Russia FC scored a 2-0 win over fellow Zone A contenders Savannah FC in the first match of the Captain’s Bakery Westmoreland Major League 2008-2009 season at the Frome Sport Complex in Savannah-La-Mar last Sunday.

Craig Williams’ 21st minute penalty shot the beaten finalists in last year’s competition into the lead and Gregory James sealed the issue in the 40th minute.

Earlier, nine of the twelve participating teams lined up for the dress parade (won by Russia) and opening ceremony which saw Wayne Sultor, Financial Controller of The Captain’s Bakery representing sponsor, Jamaica Football Federation President Captain Horace Burrell.

“The sponsorship is in the sum of $1.2 million will cover referee fees, contribution toward uniforms, and prizes,” said Sultor, adding that 50 footballs will also be distributed among the teams.

This is the fourth consecutive year that the Captain’s Bakery is sponsoring the competition.

The function also catered to some of the 42 coaches who participated in the JFF-sanctioned course on March 13 and 14 this year, receiving their Level One Coaching Certificates from WFA General Secretary, Copeland Bailey.

“As of today, no club will be allowed to play in any WFA-organised competition unless they have a certified Level One Coach,” reiterated Everton Tomlinson, president of the Westmoreland Football Association.

The competition continues on Thursday at 3:00 pm with Roaring River hosting Grotto while Westmoreland Police entertains Perry Strikers at Bay Road.

In the meantime, the postponed final of the WFA Knockout Competition between Frome and Paul Island will be played tomorrow at Frome, starting 3:00 pm.