There will be a new name on the DIRECTV North East Stars Champion of Champions Invitational Trophy after holders, Zavio's Construction Matura Re United crashed out in the semi finals against Express United.
Matura were defeated by 2 goals to 1 in the hard fought semi final on boxing day in Manzanilla. Express United, who finished third in the group stage will face Providence United, who only reached the semi finals after defeating Biche United in a play off.
Providence managed to defeat group winners Guayaguayare United by 3 goals to 2. So Express United and Providence United will battle it out in the final on New Years Day to see who collects the $30,000 first prize and the Champion of Champions trophy.
The final will take place on 1st January at Ojoe Road Recreation Ground, with the 3rd place play off between Zavio's Construction Matura Re United and Guayaguayare United kicking off at 1.30pm. Entrance fee is $40, which enables spectators to remain at the venue for the massive Soccer Fete taking place after the final.
Alongside top artists such as Bunji Garlin, Faye-Ann Lyons, Denise Belfon, 3 Suns, Shal Marshall and Shurwayne Winchester & You, will be new acts added to the line up including Nadia Batson, Iwer George and direct from Jamaica, the Queen of Dancehall, Lady Saw.
Tournament organiser, North East Stars President, Darryl Mahabir said "Its great that there will be a new name on the trophy this year. Both Express United and Providence United reached the final the hard way, after some great early form both Guayaguayare and Matura Re United."
However, Mahabir, owner of main sponsors, Japs Fried Chicken, was just as excited about the Soccer Fete afterwards. "Its going to be a fantastic night in Grande, one of the best ever in the North East. Once I heard that Lady Saw, Iwer George and Nadia Batson had completed our line up, I've been counting the days until Monday!"
North East Stars Operations Director, Kevin Harrison said "This really shows how professional football clubs can provide real value to its community. This will be a superb event, preceded by the best in amateur football from the North East Region. Theres only one place to be on New Years Day...Ojoe Rd, Sangre Grande"
The Soccer Fete tickets are now at $150 but some can still be located for $120. "There are still some early bird tickets in circulation, mainly with North East Stars players and staff, but even at $150 its fantastic value" said event promoter, Kareem Popo of Blu Pitts Promotions "But, of course, if you reach before the kick off of the Champion of Champions final, you only pay $40 and can stay all night!"