 The Clyde Best Centre of Excellence Field was rocking as Saltus Grammar School clinched the Bermuda School Sports Federation’s Under 16 Boys Six-a-Side Tournament title in a nail-biting final against The Berkeley Institute Green. The atmosphere was electric, with passionate fans from both sides creating a cauldron of noise and excitement.
Saltus, fueled by a desire for redemption after their first-round scare against Warwick Academy, came out firing on all cylinders. Saejhor Dent, a midfield maestro with a knack for finding the net, unleashed a rocket of a shot that whizzed past the Berkeley keeper to open the scoring. The Saltus supporters erupted in a frenzy of cheers, but Berkeley, known for their resilience, refused to back down.
The game flowed back and forth with both teams creating chances. Then, in a moment of brilliance, Curtis Jackson Jr., Saltus's aerial threat, soared above the defense to meet a perfectly delivered cross with a powerful header that sent the ball crashing into the back of the net. 2-0 Saltus, and the momentum was firmly in their favor.
But Berkeley, with their backs against the wall, dug deep and found a lifeline. Jeon Wolfe, their star striker, showcased his clinical finishing ability with a well-taken goal that breathed new life into the contest. The tension was palpable as Berkeley pressed for an equalizer, but the Saltus defense held firm, repelling wave after wave of attack.
The road to the final was anything but smooth for Saltus. They had to overcome a two-goal deficit against Warwick Academy in a thrilling quarterfinal clash. Zydon Lightbourne Furbert, Warwick's danger man, had put his team in the driver's seat with a brace. But Saltus, spurred on by their captain's rallying cry, staged a remarkable comeback. Jackson Jr. once again proved to be the hero, bagging a brace, while Malik Paynter sealed the deal with the winning goal.
The other semi-final saw Berkeley Green emerge triumphant after a dramatic penalty shootout against Mount Saint Agnes Academy. The game ended 1-1, with Noah Gift's opener for MSA canceled out by a late equalizer from Deacon Wade. The tension was almost unbearable as the shootout went on and on, with both teams displaying nerves of steel. Finally, after 15 rounds of penalties, Berkeley Green prevailed, setting up the final showdown with Saltus.
This tournament was a showcase of the incredible talent and passion for football within Bermuda's schools. Congratulations to Saltus Grammar School for their well-deserved victory, and to all the teams for putting on a fantastic display of sportsmanship and skill.
Bermuda School Sports Federation’s 2024 Senior School Under 16 Boys Six-a-Side Tournament Results
Pool - A
Berkeley Green - 2
Saltus - 2
Saltus - 5
MSA - 1
Berkeley Green - 7
MSA - 1
Pool B
Warwick Academy - 2
CedarBridge Academy - 2
CedarBridge Academy - 3
Berkeley Gold - 2
Berkeley Gold - 2
Warwick Academy - 1
Knock-Out Round
MSA - 2
Berkeley Gold - 1
Saltus - 3
Warwick Academy -2
Semi-Finals
Saltus - 2
CedarBridge Academy - 0
Berkeley Green - 1 (14-13 pks)
MSA - 1
Final
Saltus -2
Berkeley Green - 1
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