SHOW Stoppers were crowned champions of the Stag Beer and Slingerz FC 2nd Annual West Side Inter-village 5-a-side football tournament after thumping Admiral 5-1 in the final on Sunday night at Vergenoegen Rice Mill Tarmac, East Bank Essequibo.  

Though Show Stoppers won handsomely, the game was keenly contested with both teams demonstrating a decent level of skills much to the delight of the large crowd.

Marvan Josiah put Show Stoppers ahead in the fourth minute before Dexroy Adams doubled the advantage three minutes later. Josiah, who was named the tournament’s most valuable player stretched the lead with his second in the 9th minute after collecting a neat pass from Adams from the right side of the box.

Admiral did produce some brilliant moments but Show Stoppers did well to deny them. However, Deon Kennedy slotted home in the 18th minute to give Show Stoppers a 4-0 lead at halftime.

Admiral improved tremendously after the interval and Devon Johnson gave them some hope with a 25th minute strike, before Simon Emmanuel netted in the 29th to maintain the huge gap.

Admiral increased their pace somewhat in the closing stages, but Show Stoppers managed to keep them at bay until the final whistle by the referee sparked wild celebrations among the players and fans.

Show Stoppers beat Samaroo Dam 3-1 in their semi-final encounter. Anthony Sancho netted in the 15th and 37th minutes while Marlon Josiah scored in the 25th minute for the winners. Kevin Edghill slotted home for Samaroo Dam in the 33rd.

The second semi-final saw Admiral thump Vega Champs 4-0, with goals from Lexroy Mainfigo (9th), Rolex Smith (13), Quasi Weeks (19) and Devon Johnson (32nd). Vega Champs took third place with a 2-1 victory over Samaroo Dam.

The tournament was sponsored by Golf Motor Oil, Ansa McAl, First Choice Water, Archie Sand and Store Depot and Double Day Hotel.

In an invited comment, promoter Colin Aaron said he was pleased with the level of discipline and skills exhibited by the players. He added the organising committee is keen in promoting the sport in the area.