Challengers United’s nine-goal demolition stuns the Gardens as FA Cup action fires into life.
BASSETERRE: The 2026 SKNFA FA Cup Preliminary Round delivered drama, upsets, and a jaw-dropping scoreline over its opening two nights, leaving fans talking and setting up a mouth-watering Round of 16.
Monday, March 23 — Saddlers Playing Field
Mantab wasted no time announcing themselves as serious contenders, dismantling Conaree Fireballs International 4-0 in the night’s first fixture. Kirae Jarvis was the star of the show, netting twice in the 28th and 61st minutes. Rawle Benjamin added a third in the 59th minute before Jermaine Carey put the seal on it in the 77th. Mantab led 1-0 at the break and never looked troubled.
In the second Preliminary clash, CIBC Village Galaxy edged out a tense 1-0 win over 607 Construction Lodge Patriots. After a goalless first half, it took an 88th-minute strike from Akanye Francis to separate the sides — a late, nervy winner that sends Galaxy through to face Village Superstars in the Round of 16.
Tuesday, March 24 — The Gardens Playing Field
Rivers FC put on an attacking masterclass against Fast Cash/MBT Saddlers United, running out 5-2 winners in a high-energy contest. Rivers were dominant from the off — Fitzrald Hendrickson struck in the 11th minute before Lemar Irish grabbed two goals and Olamide Obajinmi added another as Rivers took a commanding 4-1 lead into the break. Oldain Powell added a fifth in the 75th minute. Saddlers showed fight with goals from Leslie Thomas and Jarin Clarke either side of halftime, but it was never enough.
However, the night’s headline act was nothing short of extraordinary. KFC Trinity/Challengers United obliterated Elco Ltd Security Forces United 9-0 in a performance that will be remembered for some time. After a goalless first half, Challengers erupted — Jabari Willett was unstoppable, bagging four goals in just eleven minutes between the 73rd and 84th minute. Kivaldo Jeffers struck twice, while Kaylon Liburd, Omari Morris, and Amarie Hughes also got on the scoresheet.
The result is the biggest of the round so far and sends a clear warning to every remaining team in the competition.
All four Preliminary Round winners now advance to the Round of 16, where the action continues through March 27 and 28.