Arnett win fiery clash ... fractious game against Tivoli overshadows Malcolm's hat-trick

ARNETT Gardens won a feisty encounter against long-time rivals Tivoli Gardens 3-2, in a game that saw four red cards issued in the Red Stripe Premier League at the Edward Seaga Stadium yesterday.

First, Tivoli's defender, Rodico Wellington, and Arnett's substitute, Damari Deacon, were ejected in the 87th minute by referee Courtney Campbell for violent conduct.

Then, immediately after the hot contest, former Jamaica College Manning Cup star Junior Flemmings of Tivoli and Renae Lloyd of Arnett were red-carded for violent conduct resulting from a fight.

In the game, Kemal Malcolm of Arnett Gardens netted a hat-trick to set up victory for the 'Junglists'. Malcolm's goals were scored in the 27th, 36th, and 85th minutes.

Former Reggae boy Jermaine 'Teddy' Johnson (3rd) and Flemmings (51st) scored for the losers.

Both teams were guilty of dirty play during the heated game. The players failed to focus on playing the 'beautiful game' of football.

After the match, the coaches admitted that it was a feisty affair.

Coach of Arnett Gardens Jerome Waite said it was a very physical game.

"Today was a very physical game, but in the end, we outscored Tivoli. Even at the end of the game, red cards continued to fly," Waite said.

With regards to Malcolm's performance, the coach was very pleased.

"Malcolm is on top of his game. He has been setting goals and also scoring," he said.

Tivoli Gardens coach Christopher Bender said that the game was feisty as well and "more emotions than quality".

BIG SETBACK

"This loss is a big setback, as we did not want to lose in the final game of the year. We will be losing Junior (Flemmings) to scholarship next year, so we have to do a lot of work moving forward," he added.

Meanwhile, Arnett's hero, Malcolm, was naturally delighted with his performance.

"When you score a hat-trick in a game like this - a derby - it is always a wonderful feeling. I thank God for making it possible. It was a very big game, and we finished the season on a high with three wins in a row," Malcolm said.

Arnett moved to 32 points after 18 games, while Tivoli remained on 19 points.

Yesterday's results

- Tivoli 2 Arnett 3

- Boys' Town 2 UWI FC 1

- Portmore 1 Humble Lion 0

- FC Reno 0 Rivoli United 0

- Cavalier 4 Waterhouse 4

 

Today's Games

- 8:40 p.m.: Harbour View vs MoBay United - Harbour View Stadium