The 2019 East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Senior League sponsored by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) kicked off on Monday at the GFF National Training Centre following a colourful march-past of teams, witnessed by Director of Sport, Christopher Jones; GFF boss Wayne Forde and EBFA President Franklin Wilson among others.
The lone match contested saw Grove Hi Tech defeating a determined Kuru Kururu Warriors 6-3 to set the tone for what is anticipated to be an exciting league which 11 clubs would be contesting.
Darren Mc Pherson led Grove to victory with a double (17th and 37th minutes) with one apiece from Jonathan Bailey (19th); Delroy Dodson (25th); Nicholai Matthews (43rd) and Marvin Squires (46th).
Kuru Kururu Warriors got their goals through Christopher Alleyne who netted an own goal in the 22nd minute with Joseph and Kevon Walker finding the back of the net in the 87th and 91st minute, respectively.
Prior to the match, taking part in the march-past were the two above-named clubs, Herstelling Raiders, Diamond United, Friendship All Stars, Timehri Panthers, Samatta Point/Kaneville and Agricola Red Triangle. The referees who would be in charge of matches were also part of the march-past; the best dressed team, selected by Forde and Jones, were Timehri Panthers and they were rewarded with a trophy.
Wilson, in brief remarks, expressed gratitude to Forde and the GFF for fulfilling his commitment to sponsor the Senior League. He cautioned the players to be at their best and be disciplined on and off the field of play.
Jones, in his remarks, congratulated the EBFA and GFF for the work they have been collectively engaged in towards the development of youths along the East Bank and Linden-Soesdyke Highway corridor.
GFF President Forde, in the feature remarks, stated that it was a moment of personal pride for him and his executive to witness what was unfolding before his eyes.
He challenged the players to commit themselves to being the best possible first and foremost and the best possible human being.
Forde also informed that the GFF would be announcing at its Congress on May 25 next, plans for what would be the biggest tournament in the nation’s history, the Federation Cup, which would be held to commemorate Guyana’s football association’s 117th anniversary as an organised body.
: Part of the action on opening day of the EBFA Senior League
