Queen’s Park Rangers held on to the National U19 Tournament title with a convincing 6-1 win over Happy Hill FC at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium on Thursday 16th December 2021. This was the first final featuring two St. George parish teams in many years and Happy Hill FC’s first time in a youth final.
The unstoppable Benjamin Ettienne who recently starred in the National U20 Boys team scored four goals for his team in the 16th, 44th, 51st and 57th minutes. Goals were also scored by QPR’s Shoni Mitchell in the 22nd minute and Jaden Thomas in the 41st minute. The lone response from Happy Hill FC came from Divonte Baptiste in the 29th minute from a free kick just outside the 18-yard box.
In the 3rd place playoff, Paradise FC International dominated Hurricanes SC to win 4-0. All match goals came in the first half, with a brace from Kayne Mark in the 19th and 31st minutes, a goal from Dante Williams in the 34th minute and the final one from Shonnil Belfon in 45+2.
At the closing ceremony, Queen’s Park Rangers’ Benjamin Ettienne walked away with the Golden Boots and Most Valuable Player titles while Trishawn Thomas was awarded the Golden Gloves. Winning coach Randy Boca was also recognized.
Recapping the Tournament, Grenada Football Association (GFA) Technical Director Jerry Alexis says the talent displayed in the tournament was exceptional. He further stated, “This tournament is crucial in identifying and nurturing young players who will eventually represent Grenada for the National Senior Men’s Team.”
The GFA looks forward to working with the youth players in honing their talents and thanked its sponsors for their unwavering support.
