At the Carl Ramos Stadium in Dangriga yesterday, Belize City’s FC Belize did what they set out to do, and then some, in handing Dangriga’s Revolutionary Conquerors another 1-nil defeat on their home turf, and thus secure the BPFL/Regent Isurance Cup for the second year in a row.
Last week at Belize City’s MCC, FC Belize defended their home turf with a 1-nil home victory, and only needed a draw in Dangriga to clinch the title.
Conquerors, who needed to win just to force overtime, could only win the championship in regulation time if they managed to win by a two-goal margin. But, judging from FC’s defensive record this season, and the fact that Conquerors would be without the services of their best striker, “Criminal” Castillo (injured), this would be next to impossible.
Both teams had some good chances early, but the first half nevertheless ended scoreless. Early in the second half, Conquerors’ midfield general Norman “Tilliman” Pipersburg was red-carded for a dangerous tackle by referee Gerald Henry, and it was downhill for Conquerors after that. The game became increasingly physical, and a number of yellow cards had to be issued, as frustrated Conquerors’ players began playing “man” more than ball, in the opinion of a knowledgeable observer. FC’s opportunity came in the 79th minute when midfielder Mark “Kelo” Leslie received a pass from Deon McCaulay and outplaced Conquerors’ goalie Woodrow West for the 1-nil lead.
Conquerors’ immediately got a gift, as Kelo was himself red-carded for some infraction during the celebration, so the teams were back to ten men apiece. However, FC’s defence remained strong, and Kelo’s goal held up until the long whistle.
A jubilant Charlie Slusher told reporters after the game that, though he has been thinking of retirement, the championship has given him the desire to come back. So fans can look forward to next season with Charlie in action. And hopefully, Tilliman as well.