Villa claim First Division title

FC Aston Villa claimed the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association (ABFA) First Division title on Thursday.
The Villa Lions kept their undefeated streak alive as they trounced Ace Trucking and Heavy-duty Equipment Glanvilles FC, 8-3.
Kwame-Ture Kirby (16th, 30th, 64th, 72nd), Deandre Bishop (12th), Rivero Yasnay (22nd, 58th) and Omega Jeffrey (82nd) all found the back of the net for the victors as they moved to 52 points to hoist the coveted title.
They will look to end the season without a loss as they face second-place PIC Liberta Blackhawks next Wednesday in Liberta.
The Lions who secured a spot in the 2018-2019 season of the Antigua Premier league (APL) some weeks ago were commended by their General Secretary, Neil Cochrane, who spoke briefly on the Good Morning Jojo show yesterday.
“I have to first congratulate the team and technical staff for a job well done. It’s been nine long years since we have been in the APL and to know that we are returning is an extraordinary feeling.
“Special mention must be made to our senior guys, Garry Gonsalves and Demon (Steveroy Anthony) who showed great leadership and assisted even in terms of coaching.”
Cochrane also spoke on the plans being made for preparation into the APL, noting his intention to let senior players like Gonsalves make their final appearances next season.
“We will break for two weeks and have a meeting with the executive and the technical staff as to the way forward. Some time in
May however we will bring the player in and host a number of camps. By this time the newly refurbished field at the Blackburne Sports Complex in Villa will be ready.
“Garry was there when we went down and it is only right in my eyes that he be able to play even for just
five minutes. He will then take up another role in the team.”
The former player concluded by thanking the fans and other entities who supported them. They include the Prime Minister and Parliamentary Representative, Gaston Browne, the Pigotts Sports Club and members of the FC Aston Villa board.