U14 Football: Bermuda Advance After Win
Bermuda advanced to the next round following their impressive 3-1 victory over Bonaire in the 2023 CFU Girls U14 Challenge Series in Antigua.
The Caribbean Football Union report said, “Bermuda advanced to the next round on back of a 3-1 victory over Bonaire when the teams faced off Tuesday in Tier II Group B of the CFU Girls U14 Challenge Series held at the ABFA Technical Centre, Antigua.
“It was a settling of the score for Bermuda after they were defeated by Bonaire a few days prior. The Bermudians noticeably made a difference on the pitch, exhibiting better passing and dribbling skills against Bonaire. They immediately began pressing high in offense, forcing Bonaire to quickly get into defense mode.
“The level of combination build-ups from the girls in pink made the match exciting. However, despite the team’s immaculate performance, the first goal came from Bonaire’s Genisha Piar Cornelia in the 20’ with a beautifully-placed ball outside the 18-yard box and over the head of goalkeeper Nalini Manors.
“The Bermudians continued to press the defense with goal-scoring opportunities from Malayah Curtis-Adams and Jada O’ Brien.
“The second goal of the game came in the 28’ when winger Priya Denbrook broke through the defense and shot a powerful ball into the far post, catching the Bonaire goalkeeper off-guard.
“Midfielder Cayli Dowling displayed an excellent game of football, controlling the middle of park and creating set pieces for her Bermudian teammates. Her work ethic in both offense and defense showed true resilience.
“After a defensive challenge from Bonaire, Bermuda were awarded a penalty in the 44’, and Azae Burrows stepped up to the calling. With composure, she struck the ball to the back of the net and extended her team’s lead.
“As emotions grew high in the match, Bonaire’s Q’ sheanteley Martines received a yellow card in the 49’ while Isabella Prado Klinger received a card in the 70’ for questioning the referee’s decision.
“In the 70’, Bermuda were awarded a free kick, and once again Burrows delivered for her team. She meticulously organized her position over the ball and executed a beautiful kick directly to the goal for the third conversion for her team.
“Bonaire’s Shaimaris Mercera displayed an excellent level of defending for her team throughout the match. Although Bonaire gave it their all, it wasn’t enough to defeat Bermuda a second time around.”
