In a surprising twist to the ISSA/Wata daCosta Cup, Clarendon College (CC) has secured its place in the Round of 32, despite facing an unusual setback by losing a second game in the opening round—a first in over ten years. The team will now look to defend its title, which they clinched in the previous season.
A total of seven schools have successfully advanced, including first-time qualifiers Maldon High from Zone A, alongside former champions Frome Technical and Rusea’s High from Zone B. St Elizabeth Technical, Denbigh High, and Central High have also earned their spots, solidifying their positions ahead of the next round.
With 30 out of 32 spots filled, anticipation builds for the final two qualifiers, which will be determined on Monday.
Denbigh High made headlines on Saturday by claiming a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Clarendon College, marking their first win against the perennial champions since 2013. This match allowed both Denbigh and Central High to clinch qualifying spots from Zone H, with Central High leading the zone on 19 points after a thrilling 3-2 win against Lennon High. Clarendon College follows closely with 18 points, while Denbigh sits at 16 points, all set for one last showdown on Monday.
Maldon High had an exhilarating encounter against Green Pond High, salvaging a crucial 1-1 draw in their Zone A matchup. Despite trailing until the dying moments, a last-minute volley from substitute Domonique Clarke secured the equalizer, allowing Maldon to edge ahead on goal difference with both teams finishing the round on 19 points.
In Zone B, Stevaughn Spence’s stunning hat trick propelled Frome Technical to a commanding 3-0 win over Anchovy High, pushing them to 23 points. Rusea’s High also qualified from this zone with a narrow 1-0 win over Green Island High, bringing their tally to 20 points, with both teams still having a game in hand.
St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) concluded their Zone E campaign with a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Munro College, who topped the zone with 21 points. STETHS, finishing second with 18 points, now prepares for the challenges ahead in the Round of 32.
Meanwhile, Glenmuir High, who had previously qualified with an impressive streak, faced a rare defeat at the hands of Garvey Maceo High, losing 2-1 and suffering consecutive losses for the first time in over two seasons.
Mannings School completed the first round with an unblemished record, dominating Grange Hill High with a staggering 6-0 scoreline. Gregory Phillips shone brightly, scoring four of the goals, while Keandre Ellis and Zachry Clarke each added one, showcasing the school’s formidable strength heading into the next phase of the competition.
