A brilliant strike from Makala Williams from 35 yards out was all Excelsior High School needed to secure the second and final spot in the 2023 ISSA/Tip Friendly Society Schoolgirls’ Football Competition on Thursday.

Williams pounced on the ball and, with time on her side, right-footed the ball into the top left corner in the 63rd minute of play, sparking wild jubilation among fans and players.

In the end, one goal was enough to defeat Garvey Maceo in their semi-final encounter Ashenheim Stadium. The defending champions will now meet Holmwood Technical in the final which will take place on Monday at Stadium East.

Excelsior’s challenge was always going to be difficult, especially against last year’s defeated finalists, since they were without five of their finest players owing to international obligations. And so it was, as Excelsior struggled to keep possession of the ball in the first half, and when they did obtain goal-scoring chances, their finishes were off target.

Garvey Maceo had a chance to put Excelsior on the back foot, but Captain Daihla Whyte’s free kick from just outside the box in the second minute of first-half stoppage time was wonderfully saved by Schenell Goodhall, one of the competition’s finest goalkeepers.

Despite poor finishing by the offensive unit, Excelsior showed some improvement upon resuming and appeared more relaxed on the ball. Williams’ stunning strike in the 63rd minute galvanised her team, as Excelsior went all-out in quest of additional goals, with nearly every player taking shots on goal.

Jully Ann Howard and Shanae Hunt of Garvey Maceo attempted to equalise, but Excelsior held on in the end.

“The team delivered an outstanding performance,” Excelsior Coach Xavier Gilbert told the Jamaica Observer. “Some of the girls were playing for the first time, and at this level in a semi-final game against a tough opposition, they should be commended for how they performed, and I lift my hat to them.

“It takes something extraordinary. Makala, who we recruited from the track and field department, scored a fantastic goal. We were missing several players, but credit to these ladies for stepping up and delivering. I am happy and proud of them because they handled themselves and the situation well.”