“Spider Cup” set to kickoff

The Gros Islet Football League (GIFL) National Lotteries Authority District Representative Invitational Football Tournament, better known as the Spider Cup, kicks off on tomorrow (Sunday) evening on the Gros Islet playing field.

Details of the competition were announced following a recent press launch at the Gros Islet Municipal Building. Officials in attendance included President of the GIFL, Shayne Paul; Vice President of the GIFL and President of the Northern Zone under the St Lucia Football Association Inc banner, Charde Desir; and Second Vice President of the GIFL, Marsha Smith. Also in attendance were presidents of the various affiliated teams.

District Representative Lenard Montoute, who is a key sponsor and after whom the tournament (Spider Cup) is named, was unable to attend. Desir, who referred to the tournament as being the most important for the Gros Islet affiliates, began by acknowledging last year’s champions Monchy FC and runners-up (finalists) GMC United. “The Spider Cup is an important senior tournament for our players, and everybody looks forward to such a tournament,” said Desir. “It brings out the best from all players in the Gros Islet District. Over the years, we have encouraged the various teams to have a youth team, and GMC and Northern United have had youth teams in the tournament.

Paul announced that this year’s Spider Cup has three components: the senior tournament, under-11 launch and the female aspect, which is a one-day tournament. He said: “Our District Representative has continued to pledge his commitment towards the development of football in his own constituency. That, I can assure, has augured well for our calendar of activities as a league.” He mentioned there was talk on the street that this tournament began too late, “but better late than never,” said the president.

Paul is delighted to have two teams come on board this year. He gave a hearty welcome to Valley Soccer and Flames FC. Following formal proceedings the 10 teams in this year’s tournament were placed in two groups of five, with the winner of last year’s tournament, Monchy FC, heading Group A, and finalists GMC heading Group B. 

Group A consists of Monchy FC, Northern Young Stars, Flames United, Twist Dominators FC and Police.

Group B is KFC, GMC United, Valley Soccer, Mango Moon GMC, Northern United and Veterans.

The first place team will receive $3,000; second place, $1,500; and third place $1,000. Additionally, in the finals, $20 will be awarded per goal, and other prizes will be awarded.