JDF, Milex Eaglets storm into KPMG final
Giant-killers Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) A slew Goliath, while underdogs the Milex Eaglets scalped the Screaming Eagles in the semi-finals of the 2017 KPMG Squash League, which were played on Wednesday and Thursday at the Liguanea Club in New Kingston.
After dismissing two-time defending champions the Milex Eagles, Goliath seemed like a sure shot for the title with squash ace Julian Morrison leading their line-up. However, in semi-final action on Thursday night, things got off to a shaky start for Goliath when Gatasheu Bonner beat junior national team player Stephan Morrison 21/14, 21/20, 21/5.
After that, Julian Morrison stepped up and beat Darrian Barrant 21/19, 21/19, 21/20 and Goliath pulled even. However, Mark Gray then spanked veteran Fritzroy Smith 21/12, 21/12, 21/4 to knock Goliath out of the competition and propel JDF A into the final.
Surprise semi-finalists the Milex Eaglets blew away the Screaming Eagles to earn their right to play for the title. Experienced campaigner Shane Slater struck the first blow for the Eaglets when he kept his head to beat Shane Murray 21/19, 15/21, 19/21, 21/14, 23/22 in a blistering marathon on Wednesday night.
Then All Jamaica Under-19 boys champion Tahjia Lumley followed up with a 21/13, 21/13, 21/15 win over Stewart Murray to send the Eaglets through to the finals. Although the Screaming Eagles were out of contention, Ray Venugopal fought valiantly to prevent a sweep, but lost 21/10, 21/18, 21/11 to Adam Sykes.
Fireworks are expected when the Eaglets face off with JDF in the final, which is scheduled for Wednesday at the Liguanea Club. Before that, the Screaming Eagles will do battle with Goliath in the third-place playoff on Tuesday.
“It is thrilling to have two first-time finalists going for the title, which means we’ll be crowning a new champion when the competition is over,” Tournament Director Nathlee Boreland explained.
“When we see underdogs breaking through and beating more experienced players, it’s exciting for the spectators and great for the game and we’re looking forward to an electrifying final on April 12.”
