The knockout phase of the 11th annual Milo U-18 Schools Football Tournament kicked off in thrilling fashion, with teams clashing in the Round of 16.
With a place in the quarter-finals at stake, the matches delivered high-scoring affairs, dramatic comebacks, and a few surprises, setting the tone for an electric finish to the tournament.
Chase’s Academic Foundation wasted no time in asserting their dominance at the Education Ground, dismantling Bartica Secondary in a ruthless 7-0 victory.
The prolific Isaiah Ifill netted four times (33’, 43’, 50’, 58’) after goals from Neeiaz Baksh (17’), Tyrell Walcott (22’), and Kemron Pellew (31’) had already put the Berbice-based team comfortably ahead.
The win solidifies Chase’s position as one of the tournament favourites heading into the next round.
Charlestown Secondary goalscorers! From right: Màĺcolm Hendricks, Nicholas Nieuelder and Malakai Gowen
In the following fixture, Charlestown Secondary earned a 3-1 win over New Amsterdam Secondary.
Despite a goal from Feaad Hussein (40’) that temporarily lifted New Amsterdam’s hopes, Charlestown responded confidently through Malcolm Hendricks (18’), Nicholas Nieuelder (30’) and Malakai Gowen (58’) to secure their spot in the quarter-finals.
Dolphin Secondary came out on top in a see-saw battle with Ann’s Grove Secondary, winning 4-2.
After taking the lead through Colin Frank David (29’), Dolphin faced pressure from Ann’s Grove, who struck back with goals from Keevin Austin (55’) and Kennard Halley (60’). But late strikes from Seon Grant (58’), Ezekiel Frank David (62’) and Jomal Williams (65’) sealed the victory for Dolphin, who now look to carry their momentum forward.
Waramuri Secondary edged a dramatic 3-2 thriller against South Ruimveldt Secondary at Queen’s College Ground.
The dynamic duo of Denzell Abrams (15’) and Orwin Abrams (68’), along with Erwin Booker (35’), gave Waramuri a narrow lead that held up despite goals from Carlon Robinson (49’) and Devonte Gaime (64’) for South Ruimveldt.
Waramuri now marches into the quarters with confidence.
Day Two of Round of 16 games opened with a surprise as Three Miles Secondary toppled a spirited Abram Zuil Secondary side 2-1.
Travin Benjamin (35’) and Lebron Mendonca (68’) scored for the winners, while Omar Kendall (50’) netted for AZSS in a losing effort.
The loss ended a promising run for the Essequibo-based team.
West Ruimveldt Secondary delivered a controlled performance in their 2-0 win over Hope Secondary, with early goals from Issey Williams (6’) and Jeremiah Griffith (28’) providing the cushion they needed to see out the match.
In the final Round of 16 clash, President’s College edged Santa Rosa Secondary 1-0, courtesy of a 65th-minute finish from Kenan Petrie.
The game was tight throughout, with both teams trading chances before Petrie found the breakthrough that proved decisive.
The quarter-finals are set to kick off on Sunday, April 13, as the final eight teams battle for a spot in the semi-finals of the 11th annual Milo U-18 Schools Football Tournament.
Waramuri Secondary will face Bushlot Secondary in what promises to be a high-octane affair between two attacking sides.
President’s College will take on West Ruimveldt Secondary, a match that pits discipline against experience.
Charlestown Secondary meet the in-form Chase’s Academic Foundation, who have scored a staggering 34 goals in just four matches, making them the most prolific team in the tournament so far.
Three Miles Secondary square off with Dolphin Secondary, with both teams looking to make a statement on the big stage.
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