Glenmuir win first title under new coach

Glenmuir High captured the rural ISSA Ben Francis Knockout title with a convincing 2-0 victory over defending champions Clarendon College in yesterday’s final at STETHS, securing their eighth title in the competition.

Goals from Rojhon Brown in the 29th minute and marksman Orel Miller in second-half added time sealed the title for the Clarendon-based school.

The first half was a cagey affair, with both teams creating opportunities, but Glenmuir broke the deadlock when the lanky Brown rose above the Clarendon College defence to head home from a corner.

Glenmuir took greater control after going ahead, although Clarendon College came close to equalising in the 44th minute when Patrick Page unleashed a powerful effort from about 40 yards that crashed against the crossbar.

Led by Anthony Reid and Justin Hayles, Clarendon College pushed for an equaliser in the second half but found Glenmuir’s defence difficult to breach. Khamari Wray and Steve Hewitt were outstanding at the back, while goalkeeper and captain Justin Murray produced several important saves.

Hayles got a glorious chance to pull one back for his team in the 69th minute after receiving a pass from Reid at close range, but missed a sitter.

Murray again showed his class in the 88th minute, denying substitute Lashaun Harris with an excellent save after the Clarendon College forward unleashed a goal-bound effort.

Glenmuir’s victory was sealed in added time when Miller collected the ball on the edge of the 18-yard box and fired a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Alexander Gardner, sparking celebrations among the Glenmuir players and supporters.

The victory was especially sweet for Glenmuir head coach Ashani Mullings, who was delighted to claim the title in his first season in charge.

“This win is special, being my first year as head coach. Big up to former head coach Andre Peart, as he was the one who brought me into the programme,” Mullings said.

Peart embraced Mullings after the final whistle as the celebrations continued.

“This could be the start of great things. The Ben Francis is behind us now, and we are looking forward to the daCosta Cup and the other trophies up for grabs this season,” he added.

Clarendon College head coach Devon Anderson was disappointed that his team had surrendered the title but admitted that defensive mistakes and missed opportunities proved costly.

“We were behind the eight ball from the first half after a blunder in defence. We got numerous chances to pull one back but missed them, and those missed chances cost us before we gave up a soft goal late,” Anderson said.

“Adjustments will have to be made going forward, but kudos to the guys. They did their best,” he added.