Football: East All-Stars Dominate West 2-0
[Written by Dennis Eve/Anya Thompson]
In an electrifying showcase of young football talent, the East All-Stars secured a 2-0 victory over the West All-Stars in a match that captivated the fans from start to finish.
The highly anticipated showdown featured top players from across the island, with the East team drawing talent from CedarBridge Academy, Saltus, and Somersfield, while the West team showcased players from Berkeley, Warwick Academy, Mount Saint Agnes, and Bermuda Institute.
The game kicked off with a high tempo as both teams showed their intent to entertain the packed crowd. It was the East Allstars, who struck first in the 25th minute. A well-executed corner kick from Dakayo Leverock found Amir Johnson Brangman, who skillfully slotted the ball past the West’s goalkeeper, putting East ahead 1-0 lead.
Top Row: Malik Paynter, Grant Reese, Amir Brangman-Johnson, Curtis Jackson, Jahneel Maria, Isai Gibbons, Kydan Browne, Jahzion Taylor, Matthew Troake, Zachary McGuire, Kameron Mcneil Bottom Row: Naz Daley, Dejon Bean, Dakayo Leverock, Dakari Smith-Davis[c], Xave Smith
As halftime approached, the East extended their lead with a moment of pure brilliance. Midfielder Kydan Browne delivered a perfectly weighted 20-yard pass to Malik Paynter. With remarkable composure, Paynter chipped the ball over the advancing goalkeeper, doubling East’s advantage to 2-0 just before the break.
The second half saw the West All-Stars ramp up their efforts to mount a comeback. Despite creating several close chances and putting pressure on the East’s defense, the West could not find a way past the determined backline. Both teams displayed gritty defending and flashes of brilliance, but the East Allstars held firm to preserve their 2-0 lead until the final whistle.
The game’s standout performers were recognized with MVP honors. Olec Rymon-Lipinski of Mount Saint Agnes for the West and Xave’ Smith of CedarBridge Academy for the East.
Both players delivered exceptional performances, leadership, and determination throughout the game, standing out as leaders for their respective teams.
The game is a true spectacle of high school football and an excellent representation of immense talent across Bermuda’s High Schools. The East All-Stars emerged victorious, celebrating their well-earned win on a night that highlighted the bright future of football on the island.
