Penalty drama seals championship for Christianburg/Blueberry Hill

The curtain came down on the Linden Town Week Inter-Ward Football Tournament on Friday evening at the Bayroc National Stadium, with Christianburg/Blueberry Hill emerging champions after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over One Mile/Half Mile.
The tournament, presented by the Kashif & Shanghai Organisation in collaboration with the Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA), forms part of the annual Town Week celebrations and enjoys support from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. Over the course of the competition, football fans were treated to exciting matchups, emerging young talent, and spirited community rivalry.

In the third-place playoff, Amelia’s Ward/Bamia secured a convincing 3–1 victory over Silvertown/Canvas City. Jamal Bentick, Kevin Gittens and Trayon Guillaume each found the back of the net for Amelia’s Ward/Bamia, displaying sharp attacking prowess. Silvertown/Canvas City’s lone goal came off the boots of Jermin Adams.
The highlight of the evening was the highly anticipated final between Christianburg/Blueberry Hill and One Mile/Half Mile. One Mile/Half Mile struck first and held a 1–0 advantage at halftime, appearing poised to capture the title. However, Christianburg/Blueberry Hill rallied in the second half to level the score at 1–1, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout.
With tension high and supporters on edge, Christianburg/Blueberry Hill held their nerve from the penalty spot to clinch the championship trophy, a cash prize of $1,000,000, and ultimate bragging rights.
Individual accolades were also handed out to outstanding performers. Jamal Bentick captured the award for Best Celebration After Scoring a Goal, adding flair to his on-field contributions. Sixteen-year-old Trayon Guillaume was recognised as the youngest player to score in the tournament, marking a promising future for the young talent.
Meanwhile, the tournament’s top scorer award went to One Mile/Half Mile captain Marcus Tudor, who netted an impressive six goals over the course of the competition.
As the final whistle blew on this year’s tournament, players and fans alike celebrated not only sporting excellence but also the unity and community spirit that define Linden’s Town Week festivities.