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WESTERN BUREAU:

KEISHA HEATH, founder and organiser of the Western Hospitality Business Intercompany (WHBI) Football League, said the first staging of the competition contributed greatly to camaraderie among the companies.

In the 40-minute seven-a-side scrimmage, Eulen Aviation were crowned champions when they defeated Secrets Resorts 2-0 on penalties at the Providence Heights playing field in Montego Bay.

Initially, the competition attracted six teams, but after positive feedback more teams were added which resulted in 20 teams from hospitality companies, airport stakeholders and hotels in the competition.

The exciting, nail-biting final ended in a penalty shoot-out with Eulen Aviations' Paul Livingston and Adrian Peart scoring the penalties.

"It brought an energetic and thrilling vibe to the Providence Community. Managers got to meet each other and workers who would usually walk past each other at work are now sitting down and talking to each other, whether they win or lose," said Heath.

In the semi-finals, Eulen edged Red Cap Porters with a 1-0 victory and Secrets squeezed out a 1-0 over Menzies Aviation.

Winning coach Patrick Alexander said capturing the first title will help to build positivity among the players.

"We are looking forward to it and wouldn't mind if we have something like this twice a year.," said Alexander, whose players are already asking for more competitions.

According to Heath, the plan is to do this league on an annual basis given the demand from businesses who want to participate.

"The league was seen as beneficial for the hospitality industry and successful in reconnecting with regional partners," Heath said.

Meanwhile, losing coach, Damion Stewart, said despite the defeat his team would readily welcome another competition.

"We are very disappointed about the loss but took it well because of how we played. With penalties you know that the result can go either way," Stewart told STAR Sports.

"We are delighted with the start of the business house competition. It means a lot to connect and build relationships with other companies and workers," he added.

The first half was fairly even as both teams fought to take control of the game.

In the second half, both teams really turned up the tempo but were still unable to register a goal. Regulation time ended and both teams were given three penalties each.

The champions earned $175,000, while second place received $100,000 and third-place Menzies netted $75,000.

All three were presented with a trophy, medals and certificates.

Eulen Aviation's Alex Forbes was the leading scorer with six goals. The competition, however, found it difficult to select a Most Valuable Player because of the excellent overall talent that was on display.

Major sponsors included Jamaica Global Protective Services, Wisynco, Boom, WATA, and Powerade.