The Super 16 semi-finals delivered high drama on Monday night at the National Training Center in Providence, as defending champions Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Football Club (FC) were dethroned, while Slingerz FC narrowly preserved their unbeaten run, setting up a mouth-watering final on New Year’s Day.
In the opening encounter, Western Tigers FC produced a stunning upset, eliminating the defending champions GDF FC after a tense 5–4 penalty shootout victory following a 1–1 draw at full time.
GDF FC took the lead in the 19th minute through Ian Dooker, asserting their authority early and looking every bit the reigning champions. However, Western Tigers refused to be intimidated and struck back in the 32nd minute when Kevon Woodley found the equaliser.
Despite sustained pressure and several half-chances from both sides, the score remained level at the end of regulation. The match was decided from the penalty spot, where Western Tigers showed remarkable composure to convert all five attempts, edging GDF FC 5–4 and ending the champions’ title defence.
The second semi-final saw Slingerz FC pushed to the brink by a spirited Guyana Police Force FC side. Police FC shocked the crowd just before halftime when Ryan Hackett scored in the 45th minute, placing Slingerz’ unbeaten record under serious threat.
Slingerz responded in the 70th minute through Kemar Beckford, whose equaliser forced the match into extra time. With no further goals, penalties followed, and it was Slingerz goalkeeper Denzil Smith who stole the spotlight.
Smith produced a series of crucial saves in the shootout, while Omari Glasgow, Curtez Kellman, and Bryan Wharton calmly converted their penalties to secure a 3–1 shootout victory over Police FC.
The results set up an intriguing Super 16 final on New Year’s Day, where Western Tigers FC will look to complete a fairy-tale run against a battle-hardened Slingerz FC side chasing yet another trophy.
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