In a thrilling finale to the Capri Okanagan Oldtimers Soccer League Cup, the Brown Benefits, with 10 players, edged Penticton United 1-0 to claim the men’s 45-plus championship.
Gord Brown of Brown Benefits said they were overwhelmed with the victory at King’s Park on Oct. 4, especially while missing two key players and their striker who got hurt in the final league game.
“When most teams play Penticton, they know that they are up against an all-star team,” he said. “When we play Penticton, it’s usually a great test for both clubs.
“We managed a great counter attack and scored on a penalty from our sweeper Grant Campbell,” added Brown of the goal with 16 minutes remaining. “Our defence held, but Steve Heiss our goalkeeper, played his best game of the season for us.”
Entering the championships the squads were so evenly matched, the Brown Benefits claimed the league title on goal differential (+58 to +53) on the final day as they finished with identical records of 18 wins and two losses. Brown this helped set up one of the most exciting and dramatic finals in years.
Penticton came out strong to start, but were unlucky not to take the lead on a Mike Beliveau rocket from 22 yards out that nailed the corner of the crossbar and post, but stayed out. Penticton United found another level to their game trying to level the score and nearly did on Beliveau shot that somehow missed following a scramble in the box. Heiss was named man of the match.