Arima Boys RC, the defending Atlantic Primary School Football champions, on Thursday sent a clear message to all challengers, that they will be difficult to beat this season.
The Arima-based outfit travelled to Manny Ramjohn Stadium and destroyed Gasparillo Government by a 7-0 margin. The champions were in total command and outplayed their southern counterparts holding a 3-0 lead at the half.
In the second session, Arima Boys continued their domination, cruising to an easy 7-0 victory. The marksmen for Arima Boys were Reynaldo Francois and Aston Molino, who both scored three with Isiah Lee, netting the other item. Vos Government showed that they will be a force to be reckoned with when they drubbed Moruga AC, 5-0.
The goalscorers for Vos Government were Nical Thompson (2), Jabari Grey (2) and Ezekiel Farrell one. At the Arima Velodrome, Carenage Boy raced into the quarterfinals with a 4-0 whipping of Couva South. The four-time national champions were led by skipper Micah Lansiquot double with Kathon St Hilaire and Travell Edward, adding one apeice. Fellow Port of Spain rivals, Eastern Boys destroyed Ortoire RC 7- 0.
Eastern Boys got their goals from Michah Gittens (3), Haile Beckles (2), Malcom Graham (1) and Desean Bowen (1). Also at the venue, Tunapuna Boys RC beat Valencia South Government 2-0.Tunapuna only lost this season was in the East Zone final to Arima Boys, 3-2. They will be seeking to win the national title. At Woodford Lodge, Santa Flora Government edged Chaguanas RC, 2-1.
The Tobago team which were scheduled to play their matches in the round of 16 were unable to get tickets to travel and as such their matches will be played on Tuesday. All Tobago matches will be contested on Tuesday before the quarterfinals begin on November 11.