Howard Walker, Staff Reporter
Excelsior High's Yolande Hamilton (left) changes direction as she attempts to retrieve the ball ahead of St. Andrew's Trudy-Ann Martel in action from the Jamaica Hockey Federation (JHF)/Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association Under-19 schoolgirls final at the Mona Astro Turf yesterday. Hamilton scored the deciding goal for Excelsior High to win 1-0. - RICARDO MAKYN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
FAVOURTIES EXCELSIOR High captured the Jamaica Hockey Federation (JHF)/Inter Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA) Under-19 schoolgirls title with a hard fought 1-0 win over St. Andrew High at the Mona Astro Turf yesterday.
Yolande Hamilton's strike in the 20th minute was enough to give Excelsior their first lien on the Under-19 crown, following last year's Under-16 success.
Wolmer's High, courtesy of Adrianna Christian, Shanae Armstrong and Kisha Gayle Walker, blanked Alpha Academy 3-0 for third-place.
QUICK START
In the final, Excelsior, last year's beaten finalist, got off to a quick start through Tashanna Thompson, Sasha-Gayle Thomas, Jodi-Ann Cunningham and Yolande Hamilton and dominated the first half before deservedly taking the lead in the 20th minute.
St. Andrew slowly got going and in the second half they pressed Excelsior all the way, looking for that elusive equaliser. But the unbeaten Excelsior held their nerves and the lead to secure their title, as their small band of supporters jumped for joy.
Winning coach Carol Hibbert said she is very thankful but had no doubts that her team would have won.
"I had no doubts that my team would have pulled it off. It was less than what we were used to scoring, but I am very thankful just the same," said Hibbert.
"We have a good blend of footballers and hockey players in our programme and that's an advantage for us," she added.
St, Andrew High were reaching the final for the first time in 20 years but fell just short in the end.
Dr. Michelle Holt, coach of her alma mater St. Andrew, said she was nevertheless proud of her players.
"I thought it was a good game and the goal from a bouncing ball was unfortunate for us, but we had chances and we are very proud of the team."
The outstanding Patrice Clarke of Excelsior was voted Most Valuable Player, with her teammate Shanika Shaw winning the best goalkeeper award.
The Wolmer's pair of Adrianna Christian and Shanae Armstrong copped the leading goalscorer award with six goals.
