Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition...Melanie ‘A’ new champions of the East Coast; Melanie ‘B’ finishes third

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition…Melanie ‘A’ new champions of the East Coast; Melanie ‘B’ finishes third

May 27, 2014 Sports

A capacity crowd including fans who trekked from Georgetown was on hand to witness a riveting conclusion to the East Coast Zone of the Banks DIH-sponsored Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Futsal Competition played, at the

East Coast Branch Guinness Supervisor Clive Pellew (2nd right) hands over the winning trophy and monetary prize to Melanie ‘A’ Captain Dwight Peters in the presence of Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste (2nd left), Tournament Co-ordinator Troy Mendonca (right) and teammates Sunday evening.

Haslington Market Square.
The large turnout clearly emphasised that the outdoor futsal version, especially under the Guinness brand remains a growing phenomenon embraced by fans. National striker Dwight Peters appearing for Melanie ‘A’ set the championship game alight as early as the 2nd minute of play when he pivoted skillfully from an in-bound pass and fired a bullet-like shot past two defenders into the goal.
It caused euphoric celebrations among the team’s supporters, but a stunning surprise to their opponents BV ‘B’ and their band of supporters. Riding on the wave of momentum, Melanie ‘A’ continued to create opportunities to score, but equally impressive was the defending of BV ‘B’ as they held on dearly and did not concede another goal when the break came.
After the resumption, BV ‘B’ came alive and threatened to level the proceedings, but just as they had done to deny Melanie ‘A’ in the first period, the tables were turned as the latter demonstrated their own proficiency in defence.
As the time ticked away supporters of both teams became vociferous, one urging protection of the lead, while the other shouted words of advice as their team searched for the equaliser. However, when the final whistle sounded Melanie ‘A’ had managed to protect their slim lead and in effect earned $300,000 for their efforts.
BV ‘B’ did not leave empty-handed and walked away with $150,000. In the third place playoff, Melanie ‘B’ gave the village a positive start to the night when they held off a stubborn Victoria Church Yard United 1-0.
Rondell Assanah’s 14th minute strike was enough to ensure the win and $100,000, while Church Yard United pocketed $50,000. Speaking after the presentation ceremony, Brand Manager of Guinness Lee Baptiste said he was extremely encouraged by the level of play and the turnout of fans during all three nights of competition, adding that the Company will continue to host the event.
Baptiste disclosed that the national finals to select Guyana’s representative at the Caribbean Tournament will be staged over two days, beginning Saturday and end the following day at a venue that will be confirmed sometime today.
In the night’s full results: Third Place