The Helenites of St. Croix won their third USVI Club Championship when they defeated the Positive Vibes of St. Thomas 3-0 in Easter Sunday home action at the Paul E Joseph Stadium. Having lost 1-0 the previous Sunday on St. Thomas, the Helenites had to score, which they did in the 35th minute when Garick Mathurin’s through ball found Carlton Duncan one and one with the Positive Vibes’ goalkeeper, Jermaine Riley. Seven minutes later, Mathurin was again responsible for the buildup, which again found Duncan, who had an assist this time as Kersan Marcellin found himself with only goalkeeper Riley to beat, which he did for a 2-0 half time lead.
Down 2-1 on aggregate, the Positive Vibes stepped up their attack in the second half but were unable to get any clear chances, being stymied by the Helenites goal keeper Danny Michael or their sturdy defense. The home team celebration started in the 72nd minute when the Positive Vibes lost the ball outside their own penalty area due to a defensive blunder, and Duncan, recognizing that Riley was off his goal line, took a 20-yard bending right footer that found the top corner of the goal to put the Helenites up 3-0.
The Positive Vibes, now needing two goals to force extra time, were unable to muster even a consolation goal as their forwards were not able to capitalize on the half chances that came their way, giving the Helenites a comfortable victory. Duncan was named the series MVP.
USVI Club Championship history:
Helenites and New Vibes — 3
Positive Vibes — 2
M.I. Roc Masters, UWS Upsetters and Haitian Super Stars — 1 each