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Vibe CT 105 W Connection will have a tough task ahead of them to retain the First Citizen's Cup when the competition kicks off at the Larry Gomes and Manny Ramjohn Stadiums on Friday from 6.45 pm.


The "Savonetta Boys" have their eyes on their second consecutive win in the FCB Cup, after a win on kicks from the penalty mark in the 2004 final against the Defence Force. Another such title will also make them the first team to win the tournament three times, as they and CL Financial San Juan Jabloteh have both won the Cup twice.

But for the six other teams contesting the 2005 Pro League, the $35,000 first prize will be an added incentive in their quest to dethrone the Pro League leaders, and get their hands on the coveted Cup.

And according to Pro League CEO Dexter Skeene, this year's competition-- for which the bank's contribution is again $130,000 - will be even better than 2004.

"The FCB Cup always brings out the best in the teams," Skeene said at the launch of the competition at FCB's Abercromby Street, Port of Spain branch yesterday. "Last year, we had one of the most exciting finals between W Connection and the Defence Force which went into penalty kicks."

Skeene also said last year's First Citizens Cup attracted record crowds for the semi-finals and finals, boasting attendances in the vicinity of 5,000.

And in an attempt to boost crowd support even further, the Pro League are offering free entry to FCB employees, as well as FCB card holders. There will be new incentives for spectators as well, and live entertainment featuring soca stars KMC, 3 Canal and road march champion Shurwayne Winchester.

There will also be giveaways and a "dash-for-cash" competition, where a selected patron will dribble through a maze, then shoot into an open goal for a $1,000 prize.

There will also be $500 prizes for the player scoring the most goals in the tournament, as well as the MVP for each game.

Connection, who are on a bye, will play an exhibition match against an FCB football team in the first match of the Manny Ramjohn Stadium double-header from 6.45 p.m., before Caledonia AIA/Fire tackle United Petrotrin from 9 p.m.

At the Larry Gomes Stadium in Malabar, Arima, 2003 champs Jabloteh take on Tobago United, at 6.45 p.m., then Defence Force come up against National Quarries North East Stars, also from 9 pm.