THE Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Championship will invade the community of Bartica tomorrow when the 3rd edition of the Street Football competition commences at the Bartica Community Centre.

The zone will feature 16 teams battling for the coveted title and a place in the grand finale on June 16. The opening night features elimination matches, with the respective winners advancing to the group stage pegged for June 15.

The top two finishers from the two groups will progress to the semi-final round. The subsequent winners will then progress to the final, with the losers facing off in the third-place playoff.

Similarly, the four teams that fail to make the semi-final stage will battle in the Guinness Plate Championship. This will be played on the final night.

The eight teams who have earned berths to the opening night are defending champions Disconnection Crew, Goal Raiders, Almanac Kings, former champions Rivers View, Jones Avenue, Falmouth, Potaro Strikers and Mighty Ruler.

According to coordinator Alden Marslowe, “All systems are in place for a wonderful tournament. The teams have really caught on with the street football and everyone has really gotten into it. This is the third year and we have seen tremendous growth. We have had three privately-run street football tournaments earlier and the teams are definitely catching onto the format.”

He further disclosed that the tournament has witnessed a record number of entries which supports the belief that the tournament is growing in popularity and overall interest.

“We have had more teams enter than in previous editions especially from the outlying communities – which is great for the event. The anticipation is there from the public, Bartica is a football community and I expect another great tournament with quality action”, he added.

Similarly, Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Executive stated that everything is geared and ready for another great edition to the phenomenon that is the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Championship.

He anticipates three nights of exciting action, as teams battle for bragging rights and the chance to represent their zone at the coveted National Championship.

The winner of the championship will pocket $400 000 and the winners’ trophy. They will also earn the right to represent the Zone at the National Championship.

On the other hand, the runners-up will collect $150 000 and a trophy. Meanwhile, the third- and fourth-place finishers will walk away with $100 000 and $75 000 respectively and the corresponding accolade. Winners of the Guinness Plate Championship will receive $60 000.

Up to press time, several play-off round matches were underway. The other major sponsor of the event is Colours Boutique.

Play-off round fixtures:

Makouria vs Itaballi

Agatash vs Prison Officers

Courtney Benn Boys vs Potaro United

Walking Boys vs Bad Company

Beacons vs Banks Boys

Ballers vs Karrau

Police vs Skill Kings

Lotto Blast vs Man United