Brazil’s Barcelona win Good Friends football title

Aug 02, 2008 Sports

Barcelona Football Club of Bon Fim on the frontier of Guyana and Brazil, claimed the coveted prize of $35,000 and a trophy after defeating Rainbow United of Mahdia, Region 8 by a 2 – 1 margin when they faced off in the finale of the knockout football competition sponsored by Good Friends Promotions last Sunday at the St. Ignatius Sports Club and Community Centre ground in Central Rupununi, Region 9.

Beto netted the first goal with a pass from Bronsoo on the left on twenty one minutes of the first half to put the neighboring Brazilian team in the lead.

The second goal came in the 35th minute from main striker Adriano to construct solid and healthy position for the guest players.

However, Rainbow United forward Nigel Ernest cut the advantage one minute before half time to lift the spirits of the Mahdia team who had journeyed hundreds of miles from the mighty Pakaraimas to encounter a fierce battle with their Brazilian counterparts.

Barcelona continued to dominate the early stage of the second half with a firm and blue printed defence line-up, supported with some decisive passing on the forward line by Ronnenson, Beto and Adriano.

A number of raids on the defence of Barcelona from a roving and goal hungry John Joseph, who appeared dangerous occasionally, worked his way skillfully to the goal area but failed to find the nets.

Rainbow United’s custodian Peter Prescott after conceding 2 goals was severely tested on several occasions but kept the attacking Brazilians at bay until the final whistle.

In the opening round of the competition Barcelona edged out a tired looking Central Rupununi Warriors in a penalty shoot-out 3-2, while Rainbow United swept aside Gladiators 2-0.

In the female version of the competition Culvert City defeated St. Ignatius 1-0 in a sudden death affair.

Businesswoman and former Member of Parliament Shirley Melville was invited to declare the competition open after the regional sports officer failed to show up much to the disappointment of the promoters.

The closing ceremony saw some out standing players receiving prizes for their individual performance.

Despite a heavy downpour between the two-day event, co-promoter Ken Grant stated that the programme was a success and extended thanks to all who supported in anyway.