St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS) claimed a record-equalling seventh ISSA/WATA Ben Francis Cup title with a 3-1 victory over former daCosta Cup champions Clarendon College at the National Stadium on Saturday.

The win marked STETHS’ first hold on the title since the 2015 season, when they completed the rural area double.

STETHS secured victory with first-half goals from Kaieem Lewis in the 27th minute, and Henry Johnson in the 45th, while substitute Jordan Blake scored in the 90th. Clarendon College’s Justin Hayles scored their lone goal in the 70th minute.

STETHS dominated the early exchanges, moving the ball swiftly across the field and peppering the Clarendon goal with several attempts. Their persistence paid off when Lewis fired home from close range, beating the goalkeeper and finding the back of the net.

Johnson doubled STETHS’ lead after completing a precise one-two inside the 18-yard box with Lewis before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot past the goalkeeper.

In the second half, Clarendon College displayed more grit and determination, creating several scoring opportunities. They reduced the deficit when Hayles converted from the penalty spot. However, Blake sealed the victory for STETHS with a powerful right-footed volley on the stroke of full time. STETHS Head Coach Omar Wedderburn expressed his delight at the win.

“We are really happy because it has been a long time since we won anything at STETHS, and I think this is the way to start,” he said. “This is the seventh title for me and we are going to creep before we walk. We are creeping right now, and we have great plans for next year, but I think this will motivate our programme going forward.” Clarendon College’s wait for the Ben Francis title continues, having last claimed the crown in 2017.