STETHS, Cornwall clash in Francis KO feature

Western Bureau:

The eagerly anticipated quarter-finals of the rural area ISSA/FLOW Ben Francis Cup KO get under way this afternoon with the battle between St Elizabeth Technical (STETHS) and seven-time winners Cornwall College, the highlight of the round.

All four matches will kick off at 2:30 p.m.

The big prize for the semi-finalists is a place in the rich FLOW Super Cup, and the expectation is that there will be end-to-end action in all the matches.

STETHS, who won this title six years in a row from 2010 failed to make it seven last year when they lost in the final to Lennon High on penalties. However, this year, Coach Omar 'Rambo' Wedderburn is keen on reclaiming their title as they are riding high coming into today's game.

Coach Wedderburn believes this game will be a grudge match as they were beaten by Cornwall in last year's daCosta Cup final.

Do-or-die game

"This is a do-or-die game so I don't expect my team to come and hold back, and likewise Cornwall. We are highly motivated and confident though, and we will go out there in search of victory," said Wedderburn.

Cornwall College who missed out on the opportunity to defend their daCosta Cup title are now aiming to finish the season with some form of silverware. Coach Dr Dean Weatherly said they will be coming out with all guns blazing this afternoon despite questions over their recent form as they want to play the FLOW Super Cup and a win today is their only option.

"It's going to be a very tough game considering we'll be playing in their own backyard and the result of last year's daCosta Cup final is probably still fresh in their minds. We know we will have to come with our A-game because we definitely want to play the FLOW Super Cup and also add the 2017 Ben Francis KO to our collection.

All matches will be completed today. If the scores are level at full-time, extra-time of 10 minutes per half will be played followed by penalties if necessary.

Today's games

- Clarendon College vs Manchester High - Juici Beef Field

- Rusea's vs Holmwood - Jarrett Park

- Dinthill Tech vs St. James High - Dinthill Tech

- St Elizabeth Tech vs Cornwall College - STETHS