THE Lens Craft Optical-sponsored East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-13 league recommenced yesterday at the Grove Community Centre ground with the home team going down to Mocha Champs 1-3.

It was Mocha’s first win of the competition having previously taken full points from a walkover from Craig while drawing with Kuru Kururu Warriors and losing to Agricola. The Mocha boys were the dominant side despite playing two short but were the bigger of the two teams in terms of size.

It was the size of the Mocha players that prompted a few of the Grove Hi Tech supporters to make queries at halftime about some of the Mocha players. Mocha led 1-0 following an own goal from Grove’s Tyrese Jones in the 3rd minute of play.

Mocha were the more dominant of the two sides and clearly displayed a high level of fitness and awareness, following the extended break which was partially due to the prolonged rainy season which made grounds unplayable.

The competition was scheduled to restart one week earlier at the Mocha ground but did not as the ground was not suitable.

Following the half-time break, the Grove players were told not to take the field of play for the restart since a few supporters felt that some Mocha players were overage. The players were adhering to the ill-advice of the few misguided fans until the EBFA stepped in and told the players that they must continue the game and lodge an official protest after.

Play resumed as the youngsters were eager to play following the long break. Mocha went on to hit the back of the nets on two more occasions, Gible Stephens from the penalty spot following a handled ball in the 40th minute and Shaquille Cox in the 56thy minute.

Grove did create a few chances but were not able to handle the more nimble and robust Mocha players. The home team pulled one back in the 48th minute also from the penalty spot, Rasheed Evans doing the honours.

The EBFA is awaiting an official protest from the Executive of Grove Hi Tech. Meanwhile, competition will continue on Saturday with a triple-header, Agricola Red Triangle will come up against Kuru Kururu Warriors from 10:00hrs, Diamond United will oppose Craig while Herstelling Raiders will face Mocha Champs.

Latest Points Standings
Club                                        Played Won    Lost     Draw  GF       GA      GD      Points
Herstelling Raiders                 4          3          1          0          8          2          6          9
Grove Hi Tech                       5          3          2          0          10        4          6          9
Mocha Champs                     4          2          1          1          8          9          -1         7
Agricola Red Triangle             3          2          1          0          13        2          11        6
Diamond United                     4          2          2          0          9          1          8          6
Kuru Kururu Warriors             3          0          2          1          3          8          -5         1
Craig                                       3          0          3          0          0          10        -7         0