Chase, Santa Rosa storm into Massy Distribution U18 final

Arguably the best of Guyana’s youth footballers were on show on Sunday last, as the Massy Distribution Under-18 school football tournament semifinals dished out enrapturing action in a double-header fixture at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue.
Of the now determined finalists, 2025 runners-up Chase’s Academic Foundation were the first to book their spot in this weekend’s grand finale, mauling Charlestown Secondary enroute to the most anticipated game of the tournament.
Chase’s Captain Shaquan David broke the ice early in the seventh minute, with their tally being extended by Malcolm Hendricks by the 11th. Nyron Barrow made it a 3-0 affair in the 27th minute in what was an uncharacteristically slow first half for the Parade Street outfit.

Charlestown’s hopes of a strong comeback were shot just before the break as their captain, Malachi Gowen was handed his marching papers, after back-to-back yellow cards.
Chase took advantage of the 10-man Charlestown, adding four more goals to their tally in the second half. David completed his brace in the 68th minute while goals came off the boots of Mark Glasgow, Onesi Dunn and Jaden Christian to seal the 7-0 victory.
The second fixture – a battle between Santa Rosa Secondary and West Ruimveldt Secondary had fans on the edge of their seats, inclusive of Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal.
West Ruimveldt stunned their opponents early as Donovan Welcome connected to the back of the net with a header in just the third minute. Paul Thomas responded on Santa Rosa’s behalf, levelling the scores in the 21st minute while Andell James gave them the lead by the 30th.

However, Welcome equalised in the 40th minute for a 2-2 halftime score. The second half bore no fruit for either side, plunging the contest into extra time.
Santa Rosa broke out into celebrations in the 98th minute after Shane James capitalised on some chaos in the box to tap the ball home. However, their celebrations were short- lived as Welcome completed his hat-trick in the 100th, levelling the scores once again.
From the penalty spot, West Ruimveldt almost had it in the first five kicks after their keeper pulled off a stunning save on the third. However, they would miss their fifth kick, sending the game into sudden death. There, Santa Rosa prevailed to claim the win 8-7.
The Massy Distribution U18 final is scheduled for the same venue this weekend. The finalists will be competing for a $300,000 grand prize to be allocated in kind to a school project of their choice. Second place will settle for $200,000, and third place will receive $100,000 for the same purpose.