The Big Four clash on Friday night

THURSDAY MAY 29, 2008, Gros-Islet, Saint Lucia - The mouthwatering semi-

final lineup for the 2008 I.G.Y. Rodney Bay Marina/Guinness-sponsored

Blackheart/Kashif and Shanghai Knockout Football Tournament is now complete.

The lineup was completed on Wednesday night, as the last two quarterfinal

matches were played at the Beausejour Cricket Ground.

In the evening’s opening match, the Castries All Stars had a two goals to nil

victory over Vieux-Fort South. The goals from experienced VSADC players Gilroy

Mitchell in the 31st minute, a wonderfully struck free-kick from about 30 yards,

and  a clinical finish from Barnette Bledman in the 49th minute, giving the

Castries All Stars victory and a place in the semi-finals of tournament.

Two players were shown red cards in the encounter, namely Berhane Alexander

of Vieux-Fort South and Shawn Kirton of the Castries All Stars.

In the second match of the evening two-time champions Mabouya Valley had a

three one come from behind victory over Vieux-Forth North to book their place in

the semi-finals.

Vieux-Fort North opened the scoring when their inspirational captain Sheldon

Emmanuel converted in the 6th minute of the encounter, after pouncing on a

near perfect pass, and beating the custodian with a powerful shot.

However, goals from Vernus Abbott in the 13th minute, Camian Hanson in the

20th minute, and Hanif Dolor in the 61st gave Mabouya Valley victory.

Notwithstanding, Mabouya Valley had the opportunity to put the game beyond

the reach of Vieux-Fort north in the first half, but Dolor missed out on two scoring

chances, while his teammates also failed to convert the chances created.

The semifinals of the Tournament will be played tomorrow evening Friday May

30, 2008 at the Beausejour Cricket Ground.

From 6.00 p.m., Mabouya Valley takes on the Castries All-Stars while from 8.00

p.m., the defending champions Dennery comes up against Canaries in a clash

many are anxiously looking forward to.

The Grand Final is now scheduled for Saturday June 7th at the Beausejour

Cricket Ground, with the organizers set to announce the commence times.