In the tournament’s short history, which began in 2013, no team east of Haslington has been able to defeat those situated west of the designated venue, but the young and enterprising Uprising unit that hails from Golden Grove are in an excellent position to break that jinx this evening.
The occasion is the semi-finals and final of the East Coast Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition, which will be played, at the Haslington Tarmac.
Only Plaisance-A, Beterverwagting A&B, and Melanie A&B have had the distinction of being declared champions in the tournament’s history; but that could all change this evening, should Uprising play to their true potential.
Part of this year’s Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition
They face the defending champion Melanie-B in the second semi-final, and this encounter could provide fans with the kind of excitement that is associated with the street format. Many feel Uprising have the tools in their arsenal to register an upset.
However, even if they manage to get past the reigning title holders, they will have to deal with the winner of the Buxton Diamond versus Paradise-A clash, and the survivor of this encounter is another potentially dangerous and worthy opponent.
The two games have the quality to be classified as virtual finals, and fans will definitely witness enthralling end-to-end action.
With another large turnout anticipated, it is now up to the organisers and teams to provide the loyal fans with the atmosphere and on-field excitement to erase the disappointment of Easter Monday’s postponement, which was caused by persistent rain.
While much has been said about Uprising’s chance to shine, the same could be said about Buxton Diamond, which have quietly reached this far in convincing fashion, and no one should be alarmed if they go all the way.
On the other hand, the champs have looked purposeful and resilient in every match, and they, too, could have the final say in this year’s competition.
With the opportunity to make history by becoming the first team to win the tournament back-to-back, that is enough motivation to make them click.
Paradise-A have not made it this far by fluke, and while not many fancy them to win the tournament, that alone could instigate the kind of determination that opposing teams find difficult to repel.
Also carded to take place is the Plate final, which carries a winning prize of $50,000 and a trophy.
However, all eyes will be on the battle for the ultimate prize of $400,000, plus bragging rights and a place in the national playoffs.
The losing finalist will take home $150,000, while third and fourth place finishers will be given $100,000 and $75,000 respectively.
The organisers have extended gratitude to the Guyana Police Force, residents of the East Coast communities, and those from other areas, for their support and discipline throughout the tournament.
All roads should lead to nowhere else but the Haslington Market Tarmac.
