THE CLARENDON Elite Football competition ended on Sunday at Glenmuir High School, with the home team securing a 2-0 win over Vere Technical in the final. In the third-place play-off, Denbigh squeezed out a 2-1 victory over Munro College.
Favourites Glenmuir didn’t have things all their way, despite coming off two big wins over Belair and Munro.
Vere, who squeezed into the finals after penalty shoot-out wins over Tivoli Comprehensive and Denbigh, kept pace with their opponents, as the first half ended goalless.
Just two minutes into the second half, Glenmuir went in front from a set play. From a free kick just outside the 18-yard box, Oneil Headley curled a shot past the Vere goalkeeper, who had no chance.
Despite going down 1-0, the Vere players did not drop their heads. Nathaniel Henry in midfield, along with Romaine Brown and Kajay Samuels, kept them in the game, while solid goalkeeping by Ricoli Thomas kept them in touch.
Late in the game, Glenmuir seized the initiative, and the reliable Orane Watson scored from close range to seal the win for the home team.
In the earlier third-place game, Denbigh, playing their best football of the tournament, made their presence felt early with good build-up play. However, it was Munro who took the lead in the 12th minute when Waynian Richards scored with a header from close range, giving his team a 1-0 lead at half-time.
Spurred on by their supporters, Denbigh hit their stride early in the second half and were rewarded in the 46th minute when centre forward Teyo Cross brought his team level.
Just two minutes later, Denbigh took the lead. Cross controlled a ball inside the 18-yard box before relaying it to Gavin Elliot, who tapped it into the goal past the Munro goalkeeper.
Munro tried desperately to get back on even terms, but Denbigh defended well to preserve their one-goal cushion to the end.
Glenmuir walked away with $500,000 for the win, while Vere earned $250,000 for second. Denbigh walked away with $100,000 for third.