000 for their win in the Plate Finals. Beacons were also crowned new champions, and pocketed a total of $400,000; while runners-up Police received $150,000.
In an invited comment, Coordinator of the Bartica leg of the event, Alden Marslowe, said: “This tournament never fails to bring the residents of Bartica together; and that was evident in the great numbers that came out to view the games and create a party atmosphere at the venue. The community of Bartica is a major supporter of Banks DIH Ltd; and so, to have the company return to give back in such a meaningful was is always well received. Bartica Football Leagues continue to keep pace with seniors, under 17 and under 15.”
With Beacons now winning the competition, they will represent the zone at the National Championships.
This tournament was the third staging of the Guinness Greatest of the Street Football in Bartica. Major sponsors of this event were Banks DIH Limited under their Guinness Brand, and Colours Boutique.
