By Kemo Kanyi
Gunjur zonal team defeated Foni zonal team in a post-match penalty shootout after a thrilling regular time encounter on Sunday, 13 October 2024, at the Brikama Boxba mini stadium.
Gunjur were awarded a penalty in the 7th minute of play after star player Dawda Sowe was brought down in the 18 yard box , which was taken by Gunjur’s lone striker Sheriffo Bojang, but the netminder for Foni Isaac Mendy dived to his left to save his side from conceding an early goal.
Gunjur continued its determination as the game proceeded, Bubacarr Jassey was brought down in the area, and the central referee Fatoumata Jabang pointed to the spot for a second penalty to Gunjur in the 17th minute. This time, Lamin Jammeh took the responsibility for Gunjur and slotted the ball home by sending the goalkeeper the wrong way for a 1 nil lead.
Foni pushed so hard by creating numerous goalscoring opportunities but could not take their chances. The first half ended 1-0 in favour of Gunjur zonal team.
The second half resumed with a renewed commitment from both sides to lay hands on the highly coveted West Coast trophy, with Foni pilling more pressure for a leveller while Gunjur was determined to stay in the lead.
Foni had to wait for the introduction of Abubacarr Gibba, who put them to parity in the 61 minute of the hard-fought encounter from a brilliant time header. The encounter was decided from the penalty shootout in which Gunjur triumphed 6-5.
The first edition of the West Coast Zonal was won by Gunjur. Last year, Foni won against Gunjur in the third edition from a post-match shootout.
