Eagles, High Stars match abandoned after players scuffle

The opening night of the fifth annual Upper Demerara Football Association (UDFA)/GT Beer Football Championship got off to an unfavorable start as the feature matchup between Eagles and High Stars was abandoned due to fighting.

The clash, which was witnessed by a sizable crowd at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) ground, Linden, erupted on the field in the approximately 84th minute.

The melee involved several players from both sides and forced the officials to abandon the match. It was the second skirmish in the matchup, following a brief scuffle in the first half.

At the time of the premature stoppage, Eagles FC was in control via a 1-0 scoreline. Trenton Lashley converted a penalty kick in the 50th minute.

According to an organizer, a decision will be made shortly following the submission of the referees report.

Meanwhile, Topp XX crushed Kwakwani Strikers by a 3-0 scoreline in the tournament opener.

Following a scoreless opening half, the home side broke the deadlock via an Andre Myers strike in the 49th minute.

Veteran midfielder Travis Watterton doubled their lead compliments of a 63rd minute conversion. The win was then completed, as Ryan Nobel netted.

The nine-team event continues tomorrow at the same venue. Blueberry Hill tackles Amelia’s Ward Panthers at 19:00hrs, while Silver Shattas engages Topp XX at 21:00hrs.

The tournament is being contested in an initial round-robin format. Group-A features Kwakwani, Topp XX and Silver Shattas, while group-B comprises High Stars, Eagles and Botafogo.

On the other hand, group-C consists of Blueberry Hill, Amelia’s Ward Panthers and Netrockers.

The winner of each group and the best overall group runner-up will advance to the semi-final round.

The grand final is set for January 1st. More than $2,000,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs.