Scorpions too good for DR Congo

The Gambia senior national team scored two goals in quick succession on their way to a 3-nil success at the expense of the Democratic Republic of Congo in yesterday’s international friendly match played at the Independence Stadium in Bakau.

The Belgian tactician coach, Paul Put, and his charges proved too good for their Congolese counterparts as they hammered them 3-nil to send warning signals to their opponents, Namibia, in next month’s qualifiers of the African Nations Cup finals due to take place in Windhoek.

The Gambia national team, better known as the Scorpions, made their winning ambition known to Congo when a spectacular long range effort by midfield maestro Tijan Jaiteh from an individual brilliance sent a teaming number of Gambian fans into celebration.

Jaiteh, took maximum advantage of left back Pa Modou Jagne’s set up and, within the twinkle of an eye, the former Gambia Ports Authority teenager fired home a powerful right-footed strike to put The Gambia 1-nil up just 18 minutes on the clock much to the delight of an unimpressive attendance at the stadium.

Congo made several goal attempts the best of which fell to Kabangu Patou and substitute Kanda Dro but the duo’s brilliant attacking options could do a little to trouble Gambia’s lanky gloves man Pa Dembo Touray, who had a quiet afternoon as a result.

Congo, who fell short of collective defensive combination at times, conceded their second goal thanks to another individual brilliance by Scorpions midfielder Demba Savage, who was handed his first start in a Scorpions shirt in as many matches.

Talismanic forward Momodou Ceesay, who had a quite game as well, rounded up a massive score-line as the former Wallidan creative striker converted from a penalty spot after been brought down by Congolese goalkeeper Kidiaba Robert in the 72nd minute.

Coach Paul Put, who was missing the services of several key players including Ousman Jallow, made few substitutions in the second half in an attempt to test some new players.

The new faces tested included Foday Trawally of Brikama United and Ali Sowe of Gamtel.

However Abdoulie Ken Mansally of the New England Revolution in the Major League Soccer also played a major role in Scorpions’ win over Congo, who will face an uphill task of beating Senegal in their next Nations Cup qualifier encounter in Dakar early next month.