Paradise Open Champions Cup Campaign in Style with 6-1 Rout of Elite

Paradise Football Club made a commanding start to their BFA Champions Cup campaign with a dominant 6–1 victory over Elite Club on Thursday night at the Grantley Adams Memorial School Ground.

Despite a bright opening from the hosts, who matched Paradise’s intensity in the early stages, the contest quickly shifted in favor of the visitors once rhythm and control were established.

A moment of concern came in the 15th minute when captain Ramon Manning went down following a slip while taking a quick freekick. However, the skipper showed his resilience and leadership, continuing after treatment to marshal the back line with authority.

The breakthrough arrived in the 18th minute through Sheran Hoyte, who had already seen two efforts ruled out for offside. Once he found his range, Hoyte proved unstoppable — a constant threat across the front line — and would go on to complete a brace with his second goal arriving in the 77th minute.

Paradise doubled their advantage just before the half-hour mark when Shamari Harewood burst down the left and delivered a precise ball across goal for Christian “Banna” Gill, who finished calmly to make it 2–0. The defensive unit, led by Manning and well supported by Raquan Clarke and Renico Taitt-Best, ensured the team carried that lead into halftime without reply.

Adjustments in the second half saw Kristan Clarke and Omar Harris introduced, as Head Coach Mario Harte rotated his squad. Challenging pitch conditions — impacted by prior cricket use — tested both sides, but Paradise adapted well and maintained control.

Elite pulled a goal back in the 61st minute through Deago Gittens, whose powerful strike briefly lifted the home side. However, Paradise responded with authority. Harewood, who had been influential throughout, added his name to the scoresheet — capitalising on a defensive lapse to extend the lead, adding to his earlier contribution in the 22nd minute.

Substitute Malik Cox then made an immediate impact, scoring shortly after his introduction in the 79th minute following his replacement of Tiago Barrow, capping off an impressive team display and marking a memorable moment for the young player.

With Hoyte’s second goal rounding off the scoring, Paradise sealed an emphatic result — a performance defined by attacking efficiency, defensive organisation, and squad depth.

Match Summary

• Result: Paradise FC 6 – 1 Elite Club

• Scorers: Sheran Hoyte (2), Shamari Harewood, Christian Gill, Malik Cox (+ additional team goals)

• Venue: Grantley Adams Memorial School Ground

• Key Performers: Sheran Hoyte, Shamari Harewood, Ramon Manning

Outcome: A dominant opening performance sends Paradise confidently into Round Two of the Champions Cup