GFF-KFC Elite League Cup: GDF, Western Tigers set up final date this Sunday
Western Tigers FC and the Guyana Defence Force FC have both secured thrilling victories in matches played at the Eve Leary Ground in Kingston, Georgetown to set the stage for their meeting in an electrifying December 3 final in the Guyana Football Federation-KFC Elite League Cup.
On Sunday, November 26, Western Tigers dominated Buxton United 6-0, and Guyana Defence Force defeated Guyana Police Force 7-2. On Sunday, December 3, fans will witness the ultimate victor claiming the top prize: cash worth $1.5 million, while the runner-up would secure the $1 million second-place reward in the league’s epic final showdown.
They will also see who gets the $500,000 third prize and who gets the $250,000 fourth prize after the match between Guyana Police Force and Buxton United.
A look at the encounter between GDF FC (red) and GPF FC
In last Sunday’s first semi-final, Western Tigers played decisively, showing their determination to secure a spot in the final and leaving no room for uncertainty. Jermaine Beckles initiated the scoring with a remarkable goal at the 23rd minute, followed by a hat-trick from Randolph Wagner through goals scored in the 47th, 49th, and 79th minutes.
Daniel Wilson added another in the 63rd minute, and Andrew Murray sealed it with one in the 90+1 minute.
The second semi-final game on Sunday saw the Guyana Defence Force employing a strong attacking strategy against their GPF opponents.
Western Tigers (blue) got the better of Buxton Stars
Guyana Police Force striker Travis Henry notched the opening goal, setting the pace for the game; but the GDF responded with a Colin Nelson strike just five minutes later, followed by a goal from Chris Macey in the 28th minute.
The Police team levelled the score with Adrian Arron’s goal in the 36th minute, but an unfortunate own goal by Trevon Lythcott in the 65th minute swung the advantage back to the Guyana Defence Force, causing them to lead the score 3-2.
The floodgates were then opened, allowing goals from Abumuchi Benjamin in the 76th minute, Delroy Fraser in the 83rd and 84th minutes, and Ian Dooker in the 87th minute. Thus the GDF secured a commanding 7-2 victory.
The Guyana Defence Force had an impeccable journey to the finals, claiming an unbeaten run with five wins and a total of 15 points in Group A. Meanwhile, in Group B, the Western Tigers claimed the top spot on the table after amassing 12 points from four wins and one loss.
In Group A, alongside the primary teams, were Santos, Fruta Conquerors and Milerock; while the other teams in Group B were Den Amstel, Victoria Kings and Ann’s Grove.
As the GFF gears up for the upcoming Elite League Season Six, set to commence in February 2024, GFF President Wayne Forde has extended congratulations to all teams for showcasing a high level of competitive football in recent weeks.
“The GFF-KFC Elite League Cup showcased the pinnacle of competition and talent among Guyana’s top clubs. We eagerly anticipate the start of Season Six of the Elite League, another thrilling chapter in our football journey,” he declared.
