Rangers tournament top dogs
THE Rangers U13 side were crowned the Cleary Park Build It Youth Soccer tournament champions after a nail-biting penalty shootout against Park United at the weekend.
Both teams fought hard to take the win in normal time, but the defence on each side was resolute in denying their opponents.
A total of 16 teams participated in the Youth Day tournament to battle it out for the honours.
Eighteen goals were scored in the opening round. Apex United, Blackpool, Bloom Callies, Fairview Rovers, Park United and Rangers 1 all advanced to the second round.
Ramblers and Lads played out a 1-1 draw, but Ramblers held their nerve to claim a 3-2 victory via a penalty shoot-out.
The match between Stardrift and Lakeshire was not played, with Stardrift gaining a walkover to the next round.
In round two, Bloom Callies made their intentions clear with a 2-0 victory over Fairview Rovers, while Park United also booked their spot in the last four with a 1-0 win over Blackpool.
Eventual champions Rangers advanced to the last four, thanks to a 2-1 win over Apex United, while Stardrift advanced after a 3-2 penalty shoot-out win against Ramblers.
The semifinals did not live up to their hype because only two goals were scored.
Rangers overcame Stardrift 1-0, while Park United beat Bloom Callies by the same margin.
The final was closely contested, with both teams having chances to clinch the victory. In the end Rangers came out on top with a 4-3 victory.
Rangers’ Dermain Golden was named best player and received a trophy, match ball and designer bag. The winners received a full team kit, trophies and kit bags.