2024-07-03
A riveting showdown took place in the finale of the Jockey Club Youth Football League (U18-FA Cup) at Tsang Tai Uk Recreation Ground on Friday. After a nail-biting 90 minutes of regular playtime that resulted in a 0:0 deadlock, Southern triumphed over 3 Sing in a thrilling penalty shootout, securing a 5:4 victory and clinching the championship title.

As the match commenced, both teams adopted a defensive stance, leading to a multitude of midfield clashes but a dearth of shooting opportunities. It wasn't until the 14th minute that the first shot was fired, with Southern's Chan Ka Shing making an ambitious right-foot attempt from the edge of the penalty area, only to be thwarted by 3 Sing's KWOK Tak Ming.

Despite numerous crosses and corners, both teams struggled to capitalize on their chances. At the 24-minute mark, 3 Sing's LEE Ka Yiu launched a long-range shot from outside the penalty area, but it was deflected by the sturdy Southern defence.

3 Sing rallied with a surge of attacks just before the halftime whistle, with CHAN Pak Him unleashing a surprise shot in front of the box, but the goalkeeper was well-positioned to make a comfortable save. The first half concluded with the scoreline remaining a barren 0:0.

The intensity ratcheted up in the second half as both teams ramped up their aggression. Southern found themselves with a golden opportunity at the 40-minute mark when Liu Chi Chung 's free-kick into the penalty area was met with a high header from the unmarked Tam Yat Tung Jayson .

Southern maintained their offensive momentum. Five minutes later, Chan Ka Shing spun and unleashed a fierce shot in the penalty area, but 3 Sing goalkeeper managed to parry it to safety. Following this, Chan Ka Shing got on the end of CHEUNG KWONG CHING 's left corner with a header, but the attempt was off target.

At the 51-minute mark, Southern had another chance as Chan Lik Yan made a run into the penalty area from the right flank, but his pressured shot was comfortably saved by the keeper.

In the dying minutes of the match, 3 Sing nearly broke the deadlock as LEE Ka Yiu connected with a left corner, only for his header to be cleared on the goal line. The game ended in a 0:0 stalemate, necessitating a nail-biting penalty shootout.

Southern's prowess shone in the shootout, with all five of their shots finding the back of the net, whereas 3Sing had one of their shots saved by the resilient Southern goalkeeper.

Finally, Southern emerged victorious with a 5:4 score, earning them the prestigious title of champions of the Jockey Club Youth Football League (U18-FA Cup).