Petersfield retain title in Westmoreland

Paul Clarke, Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

Petersfield are the 2012 Hamilton Estates/Icy Hill Westmoreland Under-17 champions, following their 2-1 extra-time victory over Race Course in the final on Saturday in Savanna-la-Mar. It is their second consecutive title in as many years.

André Vassell gave the Keble Patrick-coached team a 17th-minute lead against the run of play, as Race Course imposed early pressure and dominated the match at the Llandilo playing field.

"Excellent, excellent ... . We did what we came to do and that was to win a second title in consecutive years, and they truly deserve it. Everyone played their part, but special praise to Akeem Whyte and Vassell, who really stood out today," said Patrick.

Vassell capitalised on a defensive error to beat the Race Course goalkeeper to his right and give his team a one-nil lead.

Unlucky

Race Course still looked dangerous and could count themselves unlucky not to score, especially in first-half action.

Race Course failed to score on five clear-cut chances in the first half, even though outplaying Petersfield in all departments.

In the second half, Petersfield made some adjustments and solidified their midfield, but that was not enough, as Race Course would pull level in the 58th minute from a free kick that goalie Karl Suckoo should have handled better.

Suckoo's miserable game got worse when he was red-carded for handling the ball outside his area in extra time.

But Race Course tired quickly during this period and gave up midfield to Petersfield, whose determination paid off when Ackeil Brown netted his team's winning goal in the 105th minute.

"This was a very keenly contested final and I am happy for the way my players came out positive, even as Race Course really turned up the pressure in the first half," Patrick said.