IN one of the most intense and thrilling games of the tournament, the Department of Correctional Services came from behind to defeat a star-studded Dilston All-Star 200-191 in the grand finale to crown themselves champions of the sixth staging of the Winners Domino Community Christmas League at Waterhouse Domino Club on Saturday.

Playing inside a packed venue that also saw spectators gathered on the sidewalks, the pair of Ronald “Lara” Davis and Alecia “Lisa” Whyte sent every pair that came to their table packing as they racked up a game-high 50 points to take Correctional Services over the line in a close battle throughout. Their performance made them the most outstanding players of the match, which saw them receiving a standing ovation from both players and spectators.

Meanwhile, the final started at a very brisk pace as both Correctional Services and Dilston All-Star tried to gain an early advantage. Both teams tied the scores at least five times during the first half, with the last being at 89-89. However, in the final stages of the half the Dilston All-Stars found some momentum and edged away to lead at the break 102 to 98.

On the resumption Dilston All-Stars maintained their slender lead over Correctional Services until the game began to change midway through the half. The Correctional Services team captain made a few changes to her team that yielded positive results immediately. They tied the scores at 151-151 and, thereafter, a battle ensued as both teams matched each other point for point.

As in every sporting event something had to give, and it was the Dilston All-Star team which folded under the pressure in the final stages of the game as Correctional Services surged ahead when it mattered the most. The Department of Correctional Services went on to win the match by nine points.

Sanique Clarke, one of the top players from Dilston All-Star, said that despite the loss she felt that her team did very well to finish in second place.

“It was a tremendous game. I mean, it was a close encounter from start to finish and we gave our all, and I am proud of my team. We did well to reach this far and we would have hoped to win the tournament, but congratulations to the Correctional Services — they did well,” Clarke told the Jamaica Observer.

Roy “Roxy” Smith and Aeon Whyte, also from Correctional Services, were named Most Valuable Players of the League for being the most outstanding pair throughout the season.

Correctional Services was also named the most disciplined team during the presentation ceremony held shortly after the final. Michael Bruce and Laurence Davey were named top referees for the league. Marverley/Shady Tree took third place.

– Ruddy Allen