It’s a JC, STATHS Walker Cup final

Jamaica College (JC) and St Andrew Technical (STATHS) will renew their rivalry as both booked their spots in the final of the 2023 ISSA/Digicel Walker Cup competition following comfortable semi-final wins yesterday at the Stadium East field.

In the day’s opening match, STATHS, who are seeking their first Walker Cup title, steamrolled Wolmer’s Boys 3-0 as they dominated the lion’s share of ball possession and goal- scoring opportunities. STATHS made their intentions known from very early as they registered their first goal in the 10th minute courtesy of a brilliant right-footed strike from Nickoy Gayle. Nine minutes later, STATHS would double their lead as captain Richard Livingston converted a penalty kick. As STATHS continued their offensive onslaught, Livingston was again in the thick of things as he was denied by the crossbar in the 28th minute. The Phillip Williams-coached team would finally secure their spot in the final as substitute Ajetai Marshall pounced upon a mishandled ball from Wolmer’s custodian Jelani Usim to slam home his chance in the 79th minute.

Williams said reaching the final gives his team a glorious chance to bring Walker Cup success to the school for the first time.

“The boys came out and gave a good account of themselves. Wolmer’s asked some questions of us but we answered those questions. We’re embracing it as it’s a chance to bring a title to STATHS, and it’s also a chance to exhibit the brand of football that we play, and those are the platforms that we want to be on,” he stated.

Jerome Waite, head coach of Wolmer’s, said Wolmer’s will now have to regroup for next season.

“We will have to refocus on the new generation. We have some quality youngsters, and it will take time for their development,” Waite explained.

Also registering a commanding victory on the day were three-time champions JC, who easily brushed aside Excelsior High 3-0. JC broke the deadlock in the 27th minute as Jayd Johnson was left unmarked in the box and made full use of it converting from close range. That lead would double by the 38th minute as Jamoy Dennis managed to scramble his effort across the line. Johnson registered his second of the evening in the 57th minute on the back of a right-footed strike, leaving the Excelsior team looking at each other.

Keon Broderick, head coach of Excelsior, stated that he was disappointed with how his team performed in the second half of the game.

“I’m a little disappointed in how we executed in the game especially in the second half,” he shared.

Davion Ferguson, head coach of JC, explained that he is already eyeing the clash with STATHS.

“STATHS are worthy opponents. We’ve had our battles over the years, and I know that this one will also be another big battle,” Ferguson said.

orane.buchanan@gleanerjm.com

Yesterday’s results:

STATHS 3-0 Wolmer’s

Excelsior 0-3 Jamaica College