Buiba ward of Jarra Central were crowned champions of the first edition of Mansakonko Chairman Trophy after defeating Kiang Bantang of Kiang West by 7-8 in a post-match penalty kicks. Played at the Soma Mini Stadium, the regulation time ended a goalless draw.
It was a day of entertaining football at the Soma Mini stadium, when both Buiba ward of Jarra Central and Kiang Bantang of Kiang West clashed in the finals of the first edition of the MansaKonko Chairman trophy.
Buiba Ward FC began positively when both BakaryCeesay and Amad Cham Sarr came closer to opening the scores, but both failed to capitalise on their chances.
With both sides failing to find the back of the net, the first half ended in a stalemate.
Coming from the break, Kiang Bantang FC looked more comfortable against their opponents as they created several goal chances. However Kiang Bantaba’sPabiManjang’s futile attempt to net a clear opportunity forced the game to a post-match penalty shoot-out which resulted to Buiba’s victory.
Speaking to this medium, both coaches expressed delight at the performances of their respective teams.
The organiser of the championship, Chairman of MansaKonko Area Council Landing B Sanneh explained that the competition was meant to bring the youth of Lower River Region together as well as promote grass-roots football in the region.
Buiba Ward as champions went home with a trophy and medals and a cash prize of D20,000,00, while runners-up went home with a trophy, medals and a consolation prize of D15,000,00.
The final was attended by officials of the Gambia Football Federation, both National Youths and Sports councils among other invited personnel.
