 Picture courtesy of BFA IslandStats.com
Boulevard Blazers have started 2025 with a bang, securing the Shield Trophy in a thrilling 2-1 victory over Somerset Trojans at the Somerset Cricket Club. This hard-fought win marks the third Shield title in the Blazers' history and sees them repeat their earlier league victory over the Trojans at the same venue.
Boulevard Blazers Starting Line-Up: - Deaz Chambers, Ernest Rieko Trott, Zico Stovell (Anthony Williams-Smith 71st), Jah Zion Talbot Thomas, Kenfari Swan, Keedai Astwood, Ijahmon Mallory (Kenyade McQueen 71st), Doreiko Walker, Nico Smith (Khiry Easton 80th), Antione Famous, Darius Cox (Kareem Wint 84th) - Substitutes: - Ras Makal Burgess, Tyrone Oswald Jr., Damani Joell, Rashid Grant, Ysavier Darrell - Somerset Trojans - Kyjuan Symonds, Jadan Ratteray Smith, Michari Tear - Deleon, Jaire Shields (Jadon Simmons 87th), Eijaz Shakir (Enrique Mendes 71st), Paris Robinson, Taj-Rae Outerbridge, Kymani McNeil, Kameron McNeil (Jonathan Brangman 84th), Jaellan Greaves, Kee-Zai Cann (Tahj Wade 71st) - Substitutes: - Isaiah Francis, Kye Bean, Jiriko Powell, Najee Edwards, Coolridge Durham
The match was a tense affair from the start, with both teams vying for early control. Somerset Trojans drew first blood in the 7th minute, with Kee-Zai Cann finding the back of the net to give his side the lead. However, Boulevard Blazers responded with determination, and their efforts were rewarded in the 32nd minute when Keedai Astwood levelled the score. The teams entered the halftime break locked at 1-1, setting the stage for a captivating second half.
The decisive moment came in the 61st minute when Ernest Trott scored what proved to be the winning goal for the Blazers. Despite the Trojans' best efforts to find an equaliser, the Blazers' defence held firm, securing a memorable victory.
This triumph marks a significant achievement for Boulevard Blazers, who have now added a third Shield title to their trophy cabinet. Their ability to overcome a strong Somerset Trojans side and claim victory in a closely contested final speaks volumes about their resilience and determination.
For Somerset Trojans, this defeat will be a disappointment. However, they can take pride in their performance and will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back in their upcoming league fixtures.
This New Year's Day encounter provided a fitting start to the 2025 football calendar in Bermuda, showcasing the passion and excitement that the sport brings to the island. The Boulevard Blazers' victory will be celebrated by their fans, and the team will now look to build on this success as they continue their campaign.
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