PTL Bazar Brothers pulled off an unexpected triumph against Foresters FC, claiming a 2-1 victory at Stad Linite. The match witnessed surprising team selection choices by Foresters, leaving out key contributors Ryan Henriette and Brandon Labrosse from the starting lineup.
Henriette and Labrosse have been instrumental in Foresters’ attacking prowess this season, accounting for over 60% of the team’s total goals. The exclusion of these two players raised eyebrows among fans, players, and probably the management team as well. Coach Harold Hoareau will likely face questions and provide explanations for his decision.
Despite missing their star duo, Foresters initially showed dominance in the first half until Colin Bibi’s injury forced him off the field in the 29th minute. The team had to readjust, and during this time, PTL Bazar Brothers came close to doubling their lead.
Graham Cafrine broke the deadlock for PTL Bazar Brothers in the 21st minute, putting them ahead. The first half saw the underdogs creating several promising opportunities, leaving Foresters fortunate to escape with just a one-goal deficit.
In the second half, PTL Bazar Brothers continued their determined display, eventually extending their lead in the 76th minute through Evariste Rakotondrahaja’s strike. Despite a late response from Foresters with Warren Mellie finding the net in the 83rd minute, it proved insufficient to salvage a result.
This victory holds significant implications for PTL Bazar Brothers, who have consistently proven their mettle against top-tier teams in the Seychelles Premier League. The win not only bolsters their survival prospects in the relegation battle but also adds intrigue to the title race.
Foresters now face a tougher challenge in their pursuit of the championship, with Saint Louis and Lightstars set to play their respective matches later this week. The outcome of those matches could determine Foresters’ chances of lifting the title. Saint Louis will clash with Anse Reunion on Saturday at Stad Linite, while Lightstars take on Red Star DF at Stad Amitie on the same day.
As the Seychelles Premier League continues to deliver surprises and drama, fans eagerly await the unfolding scenarios that will shape the destiny of the championship.
Stay tuned for more thrilling football action in the coming days.
PTL Bazar Brothers Starting XI:
#30 Ricky Pool
#4 Yasser Tolodrazana
#5 Kelvin Cupidon (substituted in 90’+2′)
#6 Fredy Erika Randrianandrasana
#7 Hubert Jean
#9 Jean Elson Rivaldo Tahinjanahary
#10 Evariste Rakotondrahaja
#13 Kenner Nourrice
#20 Stephane Fabien Labrosse (substituted in 67′)
#24 Dean Balette
#27 Graham Cafrine (substituted in 88′)
Substitutes:
#1 Andrew Valentin
#2 Vanerick Nathaniel Michel (substituted in 90’+2′)
#8 Lucas Allisop
#14 Gino Naidoo (substituted in 88′)
#16 Shawn Edgron Lucio Barbe
#17 Colyn Francourt (substituted in 67′)
#21 Dario Kent Moise
Foresters Starting XI:
#16 Gino Matthew Arcen Pleureuse
#15 Jean Tigana
#3 Laurence Leon
#6 Warren Mellie
#8 Colin Ron Bibi (substituted in 29′)
#11 Makhan Jean-Luc BristolCissoko (substituted in 46′)
#12 Kazeem Adeyeri (substituted in 80′)
#17 Brandon Molle
#18 Alex Jimmy Bijoux
#19 Dwain William
#20 Paul Briel Razafimanantsoa
Substitutes:
#7 Brandon Labrosse (substituted in 46′)
#9 Ryan Henriette (substituted in 29′)
#10 Carlos Mondon (substituted in 80′)
#13 Denis Cafrine
#14 Adrian Dario Hoareau
#22 Samuel Adrienne
#23 Dwayne Joshua Ally