Garawol FC
on Sunday defeated Gambisara United 3-1 on penalty shootout following a
goalless draw on regulation time in the final, in the Soninkara annual Youth
Football tournament played at the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium, to be crowned
champions.
As winners, Garawol FC went home with a trophy and a cash prize of D12,000, while runners-up Gambisara United collected a consolation prize of D7,000 and a trophy.
Muhammed Hydara of Numuyel FC was named leading goal scorer of the tournament after bagging 5 goals to his name.
Garawol’s captain Tijan Ceesay was voted best player of the competition, while Gambisara United went home with the most discipline team prize.
Serrekunda East Sports Development Organisation, West Coast Radio, as well as some other individuals, were also awarded with certificates of appreciation.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the game, Habib Badjie, head coach of Garawol FC, expressed delight at lifting the trophy for the first time.
They had many critics in the wake of the tournament, he said, adding that they kept working hard to prove them wrong, and acquitted themselves by lifting the trophy.
Gambisara have a good side, he said, noting that his squad was the better side of the day.
Head coach Badjie concluded by expressing satisfaction in the level of organisation of the competition.
Ousman Dukureh, Gambisara United head coach, began by expressing disappointment for losing the final, but was quick to add that it’s a fact of life, that in football one side must lose for the other to win.
They played to expectations but luck was not on their side, he said, adding that it was their only defeat in the competition.
Dukureh thanked organisers of the tournament for bringing the Sarahuleh community in the country under one umbrella to unite and interact.
