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S/K East youth tourney update

Dec 16, 2013, 9:23 AM | Article By: Cherno Omar Bobb

Leeds United on 15 December 2013 drew goalless with Real Betis FC in the ongoing Serrekunda East Sports Development Organisation (SESDO) youth tournament played at its Mini Stadium at 9am.

On the same day, Ebbeh Gi FC beat Latrikunda United 2-nil in the 11a.m. encounter played at the East Park.

Earlier on Saturday, Falcons FC drew 0-0 with Abuko United. Cannon FC beat Medina FC 1-0 while Milan FC lost to Total Bi FC 2-nil at the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium.

Speaking to Pointsports shortly after his side’s goalless draw with Real Betis, Hassim Bah, head coach of Leeds United, said he did not expect a draw at the final whistle because his team played their opponents “half field” during the first period of the game.

He added that they also created numerous goal-scoring opportunities but could not capitalise on them, saying it could be because of pressure put on themselves.

He expressed confidence that if his team could make it from the group stage they would centre in the final of the tournament, adding that he has the players it takes to get there.

The tournament would have an impact on the senior team, he also said, adding that all of them could not feature for their senior team during the nawetan proper as their team this season is made up of young players.

The tournament, he noted, would also give young players courage when they are called upon by their respective senior clubs.

He remarked that the tournament is also good for the zone as it will also help them scout players for the senior teams rather than going out of the zone to sign players for their teams.

Falou Njie, head coach of Real Betis, said his side created a couple of chances but could not capitalise on any, adding that they would go back and work harder for their final game of the group stage to be able to collect maximum points to stand a chance of making it to the next stage of the competition.

He said their substitutes worked well, adding that they still have a chance of qualifying to the next stage of the tournament provided they win their final group game with many goals.

Head coach Njie said the tournament is important for both players and teams, adding that it would also give divisional teams a chance to scout talents for their feeder teams.

“These young players are the future of Gambian football,” he concluded.