In an exciting Dominica Premier League clash, CCCUL Dublanc FC emerged victorious over Tranquility Beach Middleham United with a 2-1 win in the first game of Gameweek 8. The match, initially scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, 21 April 2023, got underway at 7:00 p.m. with Lester Guiste as the referee.
Both teams entered the game in the top 5 of the table, with 2nd-placed Dublanc having won their last match and 5th-placed Middleham suffering a defeat in their previous encounter. Club captain Briel Thomas replaced Myrric Shillingford in the starting lineup, the only change from the last match.
The game started with both teams having equal possession and attempting to create chances. Middleham took the lead in the 28th minute when Josimar Gustave hit one over a rushing Burkard. Dublanc had an opportunity to equalize when Felix Anselm Jr. got a chance, but his attempt went wide, and the assistant referee deemed it offside.
In the 41st minute, Travist ‘Snake’ Joseph had a chance to level the game after a high-crossed ball from the right by Felix Anselm Jr. his headed attempt beat the keeper but struck the crossbar.
However, Snake was not to be denied, and he scored in the 42nd minute from a flatter cross from Felix Anselm Jr., which only needed the faintest touch to end his goal drought.
Middleham had an opportunity to retake the lead in the 44th minute after a poor attempted clearance from the Dublanc defence. Still, the defenders blocked the shot, leading to a Middleham corner. The first half ended with both teams levelled.
The second half started with both teams working hard to take the lead. McCorney ‘Munie’ Royer put Dublanc in front in the 52nd minute after a header from a beautiful Savio Anselm corner kick delivery, making it two goals in 2 games for him. In the 55th minute, Captain Thomas powerfully headed a perfect corner kick, beating everyone but the crossbar.
The match ended 2-1 in favour of Dublanc, also dubbed the Comeback Kings. Travis Joseph was named the player of the game. With this win, Dublanc will retake the 1st position with Bath Estate and South East to take on We United and East Central, respectively. The game was an entertaining one, and both teams gave their all.
The Dublanc team was impressed with their offensive crosses and displayed good marksmanship with their headed opportunities. Credit also goes out to Anselm, who assisted with beautiful deliveries. Munie’s second goal in many games would suit his form moving forward. Snake’s goal will be an antidote for his confidence as he ends his goalless streak.
