MIRAMAR – FC Internaxionale and Elite FC will battle for the Miramar Premier Soccer League KO title on Sunday, October 11, 2009 after contrasting wins in the semifinals at Silver Shores Park last Sunday.
Elite FC advanced after overcoming fellow newcomers to the league Africa United in the curtain-raiser. Many expected it to be a one-sided contest with the first place team in the league-Elite and the last place team-Africa United. After dominating the early proceedings and taking a 4-2 lead, it looked like those predictions of an Elite rout would prove correct.
However Africa United fought back to equalize, and had several opportunities to claim an amazing comeback win. After regulation and extra time the game was still tied 4-4 and Elite advanced to the final by holding their nerves in the shootout.
The feature match pitted perennial rivals FC Internaxionale against Unity FC. Internaxionale had knocked Unity out of the competition the previous season and were intent on repeating the feat. Internaxionale’s slick passing game had much the better of the early exchanges as Unity countered with their physical approach. A Ramone Russell goal gave Internaxionale a well-deserved lead at the halftime interval. When the referee sent off Internaxionale midfielder Derono Hyatt minutes into the second half for a seemingly innocuous offense, it appeared Unity had the stroke of luck they needed to get back into the game. However, the Internaxionale defense, expertly marshalled by their two experienced central defenders Anthony Malcolm and Dwight Stephens, held firm and it was Internaxionale that looked the more likely team to score. Internaxionale will head back to the final for a second consecutive season in an attempt to defend its title.
