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Centuries-old Manning’s seek fresh addition with Ben Francis Cup - Multiple winners aiming to extend streak in knockout competition
December 18, 2025
The ISSA Ben Francis knockout semi-finals kick off today at 3 p.m., with the final four teams one step closer to the final spot in a chance at redemption.
An interesting game looms with former champions Clarendon College facing off against The Manning's School at St Elizabeth Technical High (STETHS).
Another marquee showdown is anticipated when former champions McGrath High and Cornwall College collide at Drax Hall Sports Complex.
For the STETHS battle, Clarendon College were finalists last season, but their dreams ended in a 3-1 loss to STETHS.
The boys from Chapelton have won four Ben Francis Cup KO titles, ranked third with wins in the competition to Cornwall College and STETHS, who are tied on seven.
NEW CHAPTER
Looking for a new chapter in their school's history, the nearly 300-year-old Manning's have been having one of their best seasons in years.
Patrick Graham, coach of Manning's, said the team needs to continue believing they can go all the way.
"We expect a tough game tomorrow. We're feeling good about our chances. We have been working hard in training and believe we have what it takes to compete," said Graham, who is a first-year coach.
"We will give it our best tomorrow and see where it takes us," added Graham.
Manning's, who had their backs against the wall in their quarterfinal match against Christiana on Tuesday, were able to rally to a 2-1 win.
Clarendon College clipped Garvey Maceo 1-0 to advance.
AVENGE DEFEAT
At Drax Hall, McGrath will be looking to avenge a 2-0 defeat in their daCosta cup quarterfinal match against Cornwall.
McGrath got their groove back with 4-1 thrashing to Ocho Rios High on Tuesday, after a tough quarterfinals with three consecutive losses.
Jermaine Thomas, coach of McGrath, said the team will be cautious.
"We have to close down, and track and mark a bit better. Once that is done, it should be a little bit easier. Once we nullify their threats, it shouldn't a problem," said Thomas.
"We gave them a lot of space in the first half when we played them. They were allowed to run and use the ball without much pressure," he added.
The St Catherine-based McGrath have been a rising star in the last few years. Last season as daCosta Cup finalists, they were minutes away from becoming champions against Garvey Maceo, until the latter turned things around in the final minutes.
In 2023, McGrath won their only Ben Francis title when they defeated Frome Technical High 1-0.
Meanwhile, Cornwall College, known for their rich history, will look to end their 22-year title drought.
Last year, Cornwall missed out on a place in the Ben Francis semi-finals after 2024 champions STETHS edged them 9-8 in a penalty shootout.
