Gary Downs takes the Eagle 21 Trophy

Sunday the 23rd of May saw the Johannesburg Eagles host their Eagle 21 Trophy at Randburg AFC.

Initially a large field than 8 was expected, however the effects of the Chinese Covid pandemic affected the field with at least 4 players withdrawing due to Covid scares.

The Eagles were also proudly displaying their brand new banner and playing all their games on the bespoke fields brilliantly produced by Gary Downs from Easterns TFC. 

The final was played on the iconic 'Loftus Road' home ground to the famous Queens Park Rangers.

However the participating 8 players from the Joburg Eagles, ETS Subbuteo Club and the newly formed Easterns TFC had an enjoyable Sunday of fun, action, goals and the usual football banter.

Group A produced the first major shock when Fernando Rodrigues accounted for an out of sorts Clifford Graaff. Ian Clarke, from Easterns TFC and only playing in his second tournament, showed great form and composure to defeat Fernando and claim top spot in a tight Group A.

Fernando secured the runners up spot to claim his first semi-final showdown.

Group B saw Gary Downs from Easterns TFC produce some great table football to remain unbeaten and claim top spot. Jason Kennedy, still smarting after his beloved Sheffield Wednesday's relegation to the third tier of English football, although remaining unbeaten, struggled for a win and finished in the runner ups spot. 

Gary continued his fine league form to produce a scintillating semi final performance to defeat Fernando by 2 goals to nil and claim his final berth. Ian Clarke, whose rise up the Subbuteo chain has been meteoric, accounted for Jason Kennedy in a tense penalty shoot-out to claim his maiden cup final appearance.

The Eagles 21 Final saw two Easterns TFC aka The Knights, namely Gary and Ian battle for the Eagle Trophy. The final was a tight affair with both players showing some neat touches in build up play only to be thwarted by some very good defending by their opposition.

The final remained scoreless which meant the dreaded penalty shoot-out. Gary's experience stood him in good stead as he scored a close but deserving maiden Cup Final victory at the Joburg Eagles.

Thanks must go to everyone for attending and especially to Clifford's better half, also known as Mrs Subbuteo - Nita -  for the delectable delights on tournament day.

(report by Clifford Graaff)