A William S. Reyes Elementary School 1 player tries to outmaneuver a defender during an elementary school division game of the PSS-NMIFA Interscholastic Soccer League SY 24-25 at the NMI Soccer Training Center in Koblerville.
WILLIAM S. Reyes Elementary School 1 and Garapan Elementary School 1 have secured their spots in the elementary school division finale of the PSS-NMIFA Interscholastic Soccer League SY 24-25.
The two teams emerged victorious against their respective opponents in the semifinal matches at the NMI Soccer Training Center on Friday.
WSR 1 had a very tough game, but, as the dust settled, they came out on top against Saipan International School, 2-1.
The goals came in early with SIS drawing first blood in the very first minute courtesy of Guy Pudney. However, it did not take long for WSR 1 to retaliate as Ryan Ichihara connected the team’s first goal eight minutes later for the first deadlock of the match, 1-1.
WSR 1 continued to ride the momentum and used it to keep the pressure going, eventually creating an opening at the 12th minute mark as Raynold Saka capitalized with a quick shot to find the back of the net to give WSR 1 the lead for the first time, 2-1.
Although there was still plenty of time left, neither team could get a clear shot, allowing WSR 1 to run away with the victory.
The second match of the day was claimed by GES 1 as they silenced their siblings, GES 2, 3-0.
At first, both teams played as equals with neither scoring a goal in the first half.
Coming out of the halftime break, GES 1 scored their first goal at the 25th minute mark thanks to Even Poole.
GES 2 tried to protect their turf with tighter coverage, but GES 1 gradually wore them down and took advantage of their already tired opponents.
Jacob Borja scored at the 41st mark followed by another goal a minute later by Keanu Pangelinan to further extend the deficit, 3-0.
With barely any time left, GES 2 was forced to accept defeat.
The title match between WSR 1 and GES 1 is set for Oct. 17 at 5:30 p.m. while the battle for 3rd place between SIS and GES 2 starts at 4 p.m.
