GCC, Hikers play to 2-2 draw

Jun 02, 2009 Sports

Devin Hooper

Alan Fernandes

Robert France

Shaquelle Assanah

An Alan Fernandes goal, three minutes from full time salvaged a draw for GCC in their Farfan & Mendes Men’s First Division match against Hikers yesterday at the GCC ground.
The game ended in a 2-2 draw with Devin Hooper’s 23rd minute strike and a goal apiece from Hikers Robert France (33) and junior player Shaquelle Assanah completing the match tally.

Fresh off their win in the final of the Mr. Toppers Tournament against Hikers recently, GCC, the only team with points in the competition took the lead through Hooper, who intercepted a clearance and dribbled one player before unleashing a powerful shot past the Hikers goalkeeper.
That was after France had missed an easy chance, spewing his effort just outside the right upright with goalkeeper Michael Xavier completely beaten.

The home team enjoyed a 1-0 lead at the break, but relinquished that advantage three minutes after the resumption when the ever lurking France nonchalantly tapped in a pass from the left flank that eluded two defenders.
The much talked about Assanah, who came on as a substitute, made his impact right away with some threatening runs down the wing showing why he is a future player to watch.
He eventually reached onto a deflection off the stick of Shane Samuels and pushed his shot past Xavier who had no chance.

GCC attacked with fervour with Orland Semple, the Fernandes brothers (Alan & Phillip) and Hooper mounting several raids in the opposition area, but each time stout defending by Jerazeno Bell, playing in the unaccustomed position at the back and Robert Fernandes thwarted their efforts.
However, Alan Fernandes finally cracked the wall, finding himself behind the fortress and blasting a shot past the hapless Hikers goalkeeper.

GCC's Shad Fernandes with ball attempts to dribble past two Hikers defenders during an offensive raid yesterday.

Minutes later the final whistle sounded, but not before Semple was shown the red card by umpire Jonathan Yearwood for direct abuse of the official.
The tournament continues on Friday with Old Fort tackling Hikers, at the same venue.