Gizo Town have been crowned champions of the Gizo Kolombangara Constituency (GKC) Cup 2025.
This came after they edged out Central Kolombangara in a dramatic penalty shootout final at Ringi field, Kolombangara, Western Province.
The highly anticipated grand final on Sunday afternoon produced a fierce contest, with both sides failing to break the deadlock in the first half.
Despite numerous attacking attempts from both teams, the match remained goalless at the end of regulation time.
An additional 30 minutes of extra time (15 minutes each way) was played, but neither side managed to find the back of the net, forcing the match to be decided by penalties.
Gizo Town took control of the shootout when Hensky Foata converted the opening penalty. Central Kolombangara then missed their effort, giving Gizo Town an early advantage.
The shootout eventually ended 5–3 in favour of Gizo Town, sealing their championship victory.
South Kolombangara finished third in the tournament, while Northl Kolombangara claimed the fourth position.
Other participating teams were also recognised with consolation prizes for their involvement.
Individual awards were presented at the closing ceremony, with Jaygrey Sipakana of Gizo Town winning the Golden Boot award.
The Golden Glove went to Lensford Tome, while the Player of the Tournament award was claimed by a standout player from Central Kolombangara.
In his closing remarks, Gizo Kolombangara Constituency MP Hon. Jimson Tanaganda thanked all teams for their sportsmanship and commitment throughout the week-long tournament, which began on Monday.
He congratulated the top four teams for their spirit of football and competition, and encouraged young people to actively engage in sporting activities.
Hon. Tanaganda also acknowledged the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the Ringi community, medical and physio staff, and the Western Football Association (WFA) for their cooperation and support in ensuring the successful staging of the tournament.
He added that the venue for the next GKC Cup will be announced at a later date, while noting expectations that the tournament will also be hosted in Gizo with a similar duration to the Ringi event.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
