FC Kairat signs striker Zico Ceesay
Zico Ceesay
8th February 2013
Kazakhstan Premier League side FC Kairat Almaty have signed Gambia international striker Momodou ‘Zico’ Ceesay from Slovakian club MŠK Žilina, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
The 24-year-old attacker joined the Kazakh club on a three-year-contract with an option to extend.
Žilina confirmed that the 6ft 5in striker left the club and joined the Almaty-based side after a two-and-half year stint with them and as well revealed the transfer fee involved.
“Momodou Ceesay has left the six-time champions since 1st February and will join Kazakh team, FC Kairat Almaty who have agreed to sign the Gambian striker,” Žilina said in a statement on their official website.
“Momodou Ceesay made no secret to the fact that he wants to leave the club after two and a half years of operation in Slovakia and his request was granted. The amount involved in his transfer is €450,000.”
“The financial demands of the player and the fact that his contract ended in the summer, MŠK Žilina welcomed this opportunity [to sell him]. We want to thank Momodou Ceesay for the work [he has done] during his time at the club and [we] wish him luck in his future career,” the statement concluded.
The former Wallidan hit-man began his professional career in 2008 when he joined Belgian club K.V.C. Westerlo who spotted his potential and signed him at the age of 18. He injected power and presence to the former Jupiler league side but failed to make a lasting impression as in 32 appearances; he failed to find the back of the net and was released after a two year spell but he didn’t had to wait long as on hand to secure his signature on a free transfer was MŠK Žilina who landed him on a half-year contract which was later extended.
He scored in his first Corgoň Liga match on 31 July 2010 and was key in Žilina’s qualification to the 2010/11 UEFA Champions League, scoring three goals at the qualifying rounds.
Zico made his senior national team debut against Mexico on 30 May 2010 and in his second international match, he scored his first goal for Gambia against Namibia on 4 September 2010.
About the club
FC Kairat Almaty is a Kazakh football club, playing in Almaty Central Stadium, Almaty.
Like many clubs in the Soviet Union, they went through a number of name changes in their history.
They were known as Lokomotiv Almaty when founded in 1954 and later Urozhai Almaty, before settling on Kairat. They were the leading Kazakh team during the Soviet era, the only ever club to compete at the Soviet Top League and to win the Soviet First League (second tier of competition) in both 1976 and 1983.
The team achieved an all time high Soviet Super League finish of 7th in 1986 and altogether spent 24 seasons in the Soviet top division, a record for a Central Asian team. During the existence of the USSR, Kairat Almaty was a part of the Voluntary Sports Society Kairat.
The club also has a highly successful Futsal team AFC Kairat, who has been Kazakh champions in 2003-2008 seasons and reached semi-finals of UEFA Futsal Cup in three recent seasons.
The club was the first Soviet Team to win a European Cup. It happened in 1971 in Almaty, when Kairat beat FC Rapid Bucharest with 2-1 and clinched European Railworks Cup, a defunct club tournament now.
After the Football Union of Kazakhstan joined UEFA, Kairat played in qualifying rounds of European cups three times, but never progressed a single round.
Kazakhstan Premier League side FC Kairat Almaty have signed Gambia international striker Momodou ‘Zico’ Ceesay from Slovakian club MŠK Žilina, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
The 24-year-old attacker joined the Kazakh club on a three-year-contract with an option to extend.
Žilina confirmed that the 6ft 5in striker left the club and joined the Almaty-based side after a two-and-half year stint with them and as well revealed the transfer fee involved.
“Momodou Ceesay has left the six-time champions since 1st February and will join Kazakh team, FC Kairat Almaty who have agreed to sign the Gambian striker,” Žilina said in a statement on their official website.
“Momodou Ceesay made no secret to the fact that he wants to leave the club after two and a half years of operation in Slovakia and his request was granted. The amount involved in his transfer is €450,000.”
“The financial demands of the player and the fact that his contract ended in the summer, MŠK Žilina welcomed this opportunity [to sell him]. We want to thank Momodou Ceesay for the work [he has done] during his time at the club and [we] wish him luck in his future career,” the statement concluded.
The former Wallidan hit-man began his professional career in 2008 when he joined Belgian club K.V.C. Westerlo who spotted his potential and signed him at the age of 18. He injected power and presence to the former Jupiler league side but failed to make a lasting impression as in 32 appearances; he failed to find the back of the net and was released after a two year spell but he didn’t had to wait long as on hand to secure his signature on a free transfer was MŠK Žilina who landed him on a half-year contract which was later extended.
He scored in his first Corgoň Liga match on 31 July 2010 and was key in Žilina’s qualification to the 2010/11 UEFA Champions League, scoring three goals at the qualifying rounds.
Zico made his senior national team debut against Mexico on 30 May 2010 and in his second international match, he scored his first goal for Gambia against Namibia on 4 September 2010.
About the club
FC Kairat Almaty is a Kazakh football club, playing in Almaty Central Stadium, Almaty.
Like many clubs in the Soviet Union, they went through a number of name changes in their history.
They were known as Lokomotiv Almaty when founded in 1954 and later Urozhai Almaty, before settling on Kairat. They were the leading Kazakh team during the Soviet era, the only ever club to compete at the Soviet Top League and to win the Soviet First League (second tier of competition) in both 1976 and 1983.
The team achieved an all time high Soviet Super League finish of 7th in 1986 and altogether spent 24 seasons in the Soviet top division, a record for a Central Asian team. During the existence of the USSR, Kairat Almaty was a part of the Voluntary Sports Society Kairat.
The club also has a highly successful Futsal team AFC Kairat, who has been Kazakh champions in 2003-2008 seasons and reached semi-finals of UEFA Futsal Cup in three recent seasons.
The club was the first Soviet Team to win a European Cup. It happened in 1971 in Almaty, when Kairat beat FC Rapid Bucharest with 2-1 and clinched European Railworks Cup, a defunct club tournament now.
After the Football Union of Kazakhstan joined UEFA, Kairat played in qualifying rounds of European cups three times, but never progressed a single round.
Sporting Lisbon sign Seejou King on loan
Seejou King
28th January 2013
Portuguese Segunda Liga [second tier] side Sporting Clube de Portugal B [Sporting Lisbon B] have signed Danish-born Gambian defender Seejou ‘Krea’ King, 20, on loan for the rest of the season, Gam Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
King’s rights are owned by Danish champions FC Nordsjælland but the deal includes an option to sign the Gambian defender to a permanent deal.
It is believed that King will act as a possible long-term replacement for former Liverpool left back Emiliano Insúa, who has left the club to join Spanish La Liga side Atlético Madrid.
King is expected to remain with Sporting B Squad in the Liga de Honra.
“I am very happy to have this opportunity with Sporting, they are one of the big clubs of Europe. I want to help the club win and also show what I could do,” King told Gam Sports Online.
About Sporting Lisbon B
Sporting Clube de Portugal B is a Portuguese football team based in the country’s capital city of Lisbon. They are the reserve team of Sporting Clube de Portugal, colloquially known as Sporting Lisbon outside of Portugal.
Reserve teams in Portugal play in the same league system as the senior team, rather than in a reserve team league. However, they cannot play in the same division as their senior team, so Sporting B is ineligible for promotion to the Primeira Liga [top tier] and cannot play in the Taça de Portugal [main national football knockout competition] and Taça da Liga [Portuguese League Cup].
Sporting had a B team until 2003/04 season, and refounded it in 2012/13, when a new set of rules regarding B teams was introduced in Portuguese football system. For 2012/13 season, another five B Teams, alongside Sporting B, where refounded and established themselves in Segunda Liga.
The club currently plays at the Complexo Desportivo de Rio Maior which holds a seating capacity of 2000.
Portuguese Segunda Liga [second tier] side Sporting Clube de Portugal B [Sporting Lisbon B] have signed Danish-born Gambian defender Seejou ‘Krea’ King, 20, on loan for the rest of the season, Gam Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
King’s rights are owned by Danish champions FC Nordsjælland but the deal includes an option to sign the Gambian defender to a permanent deal.
It is believed that King will act as a possible long-term replacement for former Liverpool left back Emiliano Insúa, who has left the club to join Spanish La Liga side Atlético Madrid.
King is expected to remain with Sporting B Squad in the Liga de Honra.
“I am very happy to have this opportunity with Sporting, they are one of the big clubs of Europe. I want to help the club win and also show what I could do,” King told Gam Sports Online.
About Sporting Lisbon B
Sporting Clube de Portugal B is a Portuguese football team based in the country’s capital city of Lisbon. They are the reserve team of Sporting Clube de Portugal, colloquially known as Sporting Lisbon outside of Portugal.
Reserve teams in Portugal play in the same league system as the senior team, rather than in a reserve team league. However, they cannot play in the same division as their senior team, so Sporting B is ineligible for promotion to the Primeira Liga [top tier] and cannot play in the Taça de Portugal [main national football knockout competition] and Taça da Liga [Portuguese League Cup].
Sporting had a B team until 2003/04 season, and refounded it in 2012/13, when a new set of rules regarding B teams was introduced in Portuguese football system. For 2012/13 season, another five B Teams, alongside Sporting B, where refounded and established themselves in Segunda Liga.
The club currently plays at the Complexo Desportivo de Rio Maior which holds a seating capacity of 2000.
Dampha’s Nancy through to last 16 of Coupe de France
Abdourahman Dampha
28th January 2013
Gambia international midfielder Abdourahman Dampha and his Ligue 1 side Nancy moved into the last 16 of the Coupe de France as they overcame fancied Nice on penalties.
The Gambian midfielder played the full game against Nice, who are fourth in Ligue 1. Nice took the lead against Dampha’s bottom side Nancy through Alexy Bosetti after seven minutes.
However, the visitors went ahead through Cameroon striker Paul Alo’o Efoulou’s double (23, 57) only for Dario Cvitanich to equalise in the last minute and make it 2-2.
The teams could not be separated in extra-time and Nancy showed all their character, despite having been denied victory over 90 minutes, to win 4-2 on penalties.
Abdourahman Dampha and his Nancy have won just once in the league this season but the cup seems to be offering light relief.
Gambia international midfielder Abdourahman Dampha and his Ligue 1 side Nancy moved into the last 16 of the Coupe de France as they overcame fancied Nice on penalties.
The Gambian midfielder played the full game against Nice, who are fourth in Ligue 1. Nice took the lead against Dampha’s bottom side Nancy through Alexy Bosetti after seven minutes.
However, the visitors went ahead through Cameroon striker Paul Alo’o Efoulou’s double (23, 57) only for Dario Cvitanich to equalise in the last minute and make it 2-2.
The teams could not be separated in extra-time and Nancy showed all their character, despite having been denied victory over 90 minutes, to win 4-2 on penalties.
Abdourahman Dampha and his Nancy have won just once in the league this season but the cup seems to be offering light relief.
Patrick Mendy set for WBA Intercontinental fight
Patrick 'The Tiger' Mendy
22nd January 2013
Gambian Super middleweight boxer Patrick ‘The Tiger’ Mendy is set to travel to Denmark next month to take on WBA Intercontinental champion Patrick Nielsen in a boxing fight.
The title fight will take place at the Nordic Fight Night in Esbjerg on February 9 and the 22-year-old Gambian is confident he can upset his unbeaten opponent on his own turf.
“I am coming to Denmark to destroy Nielsen, I am Patrick ‘The Tiger’ Mendy, I will cut Nielsen everywhere and leave my mark on his face,” the Gambian told Maidenhead Advertiser, a weekly local paper which has been published in the Berkshire town of Maidenhead since 1869.
Nielsen, who has won all 17 of his fights, eight by knockout, responded: “I have heard a lot of rubbish from my opponents before fights. At the end of the day, it was always them in the dust, not me. It will be the same with [Patrick] Mendy.”
“He’s going down, like all of my opponents before him,” he added.
Mendy made his debut as a professional boxer on 6 March 2009 against Travis Dickinson and lost on points. He then lost his next fight as well against Tobias Webb on points, with each of his first two opponents their debuts.
He was picked as a contender for the 13th series of Prizefighter where he went on to win the competition. He was also the youngest fighter ever to take part in the competition at the age of 19.
He shot to prominence when he became the youngest ever winner of the Prizefighter series in 2010.
Gambian Super middleweight boxer Patrick ‘The Tiger’ Mendy is set to travel to Denmark next month to take on WBA Intercontinental champion Patrick Nielsen in a boxing fight.
The title fight will take place at the Nordic Fight Night in Esbjerg on February 9 and the 22-year-old Gambian is confident he can upset his unbeaten opponent on his own turf.
“I am coming to Denmark to destroy Nielsen, I am Patrick ‘The Tiger’ Mendy, I will cut Nielsen everywhere and leave my mark on his face,” the Gambian told Maidenhead Advertiser, a weekly local paper which has been published in the Berkshire town of Maidenhead since 1869.
Nielsen, who has won all 17 of his fights, eight by knockout, responded: “I have heard a lot of rubbish from my opponents before fights. At the end of the day, it was always them in the dust, not me. It will be the same with [Patrick] Mendy.”
“He’s going down, like all of my opponents before him,” he added.
Mendy made his debut as a professional boxer on 6 March 2009 against Travis Dickinson and lost on points. He then lost his next fight as well against Tobias Webb on points, with each of his first two opponents their debuts.
He was picked as a contender for the 13th series of Prizefighter where he went on to win the competition. He was also the youngest fighter ever to take part in the competition at the age of 19.
He shot to prominence when he became the youngest ever winner of the Prizefighter series in 2010.
Kandji on trial at French Ligue 2 side Clermont
Macoumba Kandji
22 January 2013
Gambia-hopeful Macoumba Kandji is understood to be currently undergoing a trial with French Ligue 2 side Clermont Foot Auvergne 63.
With the Houston Dynamo drafting Jason Johnson last week in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft, many have assumed it closes the door for the return of Kandji to the club.
During an interview with ESPN Reporter Monica Gonzalez in the latter part of the draft, Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear mentioned Kandji had moved on.
Kandji and his whereabouts have been unknown thus far, but today a team in the second division of France gave him a mention on Twitter and it appears Kandji will be on trial with Clermont Foot in France's Ligue 2.
The club tweeted this out today: “Macoumba Kandji, attaquant mis à l'essai cette semaine, est aussi sur Twitter: @mackandji #clermontfoot”, meaning the team says Kandji was tested this week and gives their follows his official Twitter handle.
In addition, Clermont later on confirmed on their website that Kandji will be on trial during the week ahead. The team currently lie 14th in the 20-team Ligue 2 table with 24 points.
Clermont Foot Auvergne 63 (commonly referred to as Clermont Foot or simply Clermont) is a French association football club based in Clermont-Ferrand. The first incarnation of the club was formed in 1911 and the current club was created in 1990 as a result of a merger.
Clermont currently play in Ligue 2, the second level of French football having achieved promotion to the league after winning the 2006–07 edition of the Championnat National. The club plays its home matches at the Stade Gabriel Montpied located within the city. Clermont is managed by the French football player Régis Brouard and captained by Damien Perrinelle.
Gambia-hopeful Macoumba Kandji is understood to be currently undergoing a trial with French Ligue 2 side Clermont Foot Auvergne 63.
With the Houston Dynamo drafting Jason Johnson last week in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft, many have assumed it closes the door for the return of Kandji to the club.
During an interview with ESPN Reporter Monica Gonzalez in the latter part of the draft, Dynamo head coach Dominic Kinnear mentioned Kandji had moved on.
Kandji and his whereabouts have been unknown thus far, but today a team in the second division of France gave him a mention on Twitter and it appears Kandji will be on trial with Clermont Foot in France's Ligue 2.
The club tweeted this out today: “Macoumba Kandji, attaquant mis à l'essai cette semaine, est aussi sur Twitter: @mackandji #clermontfoot”, meaning the team says Kandji was tested this week and gives their follows his official Twitter handle.
In addition, Clermont later on confirmed on their website that Kandji will be on trial during the week ahead. The team currently lie 14th in the 20-team Ligue 2 table with 24 points.
Clermont Foot Auvergne 63 (commonly referred to as Clermont Foot or simply Clermont) is a French association football club based in Clermont-Ferrand. The first incarnation of the club was formed in 1911 and the current club was created in 1990 as a result of a merger.
Clermont currently play in Ligue 2, the second level of French football having achieved promotion to the league after winning the 2006–07 edition of the Championnat National. The club plays its home matches at the Stade Gabriel Montpied located within the city. Clermont is managed by the French football player Régis Brouard and captained by Damien Perrinelle.
Scottish club Hibernian tells Pa Saikou Kujabi to leave
Pa Saikou Kujabi told to leave
21st January 2013
Scottish Premier League side Hibernian on Friday revealed that they have told Gambian international defender Pa Saikou Kujabi to find a new club.
Kujabi has only turned out once for Hibs since he was red carded in May’s Scottish Cup final defeat to Hearts, a start in the team’s 2-0 League Cup loss at Queen of the South.
The 26-year-old left back is a Gambian internationalist who penned an 18 month contract with the Easter Road men last January.
Speaking in the Edinburgh Evening News, manager Pat Fenlon said the 5ft 8in defender was free to leave.
“Pa [Saikou] has not been in the team and hasn’t been around the squad for a while. We have said to him he can find himself somewhere else.”
“It’s difficult for Pa because he has a fantastic attitude. We’ve never had a problem with him. He is at a stage of his career where he is not a young player; he needs to be playing regularly.”
Pa Saikou arrived at Easter Road last January after leaving German 2. Bundesliga side FSV Frankfurt. He arrived with the label: “The Gambian Roberto Carlos”, and at first impressed. However his form soon nose dived and he fell out-of-favour at the Cabbage.
Scottish Premier League side Hibernian on Friday revealed that they have told Gambian international defender Pa Saikou Kujabi to find a new club.
Kujabi has only turned out once for Hibs since he was red carded in May’s Scottish Cup final defeat to Hearts, a start in the team’s 2-0 League Cup loss at Queen of the South.
The 26-year-old left back is a Gambian internationalist who penned an 18 month contract with the Easter Road men last January.
Speaking in the Edinburgh Evening News, manager Pat Fenlon said the 5ft 8in defender was free to leave.
“Pa [Saikou] has not been in the team and hasn’t been around the squad for a while. We have said to him he can find himself somewhere else.”
“It’s difficult for Pa because he has a fantastic attitude. We’ve never had a problem with him. He is at a stage of his career where he is not a young player; he needs to be playing regularly.”
Pa Saikou arrived at Easter Road last January after leaving German 2. Bundesliga side FSV Frankfurt. He arrived with the label: “The Gambian Roberto Carlos”, and at first impressed. However his form soon nose dived and he fell out-of-favour at the Cabbage.
Bye Malleh Wadda takes over reigns at Nairobi City Stars
Bye Malleh Wadda
21st January 2013
Kenyan Premier League side Nairobi City Stars have appointed former Gambia international Bye Wadda as the fulltime coach for the start of the new season.
Gambian Wadda, took over the first team reins in September 2012 when head coach Gideon Ochieng left the country for the United States, for what was said to be a short symposium.
Ochieng was to return before the end of the season but he did not and has seldom communicated to this day, after earlier being expected to be in town for the start of the pre-season training next week.
Club chair Peter Jabuya says that he feels they need to move on, seeing as Ochieng is not on his way back home soon, and has elevated Wadda to coach – adding that they will appoint two assistant coaches to back him up.
“Bye Wadda will start the new Kenyan Premier League season as head coach. We will appoint two assistant coaches to help him out and give him all the tools necessary to do well,” he said.
“The truth is that Gideon Ochieng has not communicated with us from America for a long time and we do not expect him back soon according to our sources. We are a football club that needs to prepare and so can’t live in limbo. We have to move on and thus the change on our part.”
Jabuya says that under the Gambian, he expects them to improve as an entity and achieve better than they did last season.
“Wadda is experienced and has coached elsewhere in the world including his native Gambia,” he said. “He has also been here with us for some time and so understands the Kenyan game.”
“That combination is what we need to grow, we need some experience and good understanding of our needs to excel. “I feel that with him in charge we can do well.”
Wadda lead the City Stars to finish two places above the relegation zone in the KPL last season.
Kenyan Premier League side Nairobi City Stars have appointed former Gambia international Bye Wadda as the fulltime coach for the start of the new season.
Gambian Wadda, took over the first team reins in September 2012 when head coach Gideon Ochieng left the country for the United States, for what was said to be a short symposium.
Ochieng was to return before the end of the season but he did not and has seldom communicated to this day, after earlier being expected to be in town for the start of the pre-season training next week.
Club chair Peter Jabuya says that he feels they need to move on, seeing as Ochieng is not on his way back home soon, and has elevated Wadda to coach – adding that they will appoint two assistant coaches to back him up.
“Bye Wadda will start the new Kenyan Premier League season as head coach. We will appoint two assistant coaches to help him out and give him all the tools necessary to do well,” he said.
“The truth is that Gideon Ochieng has not communicated with us from America for a long time and we do not expect him back soon according to our sources. We are a football club that needs to prepare and so can’t live in limbo. We have to move on and thus the change on our part.”
Jabuya says that under the Gambian, he expects them to improve as an entity and achieve better than they did last season.
“Wadda is experienced and has coached elsewhere in the world including his native Gambia,” he said. “He has also been here with us for some time and so understands the Kenyan game.”
“That combination is what we need to grow, we need some experience and good understanding of our needs to excel. “I feel that with him in charge we can do well.”
Wadda lead the City Stars to finish two places above the relegation zone in the KPL last season.
Vancouver Whitecaps drafts Kekuta Manneh
Kekuta Manneh
18th January 2013
Gambian striker Kekuta Manneh has been snapped up by Major League Soccer club Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.
Manneh, 18, joins Whitecaps FC after last playing for Austin Aztex in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League (PDL). The native of Bakau, The Gambia, was named to the 2012 PDL All-Central Conference team after leading the Aztex with 12 goals and nine assists in 13 matches.
“Kekuta brings great pace out wide and is a natural goalscorer,” said Whitecaps’ head coach Martin Rennie. “He is a versatile player with a natural ability to play on the left or on the right, which isn’t easy to find. I’m very pleased that we were able to select Kekuta.”
Prior to playing in Austin, Manneh scored 23 goals for Lonestar SC U-17/18 in the 2011-12 United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) season. In the 2010-11 season, the 5-foot-9, 140-pound striker scored 35 goals in 23 games for USSDA club Texas Rush AJ Auxerre U-15/16.
To start his career, The Gambia U-20 national team member played for Steve Biko in the Gambian top flight, where he scored 17 goals in 12 matches in his lone season with the club.
This past December, the young African was in Vancouver to train with Whitecaps FC. Previously, Manneh trained with MLS clubs Colorado Rapids, LA Galaxy, and Colorado Rapids, as well as clubs in Germany and England.
Manneh was the youngest player selected in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft and becomes the second Gambian to join Whitecaps after Mustapha ‘Toubabo’ Jarju’s unsuccessful stint at the club in 2011.
He now joins Mamadou ‘Futty’ Danso, Abdoulie ‘Kenny’ Mansally, Sainey and Sanna Nyassi in the top flight of American football.
About club
Vancouver Whitecaps FC is a Canadian professional soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The Whitecaps are the 17th team of Major League Soccer and replace the USSF Division 2 team of the same name, which was owned and managed by the same group that operates the MLS team, and which played through the conclusion of that league's 2010 season.
The MLS team is the third to share the legacy of the Whitecaps name. In the 2012 season, the team’s second in the MLS, the Whitecaps became the first Canadian team to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs
About MLS SuperDraft
The MLS SuperDraft is an annual event, taking place in January of each year, in which the Major League Soccer teams select players who have graduated from college or otherwise been signed by the league.
The SuperDraft was first instituted in 2000, as a combination of the MLS College Draft, in which players having graduated from college were selected, and the MLS Supplemental Draft, in which all other players were chosen.
The draft is divided into three rounds in which each club has a selection, the order of which is determined by a combination of the teams’ playoff and regular season positions, with the last placed team (or expansion teams) getting the first pick.
Gambian striker Kekuta Manneh has been snapped up by Major League Soccer club Vancouver Whitecaps in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft.
Manneh, 18, joins Whitecaps FC after last playing for Austin Aztex in the United Soccer Leagues (USL) Premier Development League (PDL). The native of Bakau, The Gambia, was named to the 2012 PDL All-Central Conference team after leading the Aztex with 12 goals and nine assists in 13 matches.
“Kekuta brings great pace out wide and is a natural goalscorer,” said Whitecaps’ head coach Martin Rennie. “He is a versatile player with a natural ability to play on the left or on the right, which isn’t easy to find. I’m very pleased that we were able to select Kekuta.”
Prior to playing in Austin, Manneh scored 23 goals for Lonestar SC U-17/18 in the 2011-12 United States Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) season. In the 2010-11 season, the 5-foot-9, 140-pound striker scored 35 goals in 23 games for USSDA club Texas Rush AJ Auxerre U-15/16.
To start his career, The Gambia U-20 national team member played for Steve Biko in the Gambian top flight, where he scored 17 goals in 12 matches in his lone season with the club.
This past December, the young African was in Vancouver to train with Whitecaps FC. Previously, Manneh trained with MLS clubs Colorado Rapids, LA Galaxy, and Colorado Rapids, as well as clubs in Germany and England.
Manneh was the youngest player selected in the 2013 MLS SuperDraft and becomes the second Gambian to join Whitecaps after Mustapha ‘Toubabo’ Jarju’s unsuccessful stint at the club in 2011.
He now joins Mamadou ‘Futty’ Danso, Abdoulie ‘Kenny’ Mansally, Sainey and Sanna Nyassi in the top flight of American football.
About club
Vancouver Whitecaps FC is a Canadian professional soccer team based in Vancouver, British Columbia that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The Whitecaps are the 17th team of Major League Soccer and replace the USSF Division 2 team of the same name, which was owned and managed by the same group that operates the MLS team, and which played through the conclusion of that league's 2010 season.
The MLS team is the third to share the legacy of the Whitecaps name. In the 2012 season, the team’s second in the MLS, the Whitecaps became the first Canadian team to qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs
About MLS SuperDraft
The MLS SuperDraft is an annual event, taking place in January of each year, in which the Major League Soccer teams select players who have graduated from college or otherwise been signed by the league.
The SuperDraft was first instituted in 2000, as a combination of the MLS College Draft, in which players having graduated from college were selected, and the MLS Supplemental Draft, in which all other players were chosen.
The draft is divided into three rounds in which each club has a selection, the order of which is determined by a combination of the teams’ playoff and regular season positions, with the last placed team (or expansion teams) getting the first pick.
Yankuba 'Mal' Ceesay on trial at Leyton Orient
Yankuba 'Mal' Ceesay
18th January 2013
Gambia international midfielder Yankuba ‘Mal’ Ceesay is currently on trial at English League One club Leyton Orient FC, Gam Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Mal, 28, joins the team on trial with the Estonian Meistriliiga season not starting till March 2nd. He has spent a year of his two-year contract with JK Nõmme Kalju and won the league title last season – the club’s maiden Estonian title.
The Gambian midfielder will be looking to impress Leyton Orient boss Russell Slade who could offer him a deal before the closure of the January transfer window.
The club, which lost its FA Cup tie against Hull City 2-1, currently lie 15th in the 24-team League One table with 35 points.
Ceesay started his footballing career with GFA First Division side Wallidan FC in 2004 before moving to Peru to play for Club Alianza Atlético Sullana where he became the first Gambian to play professional football in Latin America.
Mal spent a year at the Peruvian club before having a brief trial with English League One side Walsall FC but was unsuccessful to land himself a deal. In 2008, it was announced that he has joined Swedish Superettan [second tier] side Degerfors IF. He had his first cap for the Gambia national football team in a match against Senegal.
Gambia international midfielder Yankuba ‘Mal’ Ceesay is currently on trial at English League One club Leyton Orient FC, Gam Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Mal, 28, joins the team on trial with the Estonian Meistriliiga season not starting till March 2nd. He has spent a year of his two-year contract with JK Nõmme Kalju and won the league title last season – the club’s maiden Estonian title.
The Gambian midfielder will be looking to impress Leyton Orient boss Russell Slade who could offer him a deal before the closure of the January transfer window.
The club, which lost its FA Cup tie against Hull City 2-1, currently lie 15th in the 24-team League One table with 35 points.
Ceesay started his footballing career with GFA First Division side Wallidan FC in 2004 before moving to Peru to play for Club Alianza Atlético Sullana where he became the first Gambian to play professional football in Latin America.
Mal spent a year at the Peruvian club before having a brief trial with English League One side Walsall FC but was unsuccessful to land himself a deal. In 2008, it was announced that he has joined Swedish Superettan [second tier] side Degerfors IF. He had his first cap for the Gambia national football team in a match against Senegal.
Alagie Sosseh joins AFC United
Sosseh with coach Valeri Bondarenko
9th January 2013
Gambia international Alagie Sosseh has joined Swedish Division 1 Norra [third tier] side AFC United on a two-year contract, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
Sosseh was left a free agent after his release by another Division 1 Norra club IK Sirius in November, but the final touches had been completed to seal him a two-year deal with Athletic Football Club United.
The Gambian joined Sirius after being among six players released by Väsby United [now AFC United], after the club relegated to the third division but has joined the club again after he was deemed surplus to requirements at Sirius.
AFC United’s sports director Hamid Kabodvand said that the acquisition of the 6ft 2in striker will boost their chances of winning promotion to the Superettan.
“Alagie will be an important player for our new team building, not only for his football qualities but also his motivation and ambition to succeed with AFC United,” Kabodvand told Fotbolltransfers.com.
Sosseh who had had impressive spells at the Allvenskan [top tier], Superettan [second tier] and the third division, is added to AFC United’s club roster as a striker.
The 26-year-old Gambian, who has seven appearances to his merit for the Scorpions of The Gambia, can also be deployed either as an attacker or a defender.
About AFC United
AFC United is a Swedish football club located in Upplands Väsby in Stockholm County. The club is in close cooperation with Division 3 club Athletic FC.
Väsby United
Football Club Väsby United was formed in 2005 when the two Stockholm clubs FC Café Opera United and Väsby IK merged. The new club replaced FC Café Opera United in the Superettan making it the youngest club competing at this level. Väsby United was a feeder club to AIK. They participated mainly in the upper divisions of the Swedish football league system and the club played in Division 1 Norra – which is the third tier of Swedish football when they became AFC United.
AFC United
AFC United was founded when FC Väsby United increased their cooperation Division 3 club Athletic FC in late 2012. They play their home matches at the 4,000 capacity Vilundavallen in Upplands Väsby. The club is affiliated to Stockholms Fotbollförbund [one of the 24 district organisations of the Swedish Football Association that administers lower tier football in Stockholm County].
Gambia international Alagie Sosseh has joined Swedish Division 1 Norra [third tier] side AFC United on a two-year contract, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
Sosseh was left a free agent after his release by another Division 1 Norra club IK Sirius in November, but the final touches had been completed to seal him a two-year deal with Athletic Football Club United.
The Gambian joined Sirius after being among six players released by Väsby United [now AFC United], after the club relegated to the third division but has joined the club again after he was deemed surplus to requirements at Sirius.
AFC United’s sports director Hamid Kabodvand said that the acquisition of the 6ft 2in striker will boost their chances of winning promotion to the Superettan.
“Alagie will be an important player for our new team building, not only for his football qualities but also his motivation and ambition to succeed with AFC United,” Kabodvand told Fotbolltransfers.com.
Sosseh who had had impressive spells at the Allvenskan [top tier], Superettan [second tier] and the third division, is added to AFC United’s club roster as a striker.
The 26-year-old Gambian, who has seven appearances to his merit for the Scorpions of The Gambia, can also be deployed either as an attacker or a defender.
About AFC United
AFC United is a Swedish football club located in Upplands Väsby in Stockholm County. The club is in close cooperation with Division 3 club Athletic FC.
Väsby United
Football Club Väsby United was formed in 2005 when the two Stockholm clubs FC Café Opera United and Väsby IK merged. The new club replaced FC Café Opera United in the Superettan making it the youngest club competing at this level. Väsby United was a feeder club to AIK. They participated mainly in the upper divisions of the Swedish football league system and the club played in Division 1 Norra – which is the third tier of Swedish football when they became AFC United.
AFC United
AFC United was founded when FC Väsby United increased their cooperation Division 3 club Athletic FC in late 2012. They play their home matches at the 4,000 capacity Vilundavallen in Upplands Väsby. The club is affiliated to Stockholms Fotbollförbund [one of the 24 district organisations of the Swedish Football Association that administers lower tier football in Stockholm County].
Pa Saikou scores as Hibernian U20 continue winning streak
Pa Saikou Kujabi
4th January 2013
Gambia international defender Pa Saikou Kujabi helped the Hibernian Under 20 continue their winning streak by scoring a goal in the Scottish Premier League U20 match and guiding them to a 3-1 victory over Dundee at Dens Park.
Pa Saikou joined strikers Danny Handling and Euan Smith in helping the young Hibs side collect their fourth consecutive win in the league and firing them up to fourth in the 15-league U20 table.
The Hibs side had goalkeeper Sean Murdoch sent off late on but goalscorer Handling took up the responsibility and his first task as stand-in goalkeeper was to face a penalty kick, which he almost saved.
Hibernian’s Head of Academy Coaching James McDonaugh praised his team for their fourth consecutive league win, but stressed the players can perform better.
"Handling, Kujabi and Euan Smith got our goals which I felt, we more than deserved. The biggest thing was we were two minutes away from four consecutive clean sheets in the league but we defended poorly for one moment and it cost us. Overall we played to an acceptable standard, but we can and will play better."
Pa Saikou, 26, is yet to play for the Hibernian first team this season with his last game coming on the 28 August in a game against Queen of the South in the second round of the Scottish League Cup – a match which the team lost 2-0.
It could be recalled that the Gambian went on trial to the Scottish Premier League side in January and on the 31st January, it was announced he had signed an 18-month contract with the club.
He made his first appearance for Hibernian in a 1-0 victory against Kilmarnock on 4 February and was sent off in the 2012 Scottish Cup Final against Hearts, early in the second half – since then, he has fallen down the pecking order at The Cabbage.
Gambia international defender Pa Saikou Kujabi helped the Hibernian Under 20 continue their winning streak by scoring a goal in the Scottish Premier League U20 match and guiding them to a 3-1 victory over Dundee at Dens Park.
Pa Saikou joined strikers Danny Handling and Euan Smith in helping the young Hibs side collect their fourth consecutive win in the league and firing them up to fourth in the 15-league U20 table.
The Hibs side had goalkeeper Sean Murdoch sent off late on but goalscorer Handling took up the responsibility and his first task as stand-in goalkeeper was to face a penalty kick, which he almost saved.
Hibernian’s Head of Academy Coaching James McDonaugh praised his team for their fourth consecutive league win, but stressed the players can perform better.
"Handling, Kujabi and Euan Smith got our goals which I felt, we more than deserved. The biggest thing was we were two minutes away from four consecutive clean sheets in the league but we defended poorly for one moment and it cost us. Overall we played to an acceptable standard, but we can and will play better."
Pa Saikou, 26, is yet to play for the Hibernian first team this season with his last game coming on the 28 August in a game against Queen of the South in the second round of the Scottish League Cup – a match which the team lost 2-0.
It could be recalled that the Gambian went on trial to the Scottish Premier League side in January and on the 31st January, it was announced he had signed an 18-month contract with the club.
He made his first appearance for Hibernian in a 1-0 victory against Kilmarnock on 4 February and was sent off in the 2012 Scottish Cup Final against Hearts, early in the second half – since then, he has fallen down the pecking order at The Cabbage.
Zico’s Žilina sacks coach
Zico's Žilina sack Adelaar
4th January 2013
Gambia international striker Momodou ‘Zico’ Ceesay’s Slovakian Corgoň Liga club MŠK Žilina have fired their Dutch coach Frans Adelaar after a string of poor showings, the club said on its website on Friday.
The 52-year-old Adelaar took charge of the team in April 2012 and led it to Slovak league and cup victories last season.
But in autumn, Žilina slipped to fifth place in Slovakia’s 12-team top flight, trailing leaders ŠK Slovan Bratislava by eight points.
MŠK Žilina, Slovakia’s six-time champions, said that assistant coach Štefan Tarkovič would lead the team until July when he is due to be replaced by Adrián Guľa from Slovak top-flight side FK AS Trenčín.
Gambia international striker Momodou ‘Zico’ Ceesay’s Slovakian Corgoň Liga club MŠK Žilina have fired their Dutch coach Frans Adelaar after a string of poor showings, the club said on its website on Friday.
The 52-year-old Adelaar took charge of the team in April 2012 and led it to Slovak league and cup victories last season.
But in autumn, Žilina slipped to fifth place in Slovakia’s 12-team top flight, trailing leaders ŠK Slovan Bratislava by eight points.
MŠK Žilina, Slovakia’s six-time champions, said that assistant coach Štefan Tarkovič would lead the team until July when he is due to be replaced by Adrián Guľa from Slovak top-flight side FK AS Trenčín.
Omar Jagne joins Dalkurd
Omar Jagne
28th December 2012
Gambian youngster Omar Jagne has signed a three-year contract with Swedish Division 1 [third tier] side Dalkurd FF, Gambia Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Gambia Sports Online last week revealed that the 20-year-old Gambian striker was offered a lucrative offer by the Swedish club having shown great interest in him and he has now accepted by sealing a deal which will see him stay at the Borlänge-based side until 2015.
Last year, the striker dropped the interest Dalkurd had in him claiming that the contract offered to him doesn’t favor him nor is he interested but the club tabled an improved contract offer to which he agreed.
"Omar has been considered for Dalkurd for over a year, so it is gratifying that it is now clear. He is a player with great potential and we believe we can develop him further in Dalkurd," club Sports Director Diljen Otlu told Fotbolltransfers.com
The Gambian had an impressive outing with Division 2 [fourth tier] side Falu FK last season where he was deployed as a striker netting seven times in 23 games.
Jagne hopes to take after his brother and Scorpion goal-poacher Njogu Demba who has fared for Gambia at national level and is yet to put his foot off the pedal at club competition. He caught the eyes of Dalkurd when he scored a hat-trick against them in a friendly while on trial at Superettan side IK Brage.
About Dalkurd FF
Dalkurd FF is a Swedish football club, located in Borlänge, Sweden. The club was formed in 2004 by Kurdish immigrants. It started in Division 7, Sweden’s next lowest division, in 2005 and is best known for their record-fast trip to Division 1, Sweden’s third highest league, winning every division they had participated in from their debut season in 2005 to 2009 and thus being awarded promotion to the next division during all of these five years.
The sequence came to an end in 2010, when they finished 6th in the Division 1 Norra and thus missed promotion but remained in the Division 1 Norra for the 2011 season, where they finished 4th. They ended the 2012 season on 8th position with 34 points. Dalkurd FF is affiliated to the Dalarnas Fotbollförbund, one of the 24 district organisations of the Swedish Football Association that administers lower tier football in the historical province of Dalarna.
Gambian youngster Omar Jagne has signed a three-year contract with Swedish Division 1 [third tier] side Dalkurd FF, Gambia Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Gambia Sports Online last week revealed that the 20-year-old Gambian striker was offered a lucrative offer by the Swedish club having shown great interest in him and he has now accepted by sealing a deal which will see him stay at the Borlänge-based side until 2015.
Last year, the striker dropped the interest Dalkurd had in him claiming that the contract offered to him doesn’t favor him nor is he interested but the club tabled an improved contract offer to which he agreed.
"Omar has been considered for Dalkurd for over a year, so it is gratifying that it is now clear. He is a player with great potential and we believe we can develop him further in Dalkurd," club Sports Director Diljen Otlu told Fotbolltransfers.com
The Gambian had an impressive outing with Division 2 [fourth tier] side Falu FK last season where he was deployed as a striker netting seven times in 23 games.
Jagne hopes to take after his brother and Scorpion goal-poacher Njogu Demba who has fared for Gambia at national level and is yet to put his foot off the pedal at club competition. He caught the eyes of Dalkurd when he scored a hat-trick against them in a friendly while on trial at Superettan side IK Brage.
About Dalkurd FF
Dalkurd FF is a Swedish football club, located in Borlänge, Sweden. The club was formed in 2004 by Kurdish immigrants. It started in Division 7, Sweden’s next lowest division, in 2005 and is best known for their record-fast trip to Division 1, Sweden’s third highest league, winning every division they had participated in from their debut season in 2005 to 2009 and thus being awarded promotion to the next division during all of these five years.
The sequence came to an end in 2010, when they finished 6th in the Division 1 Norra and thus missed promotion but remained in the Division 1 Norra for the 2011 season, where they finished 4th. They ended the 2012 season on 8th position with 34 points. Dalkurd FF is affiliated to the Dalarnas Fotbollförbund, one of the 24 district organisations of the Swedish Football Association that administers lower tier football in the historical province of Dalarna.
CAF appoints Liberian to inspect Gambia facilities
Confederation of African Football
28th December 2012
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Liberian Andy Quarmie to serve as “CAF Inspector” to appraise sports facilities in the Gambia from the 7th to the 14th of January 2013.
The CAF inspector’s visit, which includes hotels and the stadium, is in the framework of club a licensing system. G. Andy Quarmie, who is currently serving as Senior Vice, President for Premier League outfit Watanga FC and Chairman of the Liberia Premier League Board, was commissioned by CAF two days to his graduation, from the University of Liberia, for his Masters in Public Administration Degree.
Quarmie, who is also a CAF Match Commissioner has been assigned to the Gambia, and is expected to inspect Gambian sports facilities from the 7th to the 14th of January 2013.
According to the assignment, he will inspect all stadiums and hotels which will be used by clubs from different countries partaking in the interclub competitions of 2013.
During his inspection, the following persons must be present, according to CAF’s letter for the sake of smooth running of the visits: The Gambia Football Association’s Secretary General; a representative from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and General Manager of the Independence stadium. Others are a bilingual liaison officer, a security officer and a technician.
The letter of authority to Mr. Quarmie, under the signature of CAF Deputy General Secretary Essam Ahmed wrote: “Reference to our previous circulars concerning the application of the club licensing system, we would like to inform you that CAF shall be conducting a new registration process of stadiums and hotels used by clubs partaking in the interclub competitions of 2013.”
“These visits shall start on January 7th 2013 and end on January 14th 2013. The inspector’s travel and accommodation expenses shall be borne by CAF and your National Association shall be responsible for the local transportation and the accompaniment of CAF inspector in order to facilitate his mission.”
“Kindly note that Mr. Andy Quarmie (Liberia) will be CAF Inspector in your country on the occasion of this mission,” CAF’s letter, which was made available to Gambia Sports Online by Liberian journalist Leroy Sonpon, said.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Liberian Andy Quarmie to serve as “CAF Inspector” to appraise sports facilities in the Gambia from the 7th to the 14th of January 2013.
The CAF inspector’s visit, which includes hotels and the stadium, is in the framework of club a licensing system. G. Andy Quarmie, who is currently serving as Senior Vice, President for Premier League outfit Watanga FC and Chairman of the Liberia Premier League Board, was commissioned by CAF two days to his graduation, from the University of Liberia, for his Masters in Public Administration Degree.
Quarmie, who is also a CAF Match Commissioner has been assigned to the Gambia, and is expected to inspect Gambian sports facilities from the 7th to the 14th of January 2013.
According to the assignment, he will inspect all stadiums and hotels which will be used by clubs from different countries partaking in the interclub competitions of 2013.
During his inspection, the following persons must be present, according to CAF’s letter for the sake of smooth running of the visits: The Gambia Football Association’s Secretary General; a representative from the Ministry of Youth and Sports and General Manager of the Independence stadium. Others are a bilingual liaison officer, a security officer and a technician.
The letter of authority to Mr. Quarmie, under the signature of CAF Deputy General Secretary Essam Ahmed wrote: “Reference to our previous circulars concerning the application of the club licensing system, we would like to inform you that CAF shall be conducting a new registration process of stadiums and hotels used by clubs partaking in the interclub competitions of 2013.”
“These visits shall start on January 7th 2013 and end on January 14th 2013. The inspector’s travel and accommodation expenses shall be borne by CAF and your National Association shall be responsible for the local transportation and the accompaniment of CAF inspector in order to facilitate his mission.”
“Kindly note that Mr. Andy Quarmie (Liberia) will be CAF Inspector in your country on the occasion of this mission,” CAF’s letter, which was made available to Gambia Sports Online by Liberian journalist Leroy Sonpon, said.
Gambia holds Angola to draw
Scorpions
16th December 2012
Gambia’s home based Scorpions on Saturday 15th December, 2012 held Angola’s Palancas Negras to a one all draw at the Estádio Nacional de Ombaka.
Angola despite gaining luxury of possession could only score from a spot kick when defender Foday Saidy parried an ensuing goal with bare hands. Amandio Felipe Dacosta converted the kick to lead the home side ahead at 13mins into the play.
The Gambia Ports Authority defender was eventually sent off for what the referee adjudged to be deliberate. The Gambia deficit numerically during the play with a man and time for coach Luciano Mancini and his assistant Peter Bonu Johnson to effect changes. Defender Antou Badjan was brought in to strengthen the back while Modou Jallow moved to replace Modou Lamin Sawo in the upright centre just a little behind Hamza Barry.
Angola’s Bartolemou, who trades his football in Brazil, continued to provide the lovely assists for dreadlocked Adriano Nicolaus who mesmerizes the Abdou Jammeh alias Tea Boy lead defence but only Emmanuel Gomez could dispossess him a little. Adriano spoiled for the second time two clear scoring chances one with a coiling header that aroused spectator applause.
As the clock ticked faster, the Palancas Negras continued to pose threats at the Scorpions defence as a lose effort from Tea Boy sluggishly placed the ball to his opponent but goalkeeper Alhagie Jobe finger tipped the ball for a corner which lessened the Scorpions’ worries for an added goal.
The Gambia resumed business with substitutions in goalkeeper Christopher Allen to replace Jobe alias Toldo who complained of neck stiff while nimble footed Dawda Sisoho could only replace Ousman Sillah whose performance on the night was only a nightmare. Midfielder Hamza Barry runs through from the centre to upfront but for many a time, the lad was easily stopped and lazily falls to the ground.
Quarter way into the second period, The Gambia found its true colours and time now for another GPA player Saloum Faal to equal the scoring when Christopher Allen sent a wider shot that dropped in between two Angolan defenders and Saloum ran athletically to slot at the bottom left corner leaving goalkeeper Luis Mamona Joao desperate..
Angola been dedicated at the middle sealed Gambia’s Modou Jallow and tired legs Hamza Barry and resort to pushing harder for a win before the show up of time added on. However, maverick Demba Sanyang and Bakau United’s Amat Njie came in to spoil what could have been a whole night party for the Palancas Negras.
Nonetheless, as the roaring mounts from the stands, Angola nearly caused an upset when new entrant Manuel Afonso alias Ary released a wicked coiler but Gambia’s man between the sticks parried it and denied the home fans broad smiles.
The match finally ended one all and after the game, Scorpions’ Head Coach Luciano Mancini at the post match press conference said the local team needs commendation as they have put up a brave fight against the Angolans. He said the match is very important for both countries and that he is happy with the performance of the young lads.
Quizzed about the hand ball that resulted to the sending off his defender Foday Saidy and eventual penalty shoot, the Italian born coach said ‘It’s part of football’.
Gambia’s home based Scorpions on Saturday 15th December, 2012 held Angola’s Palancas Negras to a one all draw at the Estádio Nacional de Ombaka.
Angola despite gaining luxury of possession could only score from a spot kick when defender Foday Saidy parried an ensuing goal with bare hands. Amandio Felipe Dacosta converted the kick to lead the home side ahead at 13mins into the play.
The Gambia Ports Authority defender was eventually sent off for what the referee adjudged to be deliberate. The Gambia deficit numerically during the play with a man and time for coach Luciano Mancini and his assistant Peter Bonu Johnson to effect changes. Defender Antou Badjan was brought in to strengthen the back while Modou Jallow moved to replace Modou Lamin Sawo in the upright centre just a little behind Hamza Barry.
Angola’s Bartolemou, who trades his football in Brazil, continued to provide the lovely assists for dreadlocked Adriano Nicolaus who mesmerizes the Abdou Jammeh alias Tea Boy lead defence but only Emmanuel Gomez could dispossess him a little. Adriano spoiled for the second time two clear scoring chances one with a coiling header that aroused spectator applause.
As the clock ticked faster, the Palancas Negras continued to pose threats at the Scorpions defence as a lose effort from Tea Boy sluggishly placed the ball to his opponent but goalkeeper Alhagie Jobe finger tipped the ball for a corner which lessened the Scorpions’ worries for an added goal.
The Gambia resumed business with substitutions in goalkeeper Christopher Allen to replace Jobe alias Toldo who complained of neck stiff while nimble footed Dawda Sisoho could only replace Ousman Sillah whose performance on the night was only a nightmare. Midfielder Hamza Barry runs through from the centre to upfront but for many a time, the lad was easily stopped and lazily falls to the ground.
Quarter way into the second period, The Gambia found its true colours and time now for another GPA player Saloum Faal to equal the scoring when Christopher Allen sent a wider shot that dropped in between two Angolan defenders and Saloum ran athletically to slot at the bottom left corner leaving goalkeeper Luis Mamona Joao desperate..
Angola been dedicated at the middle sealed Gambia’s Modou Jallow and tired legs Hamza Barry and resort to pushing harder for a win before the show up of time added on. However, maverick Demba Sanyang and Bakau United’s Amat Njie came in to spoil what could have been a whole night party for the Palancas Negras.
Nonetheless, as the roaring mounts from the stands, Angola nearly caused an upset when new entrant Manuel Afonso alias Ary released a wicked coiler but Gambia’s man between the sticks parried it and denied the home fans broad smiles.
The match finally ended one all and after the game, Scorpions’ Head Coach Luciano Mancini at the post match press conference said the local team needs commendation as they have put up a brave fight against the Angolans. He said the match is very important for both countries and that he is happy with the performance of the young lads.
Quizzed about the hand ball that resulted to the sending off his defender Foday Saidy and eventual penalty shoot, the Italian born coach said ‘It’s part of football’.
Bolton keen on Gambian winger
Dawda Leigh
6th December 2012
English Championship side Bolton are lining up a deal for Gambian winger Dawda Leigh, who is a free agent after leaving Norwegian Adeccoligaen [second-tier] side Sandefjord.
A conservative, British daily middle-market tabloid newspaper, Daily Mail, claims that manager Dougie Freedman have lined up an offer for the Norwegian-born Gambian winger Dawda Leigh, 26.
Leigh has been playing in Norway for the whole of his career and after spending 2009 until last August with hometown side Vålerenga, he signed with Adeccoligaen side Sandefjord, who have Tijan Jaiteh in their books, in hopes of getting more playing time.
Sandefjord CEO Arne Dokken described him as a fast winger, with good dribbling ability, physically strong, with good foot speed and technique. Apparently, Dougie Freedman had his eyes on Leigh while managing Crystal Palace, early in his career.
Dawda was a staple of the first XI in his first season at Vålerenga, stating nine of the first ten games. Unfortunately for him, it quickly dropped off and he played barely over 152 minutes the whole of the next season (with Vålerenga finishing runners up to champions Rosenborg in the final table). It didn’t get much better over the next two seasons and Leigh decided to restart at a lower level.
After signing with Sandefjord in August, Leigh played in all of the remaining matches to close the season out. Sandefjord finished the season in third place of the second division but lost in the promotion playoff to the eventual playoff winners, Ullensaker/Kisa, who eventually were defeated in the relegation playoff to Sandnes Ulf, who would remain in the top flight.
Meanwhile, Leigh has cooled talk of him heading to the Reebok on a free transfer though his representative Aadel Aouragh claims that he has been in contact with Bolton and several other English clubs.
"The discussion [with Bolton] has been going pretty good so far, but it’s hard to say anything as long as we have not got anything concrete. It's not just Bolton who are interested, but we have to have something concrete," Aouragh said.
"We have spoken to 4-5 English clubs that has shown interest in Dawda and they have been following him while he was in Norway," Aouragh added.
About Bolton
Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in the area of Horwich in the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton, Greater Manchester and who play in the Football League Championship. Founder members of the Football League, Bolton were a successful cup side in the 1920s, winning the FA Cup three times. The club won the cup a fourth time in 1958. A leaner spell followed, reaching a nadir in 1987 when the club spent a season in the Fourth Division. The club regained top-flight status in 1995 after a 15-year absence.
In 2005–06 they participated in European competition for the first time, reaching the last 32 of the UEFA Cup. Bolton qualified for the 2007–08 tournament by finishing 7th in the 2006–07 Premier League season and reached the last 16 of the competition. Bolton Wanderers moved to the Reebok Stadium in 1997. Their former home was Burnden Park, where they played for 102 years. Bolton have spent the highest number of seasons in the top flight without winning the title (the 2011–12 season was their 73rd, non-consecutive year in the top flight).
The highest position they have achieved in the top flight is third in the Football League First Division on three occasions (1891–92, 1920–21 and 1924–25). Their latest spell in the Premier League began in 2001 and ended when they were relegated to the Football League Championship on 13 May 2012.
English Championship side Bolton are lining up a deal for Gambian winger Dawda Leigh, who is a free agent after leaving Norwegian Adeccoligaen [second-tier] side Sandefjord.
A conservative, British daily middle-market tabloid newspaper, Daily Mail, claims that manager Dougie Freedman have lined up an offer for the Norwegian-born Gambian winger Dawda Leigh, 26.
Leigh has been playing in Norway for the whole of his career and after spending 2009 until last August with hometown side Vålerenga, he signed with Adeccoligaen side Sandefjord, who have Tijan Jaiteh in their books, in hopes of getting more playing time.
Sandefjord CEO Arne Dokken described him as a fast winger, with good dribbling ability, physically strong, with good foot speed and technique. Apparently, Dougie Freedman had his eyes on Leigh while managing Crystal Palace, early in his career.
Dawda was a staple of the first XI in his first season at Vålerenga, stating nine of the first ten games. Unfortunately for him, it quickly dropped off and he played barely over 152 minutes the whole of the next season (with Vålerenga finishing runners up to champions Rosenborg in the final table). It didn’t get much better over the next two seasons and Leigh decided to restart at a lower level.
After signing with Sandefjord in August, Leigh played in all of the remaining matches to close the season out. Sandefjord finished the season in third place of the second division but lost in the promotion playoff to the eventual playoff winners, Ullensaker/Kisa, who eventually were defeated in the relegation playoff to Sandnes Ulf, who would remain in the top flight.
Meanwhile, Leigh has cooled talk of him heading to the Reebok on a free transfer though his representative Aadel Aouragh claims that he has been in contact with Bolton and several other English clubs.
"The discussion [with Bolton] has been going pretty good so far, but it’s hard to say anything as long as we have not got anything concrete. It's not just Bolton who are interested, but we have to have something concrete," Aouragh said.
"We have spoken to 4-5 English clubs that has shown interest in Dawda and they have been following him while he was in Norway," Aouragh added.
About Bolton
Bolton Wanderers Football Club is an English professional football club based in the area of Horwich in the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton, Greater Manchester and who play in the Football League Championship. Founder members of the Football League, Bolton were a successful cup side in the 1920s, winning the FA Cup three times. The club won the cup a fourth time in 1958. A leaner spell followed, reaching a nadir in 1987 when the club spent a season in the Fourth Division. The club regained top-flight status in 1995 after a 15-year absence.
In 2005–06 they participated in European competition for the first time, reaching the last 32 of the UEFA Cup. Bolton qualified for the 2007–08 tournament by finishing 7th in the 2006–07 Premier League season and reached the last 16 of the competition. Bolton Wanderers moved to the Reebok Stadium in 1997. Their former home was Burnden Park, where they played for 102 years. Bolton have spent the highest number of seasons in the top flight without winning the title (the 2011–12 season was their 73rd, non-consecutive year in the top flight).
The highest position they have achieved in the top flight is third in the Football League First Division on three occasions (1891–92, 1920–21 and 1924–25). Their latest spell in the Premier League began in 2001 and ended when they were relegated to the Football League Championship on 13 May 2012.
Brommapojkarna part ways with Aziz Corr
Aziz Corr Nyang
19th November 2012
Promoted-Swedish Allsvenskan side IF Brommapojkarna have decided to part ways with creative Gambian winger Aziz Corr Nyang after just a year at the club, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
Aziz Corr Nyang, 28, made his loan move to the Stockholm-based side permanent after Brommapojkarna and parent club GIF Sundsvall agreed to make his move permanent in January.
The Gambia international joined the team on loan from Sundsvall last season and before his move, he stated that he does not want to return back to Sundsvall despite having a year left on his contract and later on agreed terms with Brommapojkarna for a one year contract with an option to extend.
Brommapojkarna has now chosen not to activate that clause in the contract and has decided to part ways with Aziz Corr and two other players in Nicklas Carlsson and Nabil Bahoui. Aziz played 12 games this season without finding the back of the net and his last game for the team came back in September in the team’s 1-0 loss to Ljungskile.
Fotbolltransfers quoted Brommapojkarna’s coach Roberth Björknesjö as saying; “We are working hard to strengthen the squad. But for the day, we have no clear name [to replace Aziz Corr].”
Promoted-Swedish Allsvenskan side IF Brommapojkarna have decided to part ways with creative Gambian winger Aziz Corr Nyang after just a year at the club, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
Aziz Corr Nyang, 28, made his loan move to the Stockholm-based side permanent after Brommapojkarna and parent club GIF Sundsvall agreed to make his move permanent in January.
The Gambia international joined the team on loan from Sundsvall last season and before his move, he stated that he does not want to return back to Sundsvall despite having a year left on his contract and later on agreed terms with Brommapojkarna for a one year contract with an option to extend.
Brommapojkarna has now chosen not to activate that clause in the contract and has decided to part ways with Aziz Corr and two other players in Nicklas Carlsson and Nabil Bahoui. Aziz played 12 games this season without finding the back of the net and his last game for the team came back in September in the team’s 1-0 loss to Ljungskile.
Fotbolltransfers quoted Brommapojkarna’s coach Roberth Björknesjö as saying; “We are working hard to strengthen the squad. But for the day, we have no clear name [to replace Aziz Corr].”
Kandji’s Dynamo book Galaxy final
Macoumba Kandji
19th November 2012
Gambia-hopeful Macoumba Kandji and his Houston Dynamo set up a rematch with LA Galaxy in the final of the MLS Cup Playoffs after both teams prevailed in the semi-finals on Sunday.
Kandji’s Houston managed a 1-1 draw away to DC United in the second leg of their tie on Sunday, enough for a 4-2 aggregate win and a place in the season decider on December 1.
Later the same day, Galaxy went down 2-1 away to Seattle Sounders, but still advanced to the final, also winning 4-2 on aggregate.
LA and Houston met in the final of the 2011 MLS Cup, when Landon Donovan’s goal saw Galaxy win 1-0 and record their third championship victory in the competition's history.
Houston earned a shot at avenging that defeat thanks to Oscar Boniek Garcia’s 33rd-minute strike at RFK Stadium.
Branko Bošković got one back for DC with seven minutes remaining, but it arrived too late for the home side to mount a fight-back.
The hosts had started the match on the front foot, knowing they needed two goals to level the tie.
Houston though were up for the challenge and defended admirably, as Bobby Boswell and Jermaine Taylor helped control the centre of defence.
Midway through the first half, Houston grabbed a killer goal to nearly put the series out of reach.
Brad Davis dribbled through United’s back line and teed up Garcia, who made no mistake and blasted home from close range.
Houston produced a fair amount of chanced in the second half as well, the most dangerous of which was Mac Kandji’s point-blank shot that Hamid saved in the 76th minute. Kandji again had a couple chances to extend the Dynamo’s lead, but failed to convert either of his 1-v-1 opportunities.
Gambia-hopeful Macoumba Kandji and his Houston Dynamo set up a rematch with LA Galaxy in the final of the MLS Cup Playoffs after both teams prevailed in the semi-finals on Sunday.
Kandji’s Houston managed a 1-1 draw away to DC United in the second leg of their tie on Sunday, enough for a 4-2 aggregate win and a place in the season decider on December 1.
Later the same day, Galaxy went down 2-1 away to Seattle Sounders, but still advanced to the final, also winning 4-2 on aggregate.
LA and Houston met in the final of the 2011 MLS Cup, when Landon Donovan’s goal saw Galaxy win 1-0 and record their third championship victory in the competition's history.
Houston earned a shot at avenging that defeat thanks to Oscar Boniek Garcia’s 33rd-minute strike at RFK Stadium.
Branko Bošković got one back for DC with seven minutes remaining, but it arrived too late for the home side to mount a fight-back.
The hosts had started the match on the front foot, knowing they needed two goals to level the tie.
Houston though were up for the challenge and defended admirably, as Bobby Boswell and Jermaine Taylor helped control the centre of defence.
Midway through the first half, Houston grabbed a killer goal to nearly put the series out of reach.
Brad Davis dribbled through United’s back line and teed up Garcia, who made no mistake and blasted home from close range.
Houston produced a fair amount of chanced in the second half as well, the most dangerous of which was Mac Kandji’s point-blank shot that Hamid saved in the 76th minute. Kandji again had a couple chances to extend the Dynamo’s lead, but failed to convert either of his 1-v-1 opportunities.
Koroma’s Rovers steer four past Stockport
OJ Koroma
12th November 2012
Gambia international Omar Koroma and his Forest Green Rovers surged to within three points of the Blue Square Bet Premier summit thanks to a roaring start at the New Lawn.
OJ Koroma came in as a 66 minute sub as Dave Hockaday’s side were three up inside 25 minutes though Yan Klukowski, a James Tunnicliffe own goal and James Norwood’s strike.
Sean Newton’s penalty 15 minutes from time never looked like more than a consolation, and it was left to Rovers substitute Reece Styche to have the final say.
The rout began when Klukowski pounced on a mistake by Jordan Fagbola and finished a direct run by nervelessly converting his ninth goal of the season.
Stockport found themselves two goals adrift when Klukowski’s inswinging corner was diverted into his own net by Tunnicliffe, and the third goal came on 25 minutes when Klukowski’s cross drew keeper Ian Ormson and gave Norwood a routine finish.
County were given an unlikely late foothold when substitute Tom Collins was tripped on the edge of the area and referee Brett Huxstable – after lengthy consultation with his assistant – pointed to the spot.
Newton duly sent Russell the wrong way to make life a little uneasier for the home faithful, but a handsome win was finally sealed when Stokes’ near post shot was blocked by Ormson and Styche gobbled up the rebound.
Gambia international Omar Koroma and his Forest Green Rovers surged to within three points of the Blue Square Bet Premier summit thanks to a roaring start at the New Lawn.
OJ Koroma came in as a 66 minute sub as Dave Hockaday’s side were three up inside 25 minutes though Yan Klukowski, a James Tunnicliffe own goal and James Norwood’s strike.
Sean Newton’s penalty 15 minutes from time never looked like more than a consolation, and it was left to Rovers substitute Reece Styche to have the final say.
The rout began when Klukowski pounced on a mistake by Jordan Fagbola and finished a direct run by nervelessly converting his ninth goal of the season.
Stockport found themselves two goals adrift when Klukowski’s inswinging corner was diverted into his own net by Tunnicliffe, and the third goal came on 25 minutes when Klukowski’s cross drew keeper Ian Ormson and gave Norwood a routine finish.
County were given an unlikely late foothold when substitute Tom Collins was tripped on the edge of the area and referee Brett Huxstable – after lengthy consultation with his assistant – pointed to the spot.
Newton duly sent Russell the wrong way to make life a little uneasier for the home faithful, but a handsome win was finally sealed when Stokes’ near post shot was blocked by Ormson and Styche gobbled up the rebound.
Matthew’s Balzan downs Ajax
Matthew Mendy
12th November 2012
Gambia international Matthew Mendy and his Balzan continued with their fine form of late with a 2-0 victory over Rabat Ajax in week 11 of the Maltese Premier League.
Jamie Pace and Elton earned Ivan Zammit’s side the three points to leapfrog Hamrun Spartans in the standings and move to seventh place, two points behind Tarxien Rainbows. Rooted to the bottom of the table, Rabat Ajax knew they would face a steep learning curve in the top-flight and a tall order to halt their negative run yesterday.
In fact, Balzan summed up the Magpies’ woes perfectly as Silvio Vella’s team are still searching their first win after 11 outings this season. Pedrinho was catching the eye with some attractive passing for Balzan who, however, lacked a cutting edge in the final third.
On the half-hour mark, the Brazilian delighted those present with some deft footwork to run into space but the alert Jonathan Azzopardi dived at his feet to avert danger.
Matthew as usual made his way to the Balzan team and delivered a fine cross in the 65th minute for Elton but the Brazilian attacker just placed his header wide.
The Gambian and his team hosts Hamrun Spartans [a team that Matthew debuted and scored against in the first leg of their fixture] next at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.
Gambia international Matthew Mendy and his Balzan continued with their fine form of late with a 2-0 victory over Rabat Ajax in week 11 of the Maltese Premier League.
Jamie Pace and Elton earned Ivan Zammit’s side the three points to leapfrog Hamrun Spartans in the standings and move to seventh place, two points behind Tarxien Rainbows. Rooted to the bottom of the table, Rabat Ajax knew they would face a steep learning curve in the top-flight and a tall order to halt their negative run yesterday.
In fact, Balzan summed up the Magpies’ woes perfectly as Silvio Vella’s team are still searching their first win after 11 outings this season. Pedrinho was catching the eye with some attractive passing for Balzan who, however, lacked a cutting edge in the final third.
On the half-hour mark, the Brazilian delighted those present with some deft footwork to run into space but the alert Jonathan Azzopardi dived at his feet to avert danger.
Matthew as usual made his way to the Balzan team and delivered a fine cross in the 65th minute for Elton but the Brazilian attacker just placed his header wide.
The Gambian and his team hosts Hamrun Spartans [a team that Matthew debuted and scored against in the first leg of their fixture] next at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.
Jagne’s Gallen falter at home against Sion
Nda
12th November 2012
Gambia international Pa Modou Jagne and St Gallen failed to take over at the top of the Swiss Super League on Sunday after suffering a shock 3-0 defeat at home to FC Sion.
Nda’s Gallen, who were hosting Sion at the AFG Arena, were reduced to 10 men after 37 minutes when Mario Mutsch saw red and never recovered.
Arnaud Bühler put Sion ahead within a minute and late goals from Didier Crettenand and Sébastien Wüthrich completed an emphatic win for Sion, who move three points behind St Gallen.
The Gambian has so far played 14 out of Gallen’s 15 games this season but is yet to find the back of the net for coach Jeff Saibene’s side.
Gambia international Pa Modou Jagne and St Gallen failed to take over at the top of the Swiss Super League on Sunday after suffering a shock 3-0 defeat at home to FC Sion.
Nda’s Gallen, who were hosting Sion at the AFG Arena, were reduced to 10 men after 37 minutes when Mario Mutsch saw red and never recovered.
Arnaud Bühler put Sion ahead within a minute and late goals from Didier Crettenand and Sébastien Wüthrich completed an emphatic win for Sion, who move three points behind St Gallen.
The Gambian has so far played 14 out of Gallen’s 15 games this season but is yet to find the back of the net for coach Jeff Saibene’s side.
Gambia down eleven places in FIFA ranking
Gambia continues fall in ranking
7th November 2012
The Gambia has slipped a further eleven places in the latest edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking list up to November 7, that has just been announced. It is now ranked 142nd overall among the 206 members of football’s world body.
This is due to the country’s lack of playing competitive matches since June with the last international game being played on June 15 – which was an Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 1st round qualifier against Algeria in which the Scorpions lost 4-1.
Gambia has been overtaken by World Cup qualifier opponents Tanzania, Morroco and Ivory Coast in both the world and continental rankings. The country has dropped four places in the CAF rankings to 42.
Ivory Coast remain as Africa’s top team overall, sitting comfortably in 15th position, while Algeria are placed four places below them at 19th.
There's no change to the four top places in the Confederation of African Football's list, with Ivory Coast, Algeria, Mali and Ghana holding their positions in that order. African champions Zambia leapfrogged over Egypt leapfrogged into fifth, while Tunisia kept their seventh spot followed by Central African Republic who upped a place for eighth to be followed by Gabon in ninth place followed by Nigeria in 10th.
World and European Champions Spain hold on to the leading position in a month that registered plenty of movement in the November 7 Ranking, following 77 qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, thus ensuring a number of changes compared to last month.
In the top 20, leaders Spain and second-placed Germany remain unchallenged at the top, with Argentina moving into third place following wins over Uruguay (11th, down 4) and Chile (21st, down 4) edging Portugal down to fourth.
Also benefiting from two victories are Italy (5th, up 3) and Russia (9th, up 3), the latter moving into the top ten for the first time since October 2010.
FIFA World Cup 2014 hosts Brazil, who thus have no potential points-earning qualifiers, managed to stay 13th thanks to two runaway wins in friendlies against Iraq (97th, down 17) and Japan (24th, down 1).
Six teams have reached their highest-ever position since the FIFA World Ranking was launched in 1993: Algeria (19th, up 5), Haiti (57th, up 3), Dominican Republic (92nd, up 10), St Kitts and Nevis (106th, up 16), Philippines (143rd, up 4) and Timor-Leste (187th, up 19).
The results of 146 'A' internationals have been taken into account on the current edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, of which more than half (77) were qualifiers for the next FIFA World Cup. 25 were CONCACAF/AFC continental qualifiers and 44 were friendlies.
The Gambia has slipped a further eleven places in the latest edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking list up to November 7, that has just been announced. It is now ranked 142nd overall among the 206 members of football’s world body.
This is due to the country’s lack of playing competitive matches since June with the last international game being played on June 15 – which was an Africa Cup of Nations Qualification 1st round qualifier against Algeria in which the Scorpions lost 4-1.
Gambia has been overtaken by World Cup qualifier opponents Tanzania, Morroco and Ivory Coast in both the world and continental rankings. The country has dropped four places in the CAF rankings to 42.
Ivory Coast remain as Africa’s top team overall, sitting comfortably in 15th position, while Algeria are placed four places below them at 19th.
There's no change to the four top places in the Confederation of African Football's list, with Ivory Coast, Algeria, Mali and Ghana holding their positions in that order. African champions Zambia leapfrogged over Egypt leapfrogged into fifth, while Tunisia kept their seventh spot followed by Central African Republic who upped a place for eighth to be followed by Gabon in ninth place followed by Nigeria in 10th.
World and European Champions Spain hold on to the leading position in a month that registered plenty of movement in the November 7 Ranking, following 77 qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, thus ensuring a number of changes compared to last month.
In the top 20, leaders Spain and second-placed Germany remain unchallenged at the top, with Argentina moving into third place following wins over Uruguay (11th, down 4) and Chile (21st, down 4) edging Portugal down to fourth.
Also benefiting from two victories are Italy (5th, up 3) and Russia (9th, up 3), the latter moving into the top ten for the first time since October 2010.
FIFA World Cup 2014 hosts Brazil, who thus have no potential points-earning qualifiers, managed to stay 13th thanks to two runaway wins in friendlies against Iraq (97th, down 17) and Japan (24th, down 1).
Six teams have reached their highest-ever position since the FIFA World Ranking was launched in 1993: Algeria (19th, up 5), Haiti (57th, up 3), Dominican Republic (92nd, up 10), St Kitts and Nevis (106th, up 16), Philippines (143rd, up 4) and Timor-Leste (187th, up 19).
The results of 146 'A' internationals have been taken into account on the current edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, of which more than half (77) were qualifiers for the next FIFA World Cup. 25 were CONCACAF/AFC continental qualifiers and 44 were friendlies.
Home form key to Jawo’s Elfsborg title win
Amadou Jawo
7th November 2012
While the current season is barely a third of the way through in Europe’s more prominent leagues, champions are already being crowned in Scandinavia. Hot on the heels of FH Hafnarfjordur in Iceland and Demba Savage’s HJK Helsinki in Finland come Amadou Jawo’s IF Elfsborg, who won the Swedish Allsvenskan following a gripping finale.
Hailing from the city of Borås, Amadou Jawo’s Elfsborg sealed their sixth championship triumph on matchday 30 after an impressive series of results in the title run-in. In their last game of the campaign, a 1-1 draw against Åtvidabergs FF was enough for Elfsborg after closest rivals Malmö FF lost 2-0 to AIK Solna. The newly installed champions ended the season on 59 points, two ahead of surprise package BK Häcken and three in front of Malmö.
Grandstand finale
Jawo’s Elfsborg only have themselves to blame for the anxious finale after throwing away an eight-point lead earned prior to the summer interlude. “Before the break we won seven games in a row,” coach Jörgen Lennartsson said. “We were unbelievably strong at the back and we didn’t need many chances to score up front. We were top of the league on 23 of the 30 matchdays, so I think we deserve to be [Swedish] champions.”
But nerves seemed to get the better of them in the second half of the season. Gradually the chasing pack clawed their way back into contention and seven games before the end, Häcken knocked Elfsborg off the league summit. Going into the home stretch, there was a three-way tussle for the title right until the final matchday, with Malmö also in the mix. The situation Lennartsson feared weeks beforehand had finally come true. “Häcken have a fantastic strike force, you can never write off Malmö and AIK [Solna] have the potential to play any opponent off the park. It’ll be a very close title race and it’ll probably only be decided on the last day of the season.”
Twelfth man counts
While his prediction was spot-on, Jawo’s Elfsborg fought back to win the championship for the first time since 2006. “We were top of the league on 23 of the 30 matchdays, so I think we deserve to be champions,” said Lennartsson, who led the side to glory in his first season at the helm. Elfsborg had been title contenders ever since their previous Allsvenskan triumph, but had only managed top-four finishes under predecessor Magnus Haglund who signed Jawo from Gefle.
Crucial to going the extra step this time was their home form. Lennartsson’s charges won 12 of their 15 games in front of their own fans and were the only side to remain undefeated on home soil all term. That return helped Elfsborg record the most victories of any team all season and it compensated for their shortcomings in other areas. Seven defeats on the road represents the joint-highest total among the top-four teams (along with Häcken), while the statistical honours of most goals scored, least conceded and best goal difference went to other sides.
While the current season is barely a third of the way through in Europe’s more prominent leagues, champions are already being crowned in Scandinavia. Hot on the heels of FH Hafnarfjordur in Iceland and Demba Savage’s HJK Helsinki in Finland come Amadou Jawo’s IF Elfsborg, who won the Swedish Allsvenskan following a gripping finale.
Hailing from the city of Borås, Amadou Jawo’s Elfsborg sealed their sixth championship triumph on matchday 30 after an impressive series of results in the title run-in. In their last game of the campaign, a 1-1 draw against Åtvidabergs FF was enough for Elfsborg after closest rivals Malmö FF lost 2-0 to AIK Solna. The newly installed champions ended the season on 59 points, two ahead of surprise package BK Häcken and three in front of Malmö.
Grandstand finale
Jawo’s Elfsborg only have themselves to blame for the anxious finale after throwing away an eight-point lead earned prior to the summer interlude. “Before the break we won seven games in a row,” coach Jörgen Lennartsson said. “We were unbelievably strong at the back and we didn’t need many chances to score up front. We were top of the league on 23 of the 30 matchdays, so I think we deserve to be [Swedish] champions.”
But nerves seemed to get the better of them in the second half of the season. Gradually the chasing pack clawed their way back into contention and seven games before the end, Häcken knocked Elfsborg off the league summit. Going into the home stretch, there was a three-way tussle for the title right until the final matchday, with Malmö also in the mix. The situation Lennartsson feared weeks beforehand had finally come true. “Häcken have a fantastic strike force, you can never write off Malmö and AIK [Solna] have the potential to play any opponent off the park. It’ll be a very close title race and it’ll probably only be decided on the last day of the season.”
Twelfth man counts
While his prediction was spot-on, Jawo’s Elfsborg fought back to win the championship for the first time since 2006. “We were top of the league on 23 of the 30 matchdays, so I think we deserve to be champions,” said Lennartsson, who led the side to glory in his first season at the helm. Elfsborg had been title contenders ever since their previous Allsvenskan triumph, but had only managed top-four finishes under predecessor Magnus Haglund who signed Jawo from Gefle.
Crucial to going the extra step this time was their home form. Lennartsson’s charges won 12 of their 15 games in front of their own fans and were the only side to remain undefeated on home soil all term. That return helped Elfsborg record the most victories of any team all season and it compensated for their shortcomings in other areas. Seven defeats on the road represents the joint-highest total among the top-four teams (along with Häcken), while the statistical honours of most goals scored, least conceded and best goal difference went to other sides.
Sanna’s coach, Marsch, leaves Impact
Sanna Nyassi's coach, Marsch quits team
7th November 2012
The Montreal Impact of Sanna Nyassi has announced on Saturday morning that the club and head coach Jesse Marsch have mutually agreed to part ways.
Jesse Marsch stepped down as coach of Montreal Impact after guiding the club through its inaugural season in Major League Soccer.
"This is not a dismissal or a resignation, rather an amicable parting of ways," Impact president Joey Saputo said.
"While we had the same long-term objectives for this team, we realised over the past few weeks that we did not share the same philosophy as how to get there. Jesse always had the club at heart and he did his very best to succeed.
"With Jesse, we have put in place a good base for the future and we will now take all the necessary time and steps to find our next head coach."
Impact assistant coaches Mike Sorber, Denis Hamlett and Mauro Biello will guide the team in a tour of Italy that begins on Monday.
"I had several discussions on how we could make it work and the conclusion was that this amicable split is the best solution for the club going forward," Marsch said. Marsch is the coach who brought Sanna to Impact from Colorado Rapids.
The Montreal Impact of Sanna Nyassi has announced on Saturday morning that the club and head coach Jesse Marsch have mutually agreed to part ways.
Jesse Marsch stepped down as coach of Montreal Impact after guiding the club through its inaugural season in Major League Soccer.
"This is not a dismissal or a resignation, rather an amicable parting of ways," Impact president Joey Saputo said.
"While we had the same long-term objectives for this team, we realised over the past few weeks that we did not share the same philosophy as how to get there. Jesse always had the club at heart and he did his very best to succeed.
"With Jesse, we have put in place a good base for the future and we will now take all the necessary time and steps to find our next head coach."
Impact assistant coaches Mike Sorber, Denis Hamlett and Mauro Biello will guide the team in a tour of Italy that begins on Monday.
"I had several discussions on how we could make it work and the conclusion was that this amicable split is the best solution for the club going forward," Marsch said. Marsch is the coach who brought Sanna to Impact from Colorado Rapids.
Jawo’s Elfsborg wins sixth Allsvenskan title
Amadou Jawo kissing the Swedish Allsvenskan trophy
5th November 2012
Gambia-hopeful Amadou Jawo and his IF Elfsborg have claimed the Swedish Allsvenskan title for the sixth time in their history after claiming a 1-1 draw against Åtvidabergs FF on the final day of the season.
That stalemate meant Malmö FF could have pipped Elfsborg to glory with a victory in their match at AIK, but instead they fell to a 2-0 loss, allowing BK Häcken to finish runners-up and claim their best ever final position.
The last day of action looked set to provide a nail-biting conclusion to the league campaign, but in truth the suspense lasted little more than half an hour. Stefan Ishizaki put Elfsborg ahead against Åtvidaberg with 30 minutes gone in Boras, and shortly afterwards Mohamed Bangura gave AIK the lead against Malmö over in Solna.
The only team capable of catching Elfsborg, Malmö needed to beat AIK and hope Åtvidaberg could battle back against the leaders, but although Viktor Prodell cancelled out Elfsborg’s lead with 14 minutes remaining, Viktor Lundberg doubled Malmö’s deficit. As well as ending the title tension, Lundberg’s effort was the last ever Allsvenskan strike at Råsunda Stadium, which is due to be replaced by a new national arena 800 metres away.
The Gambian striker was one of Elfsborg’s most expensive player in the club’s history after joining from Gävle-based side Gefle IF in 2009. He played 14 games this season scoring two.
Jawo’s Elfsborg will now automatically enter the second qualifying round of the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League where 34 teams will play in the second qualifying round: the 3 winners from the first qualifying round and the following 31 teams which are expected to enter in this round.
Gambia-hopeful Amadou Jawo and his IF Elfsborg have claimed the Swedish Allsvenskan title for the sixth time in their history after claiming a 1-1 draw against Åtvidabergs FF on the final day of the season.
That stalemate meant Malmö FF could have pipped Elfsborg to glory with a victory in their match at AIK, but instead they fell to a 2-0 loss, allowing BK Häcken to finish runners-up and claim their best ever final position.
The last day of action looked set to provide a nail-biting conclusion to the league campaign, but in truth the suspense lasted little more than half an hour. Stefan Ishizaki put Elfsborg ahead against Åtvidaberg with 30 minutes gone in Boras, and shortly afterwards Mohamed Bangura gave AIK the lead against Malmö over in Solna.
The only team capable of catching Elfsborg, Malmö needed to beat AIK and hope Åtvidaberg could battle back against the leaders, but although Viktor Prodell cancelled out Elfsborg’s lead with 14 minutes remaining, Viktor Lundberg doubled Malmö’s deficit. As well as ending the title tension, Lundberg’s effort was the last ever Allsvenskan strike at Råsunda Stadium, which is due to be replaced by a new national arena 800 metres away.
The Gambian striker was one of Elfsborg’s most expensive player in the club’s history after joining from Gävle-based side Gefle IF in 2009. He played 14 games this season scoring two.
Jawo’s Elfsborg will now automatically enter the second qualifying round of the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League where 34 teams will play in the second qualifying round: the 3 winners from the first qualifying round and the following 31 teams which are expected to enter in this round.
Matthew’s solid Balzan frustrate Citizens
Matthew Mendy
5th November 2012
Gambia defender Matthew Mendy and his Maltese Premier League side Balzan FC continued on their positive run, earning a precious point as they managed to hold leaders Valletta to a 1-1 draw at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.
Balzan coach Ivan Zammit was buoyed by the return of Matthew Mendy who returned after serving a one-match ban.
Valletta tore out of the blocks and fashioned the first chance inside the first five minutes as Mifsud, profiting from some sloppy defending by Balzan, burst clear but his angled drive was cleared off the line by former Valletta midfielder. But Valletta did not have to wait too long to seize the lead. Matthew Mendy scythed down Denni Rocha dos Santos inside the right flank and Shaun Pierre Bajada’s ensuing delivery was met by the nippy Brazilian who headed into the net after 10 minutes Valletta did not enjoy the lead for long as Balzan reacted immediately and after only one minute they levelled matters.
Matthew Mendy stole the ball from a defender and served Pedro Calcado who in turn surged into the box, rounded goalkeeper Manuel Bartolo and flicked the ball into the far corner. Balzan stayed composed in defence and were very dangerous in their abundant counter attacks.
Matthew’s Balzan are now a point behind Hamrun Spartans who are with 13. They visit bottom-placed Rabat Ajax next.
Gambia defender Matthew Mendy and his Maltese Premier League side Balzan FC continued on their positive run, earning a precious point as they managed to hold leaders Valletta to a 1-1 draw at the Victor Tedesco Stadium.
Balzan coach Ivan Zammit was buoyed by the return of Matthew Mendy who returned after serving a one-match ban.
Valletta tore out of the blocks and fashioned the first chance inside the first five minutes as Mifsud, profiting from some sloppy defending by Balzan, burst clear but his angled drive was cleared off the line by former Valletta midfielder. But Valletta did not have to wait too long to seize the lead. Matthew Mendy scythed down Denni Rocha dos Santos inside the right flank and Shaun Pierre Bajada’s ensuing delivery was met by the nippy Brazilian who headed into the net after 10 minutes Valletta did not enjoy the lead for long as Balzan reacted immediately and after only one minute they levelled matters.
Matthew Mendy stole the ball from a defender and served Pedro Calcado who in turn surged into the box, rounded goalkeeper Manuel Bartolo and flicked the ball into the far corner. Balzan stayed composed in defence and were very dangerous in their abundant counter attacks.
Matthew’s Balzan are now a point behind Hamrun Spartans who are with 13. They visit bottom-placed Rabat Ajax next.
Koroma’s Rovers bow out of FA Cup
Omar Koroma
5th November 2012
Gambia international Omar Koroma and his English Conference National side Forest Green Rovers bowed out of the FA Cup against high flying English League Two side Port Vale in an enthralling non-stop encounter at The New Lawn in Nailsworth.
OJ Koroma came off the bench in the 83rd minute but it was little too late for him as Ben Williamson hit the winner with 10 remaining after the Blue Square Premier side fought back from two goals down.
Vale went ahead after seven minutes when Louis Dodds’ cross-field pass found Ashley Vincent, who skipped past challenges from Ed Asafu-Adjaye and Jamie Turley to place the ball to Sam Russell’s left.
The visitors doubled their lead five minutes later, Vincent turning provider, taking down Ryan Burge’s cross and supplying Clayton McDonald with a close-range finish.
Forest Green were stunned but fought their way back when James Norwood curled into the top corner after 34 minutes and they were level when skipper Eddie Oshodi tapped in from close range.
Rovers piled on the pressure and went close when Matty Taylor’s shot was cleared off the line by McDonald but they couldn't find a winner and were made to pay when Williamson nodded home.
Koroma and his Rovers will now for the third time in three weeks face up against league new boys Dartford, but this time in the league, as Rovers face another long trip east to Princes Park on Tuesday.
Gambia international Omar Koroma and his English Conference National side Forest Green Rovers bowed out of the FA Cup against high flying English League Two side Port Vale in an enthralling non-stop encounter at The New Lawn in Nailsworth.
OJ Koroma came off the bench in the 83rd minute but it was little too late for him as Ben Williamson hit the winner with 10 remaining after the Blue Square Premier side fought back from two goals down.
Vale went ahead after seven minutes when Louis Dodds’ cross-field pass found Ashley Vincent, who skipped past challenges from Ed Asafu-Adjaye and Jamie Turley to place the ball to Sam Russell’s left.
The visitors doubled their lead five minutes later, Vincent turning provider, taking down Ryan Burge’s cross and supplying Clayton McDonald with a close-range finish.
Forest Green were stunned but fought their way back when James Norwood curled into the top corner after 34 minutes and they were level when skipper Eddie Oshodi tapped in from close range.
Rovers piled on the pressure and went close when Matty Taylor’s shot was cleared off the line by McDonald but they couldn't find a winner and were made to pay when Williamson nodded home.
Koroma and his Rovers will now for the third time in three weeks face up against league new boys Dartford, but this time in the league, as Rovers face another long trip east to Princes Park on Tuesday.
Demba Savage wins league with HJK
Demba Savage wins Finnish Veikkausliiga
29th October 2012
Gambia international Demba Savage won his first Finnish Veikkausliiga title with HJK Helsinski who won their fourth straight title after a final-day 6-3 victory at JJK Jyväskylä.
HJK Helsinki retained the Veikkausliiga title on the final day of the Finnish season, lifting the trophy for the fourth successive year after a convincing 6-3 victory at JJK Jyväskylä.
A three-point lead, coupled with a vastly superior goal difference, over FC Inter Turku meant that HJK were in a position of strength going into their 33rd and last league game of 2012. Three goals in the opening 20 minutes – from Sebastian Mannström, Rasmus Schüller and Joel Pohjanpalo – set them on their way to their 19th win of the campaign and extinguished Inter’s slim hopes.
HJK are the most successful club in Finland with a record 25 league championships, 14 more than nearest rivals FC Haka and HPS Helsinki, who have nine apiece.
The club was founded as "Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi – Helsingfors Fotbollsklubb" in 1907 by Fredrik Wathén. Generally considered Finland’s biggest club, HJK is also the most successful Finnish club in terms of league championships with 25. The club has also won eleven Finnish Cups and four Finnish League Cups. Many of Finland’s internationally most successful players have played for HJK before moving abroad.
HJK is the only Finnish club to have played in the UEFA Champions League group stage. They did so in the 1998–1999 season, triumphing over FC Metz in the second qualifying round. The club also managed a respectable five points in their group, beating Benfica at home and earning draws at home to Kaiserslautern and away to Benfica. They lost to PSV Eindhoven twice and to Kaiserslautern away.
Their highest score in European competition came in the 2011–2012 season, with a 13–0 aggregate victory over Welsh champions Bangor City, which included a 10–0 win at home.
Savage, 24, signed a four-year contract with the Helsinki-based side from FC Honka back in February. The club had Dawda Bah – who won three Veikkausliiga titles in their books before leaving the club to joined German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg.
Savage has never won a Veikkausliiga title since moving to Finland in 2005 to join Kokkolan Palloveikot. He became runner up twice in 2008 and 2009 with FC Honka and won the Finnish League Cup with them in 2010 and 2011.
HJK will now automatically qualify to the second qualifying round of the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League which will be the 59th season of Europe’s premier club football tournament organised by UEFA where 34 teams will play in the second qualifying round: the 3 winners from the first qualifying round, and the following 31 teams which are expected to enter in this round.
Gambia international Demba Savage won his first Finnish Veikkausliiga title with HJK Helsinski who won their fourth straight title after a final-day 6-3 victory at JJK Jyväskylä.
HJK Helsinki retained the Veikkausliiga title on the final day of the Finnish season, lifting the trophy for the fourth successive year after a convincing 6-3 victory at JJK Jyväskylä.
A three-point lead, coupled with a vastly superior goal difference, over FC Inter Turku meant that HJK were in a position of strength going into their 33rd and last league game of 2012. Three goals in the opening 20 minutes – from Sebastian Mannström, Rasmus Schüller and Joel Pohjanpalo – set them on their way to their 19th win of the campaign and extinguished Inter’s slim hopes.
HJK are the most successful club in Finland with a record 25 league championships, 14 more than nearest rivals FC Haka and HPS Helsinki, who have nine apiece.
The club was founded as "Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi – Helsingfors Fotbollsklubb" in 1907 by Fredrik Wathén. Generally considered Finland’s biggest club, HJK is also the most successful Finnish club in terms of league championships with 25. The club has also won eleven Finnish Cups and four Finnish League Cups. Many of Finland’s internationally most successful players have played for HJK before moving abroad.
HJK is the only Finnish club to have played in the UEFA Champions League group stage. They did so in the 1998–1999 season, triumphing over FC Metz in the second qualifying round. The club also managed a respectable five points in their group, beating Benfica at home and earning draws at home to Kaiserslautern and away to Benfica. They lost to PSV Eindhoven twice and to Kaiserslautern away.
Their highest score in European competition came in the 2011–2012 season, with a 13–0 aggregate victory over Welsh champions Bangor City, which included a 10–0 win at home.
Savage, 24, signed a four-year contract with the Helsinki-based side from FC Honka back in February. The club had Dawda Bah – who won three Veikkausliiga titles in their books before leaving the club to joined German Bundesliga side FC Augsburg.
Savage has never won a Veikkausliiga title since moving to Finland in 2005 to join Kokkolan Palloveikot. He became runner up twice in 2008 and 2009 with FC Honka and won the Finnish League Cup with them in 2010 and 2011.
HJK will now automatically qualify to the second qualifying round of the 2013–14 UEFA Champions League which will be the 59th season of Europe’s premier club football tournament organised by UEFA where 34 teams will play in the second qualifying round: the 3 winners from the first qualifying round, and the following 31 teams which are expected to enter in this round.
Sawaneh’s Leuven claims fourth win against Beerschot
Gambia international striker Ibou Sawaneh
Gambia internatioanl Ibou Sawaneh didn’t score but assisted as OH Leuven claimed their fourth successive victory with a comfortable 3-0 win over Beerschot AC at the Olympisch Stadion in Antwerp.
Sawaneh had netted six out of Leuven’s 13 goals in three games prior to Saturday’s fixture and they continued that free-scoring form at Beerschot.
After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, the deadlock was finally broken 10 minutes into the second-half through Kenneth van Goethem.
Sawaneh assisted Karel Geraerts to put the result beyond doubt with four minutes remaining before Icelandic midfielder Stefán Gíslason added a third for good measure.
Argentine Hernán Pablo Losada converted a late penalty for the hosts but it proved nothing more than a consolation. Sawaneh made way for Jonas De Roeck two minutes from time. The Gambian still tops the goal scoring chart in the Jupiler League with 11 and they win lifts them up to sixth with 20 points.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Gent accounted for Mustapha Jarju’s RAEC Mons 2-0 thanks to Petit-Pelé Mboyo Ilombé’s brace. Toubabo saw 78 minutes of play after making way for Dylan De Belder.
The defeat leaves them lying at 11th in the 16-team-table with 15 points.
Sawaneh had netted six out of Leuven’s 13 goals in three games prior to Saturday’s fixture and they continued that free-scoring form at Beerschot.
After a scoreless opening 45 minutes, the deadlock was finally broken 10 minutes into the second-half through Kenneth van Goethem.
Sawaneh assisted Karel Geraerts to put the result beyond doubt with four minutes remaining before Icelandic midfielder Stefán Gíslason added a third for good measure.
Argentine Hernán Pablo Losada converted a late penalty for the hosts but it proved nothing more than a consolation. Sawaneh made way for Jonas De Roeck two minutes from time. The Gambian still tops the goal scoring chart in the Jupiler League with 11 and they win lifts them up to sixth with 20 points.
Elsewhere on Saturday, Gent accounted for Mustapha Jarju’s RAEC Mons 2-0 thanks to Petit-Pelé Mboyo Ilombé’s brace. Toubabo saw 78 minutes of play after making way for Dylan De Belder.
The defeat leaves them lying at 11th in the 16-team-table with 15 points.
Jallow’s Rizespor tops league
Gambia international striker Ousman Jallow
29th October 2012
Gambia international Ousman Jallow and his Turkish side Çaykur Rizespor continued their impressive form this season by winning 3-1 away to Konyaspor in the TFF First League [second-tier].
Ous wasn’t on target but played the entire game in Rizespor’s victory. Nigerian Uche Kalu’s goal inspired Rizespor for an away win at the Konya Atatürk Spor Kompleksi.
Uche scored in the 60th minute after Kenan Aslanoglu’s 30th-minute strike had cancelled out Erdal Kilicaslan’s ninth-minute opener for the hosts.
Onur Guney put Rizespor ahead in the 58th minute before the former Enyimba striker sealed the win two minutes later.
The win has given Jallow’s Rizespor promotion bid a boost as they now have a three-point lead at the top of the second division table.
Ous has scored four league goals in nine games for Rizespor this season with his last goal coming in the 3-1 win to Boluspor on October 7.
Gambia international Ousman Jallow and his Turkish side Çaykur Rizespor continued their impressive form this season by winning 3-1 away to Konyaspor in the TFF First League [second-tier].
Ous wasn’t on target but played the entire game in Rizespor’s victory. Nigerian Uche Kalu’s goal inspired Rizespor for an away win at the Konya Atatürk Spor Kompleksi.
Uche scored in the 60th minute after Kenan Aslanoglu’s 30th-minute strike had cancelled out Erdal Kilicaslan’s ninth-minute opener for the hosts.
Onur Guney put Rizespor ahead in the 58th minute before the former Enyimba striker sealed the win two minutes later.
The win has given Jallow’s Rizespor promotion bid a boost as they now have a three-point lead at the top of the second division table.
Ous has scored four league goals in nine games for Rizespor this season with his last goal coming in the 3-1 win to Boluspor on October 7.
Sawaneh bags hat-trick as Leuven stun Brugge
On-form Gambia international Ibou Sawaneh
22nd October 2012
Gambia international Ibou Sawaneh struck a hat-trick which lead to Club Brugge suffering their first loss of the season in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League.
Brugge were stunned 4-1 away to Oud-Heverlee Leuven at the Stadion Den Dreef with Gambian forward Ibou Sawaneh netting a hat-trick in a heated contest.
The visitors went in front through Colombian striker Carlos Bacca early on, though the advantage lasted just seven minutes as Sawaneh levelled proceedings.
Sawaneh struck again in the 35th minute before OHL were reduced to 10 men when defender Kenny Thompson was dismissed for a second bookable offence.
Brugge defender Michael Almeback was given his marching orders 10 minutes later, with Sawaneh converting the resultant penalty in the 78th minute.
Zimbabwean midfielder Ovidy Karuru struck three minute later through an assist from Sawaneh – sealing OHL’s third straight win and moving them to sixth.
Sawaneh now tops the goal-scoring chart in Belgium with 11 goals from nine games and helping his team climbing to sixth in the sixteen-team-table with 17 points.
Gambia international Ibou Sawaneh struck a hat-trick which lead to Club Brugge suffering their first loss of the season in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League.
Brugge were stunned 4-1 away to Oud-Heverlee Leuven at the Stadion Den Dreef with Gambian forward Ibou Sawaneh netting a hat-trick in a heated contest.
The visitors went in front through Colombian striker Carlos Bacca early on, though the advantage lasted just seven minutes as Sawaneh levelled proceedings.
Sawaneh struck again in the 35th minute before OHL were reduced to 10 men when defender Kenny Thompson was dismissed for a second bookable offence.
Brugge defender Michael Almeback was given his marching orders 10 minutes later, with Sawaneh converting the resultant penalty in the 78th minute.
Zimbabwean midfielder Ovidy Karuru struck three minute later through an assist from Sawaneh – sealing OHL’s third straight win and moving them to sixth.
Sawaneh now tops the goal-scoring chart in Belgium with 11 goals from nine games and helping his team climbing to sixth in the sixteen-team-table with 17 points.
Toubabo nets goal number six as Mons edge Standard Liège
Gambia international Mustapha 'Toubabo' Jarju
22nd October 2012
Gambia international Mustapha ‘Toubabo’ Jarju netted his sixth goal of the season in RAEC Mons’ come-from-behind 3-1 win over Standard Liège.
Cameroonian Aloys Bertrand Nong scored two late goals to hand Mons the victory at Stade Charles Tondreau.
Eighteen-year-old Ibrahima Cissé opened the scoring for Liège in the 13th minute, but the home side were back on level terms when Toubabo Jarju found the net on 34 minutes.
The contest appeared headed for a stalemate until Nong put Mons in front with an 88th-minute goal against his former side.
Toubabo assisted the Cameroonian to double the advantage in stoppage time, lifting Mons to eighth on the table with 15 points.
Gambia international Mustapha ‘Toubabo’ Jarju netted his sixth goal of the season in RAEC Mons’ come-from-behind 3-1 win over Standard Liège.
Cameroonian Aloys Bertrand Nong scored two late goals to hand Mons the victory at Stade Charles Tondreau.
Eighteen-year-old Ibrahima Cissé opened the scoring for Liège in the 13th minute, but the home side were back on level terms when Toubabo Jarju found the net on 34 minutes.
The contest appeared headed for a stalemate until Nong put Mons in front with an 88th-minute goal against his former side.
Toubabo assisted the Cameroonian to double the advantage in stoppage time, lifting Mons to eighth on the table with 15 points.
Jallow’s strike wins game for Rizespor
Ous Jallow firing in goals for his team
2nd October 2012
Gambia international striker Ousman Jallow has continued his impressive run in Turkey by scoring the only goal in Çaykur Rizespor’s win over Samsunspor in the TFF First League/PTT 1. Lig [second-tier].
The former Wallidan and Brøndby IF star scored the winner for his team in the 57th minute through a solo effort. He has now fired in three goals in five games for his team.
Jallow was delighted with his form and has vowed to continue putting the goals away. “It was a great [for me to score] and a good game for me and the team,” Jallow said.
“I am happy that I have scored three goals in five games I have played for Rizespor [this season]. I will keep doing my best to keep up the pace,” the Gambian added.
Gambia international striker Ousman Jallow has continued his impressive run in Turkey by scoring the only goal in Çaykur Rizespor’s win over Samsunspor in the TFF First League/PTT 1. Lig [second-tier].
The former Wallidan and Brøndby IF star scored the winner for his team in the 57th minute through a solo effort. He has now fired in three goals in five games for his team.
Jallow was delighted with his form and has vowed to continue putting the goals away. “It was a great [for me to score] and a good game for me and the team,” Jallow said.
“I am happy that I have scored three goals in five games I have played for Rizespor [this season]. I will keep doing my best to keep up the pace,” the Gambian added.
Mowbray backs Mustapha Carayol after injury blow
Muzzy Carayol
2nd October 2012
Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray has backed Gambian Mustapha Carayol to return from his four-month injury-enforced absence stronger than ever.
The 23-year-old summer signing from Bristol Rovers initially injured his knee in the Capital One Cup win at Gillingham last month before making what seemed to be a successful comeback against Ipswich two weeks ago.
It looked like he’d put the problem behind him with an excellent display in last week’s win at Blackburn but, as Mowbray revealed, Carayol suffered discomfort in his knee after the game.
New scans this week revealed cartilage damage and it’s likely that the winger won’t be back until January at the earliest.
“Muzzy has seen a few specialists this week and it looks as if he faces an operation,” said the Boro boss.
“He picked up the injury at Gillingham and yet he’s been involved in three games since then, but the knee started to flare up and, on further investigation, he needs an operation.”
“He will be out for up to four months so he’s going to be a huge loss for us. I’m hugely disappointed for him. He’s started his career with us so well and brought a different dimension to our team.”
Mowbray is confident that Carayol will make a full recovery and be back in time to help Boro continue their promotion push over the second half of the campaign.
He said: “It’s a difficult time for him at the moment but hopefully he will come back stronger.
“I’m sure it will go well and I’m sure we will see him back after Christmas.”
The physio’s room at Rockliffe Park has been busy over the past week with several senior players requiring treatment.
Meanwhile, Gambia Sports Online can confirm that Carayol has underwent a successful operation.
“I’m back alive!! Lol operation went well thanks to everyone for the best wishes. Soon be back on that pitch,” said Muzzy.
Middlesbrough manager Tony Mowbray has backed Gambian Mustapha Carayol to return from his four-month injury-enforced absence stronger than ever.
The 23-year-old summer signing from Bristol Rovers initially injured his knee in the Capital One Cup win at Gillingham last month before making what seemed to be a successful comeback against Ipswich two weeks ago.
It looked like he’d put the problem behind him with an excellent display in last week’s win at Blackburn but, as Mowbray revealed, Carayol suffered discomfort in his knee after the game.
New scans this week revealed cartilage damage and it’s likely that the winger won’t be back until January at the earliest.
“Muzzy has seen a few specialists this week and it looks as if he faces an operation,” said the Boro boss.
“He picked up the injury at Gillingham and yet he’s been involved in three games since then, but the knee started to flare up and, on further investigation, he needs an operation.”
“He will be out for up to four months so he’s going to be a huge loss for us. I’m hugely disappointed for him. He’s started his career with us so well and brought a different dimension to our team.”
Mowbray is confident that Carayol will make a full recovery and be back in time to help Boro continue their promotion push over the second half of the campaign.
He said: “It’s a difficult time for him at the moment but hopefully he will come back stronger.
“I’m sure it will go well and I’m sure we will see him back after Christmas.”
The physio’s room at Rockliffe Park has been busy over the past week with several senior players requiring treatment.
Meanwhile, Gambia Sports Online can confirm that Carayol has underwent a successful operation.
“I’m back alive!! Lol operation went well thanks to everyone for the best wishes. Soon be back on that pitch,” said Muzzy.
Kenny Mansally’s RSL runs rampant over Chivas
Abdoulie Mansally
2nd October 2012
A comprehensive performance from all corners saw Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s Real Salt Lake run out winners 4-0 against expansion compatriots Chivas USA.
Despite the positives, of which there were many for the Claret and Cobalt, they were found lacking midway through the first half, with Chivas subjecting keeper Nick Rimando to a few hard-to-handle shots; it is no surprise that the veteran handled all that came his way without major issue.
Chris Wingert, whom Kenny Mansally replaced at the half for either yellow card precaution or injury, did well to handle major concerns on the right side of the Chivas attack, with his corollary on his right, Tony Beltran, doing well to stop attacks coming from his side.
A renewed focus for RSL in the second half saw Saborio complete his hat trick in the 63rd minute with a fine strike. Dan Kennedy superbly blocked a shot from Will Johnson, but with the ball rolling out to Sabo, wasn't able to stop a sumptuous chip.
Despite the strong flank efforts from Real Salt Lake, Chivas managed a shocking 30 unsuccessful crosses on the night (30/38 overall), with 14 of those coming in the 25-minute period of sustained attack in the first half.
The scoring finished for the night when Paulo Jr. picked up a pass from Fabian Espindola, darted to the right side of the box, and beat Kennedy at his near post. It was the young striker's first MLS goal since converting a penalty on April 4.
A comprehensive performance from all corners saw Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s Real Salt Lake run out winners 4-0 against expansion compatriots Chivas USA.
Despite the positives, of which there were many for the Claret and Cobalt, they were found lacking midway through the first half, with Chivas subjecting keeper Nick Rimando to a few hard-to-handle shots; it is no surprise that the veteran handled all that came his way without major issue.
Chris Wingert, whom Kenny Mansally replaced at the half for either yellow card precaution or injury, did well to handle major concerns on the right side of the Chivas attack, with his corollary on his right, Tony Beltran, doing well to stop attacks coming from his side.
A renewed focus for RSL in the second half saw Saborio complete his hat trick in the 63rd minute with a fine strike. Dan Kennedy superbly blocked a shot from Will Johnson, but with the ball rolling out to Sabo, wasn't able to stop a sumptuous chip.
Despite the strong flank efforts from Real Salt Lake, Chivas managed a shocking 30 unsuccessful crosses on the night (30/38 overall), with 14 of those coming in the 25-minute period of sustained attack in the first half.
The scoring finished for the night when Paulo Jr. picked up a pass from Fabian Espindola, darted to the right side of the box, and beat Kennedy at his near post. It was the young striker's first MLS goal since converting a penalty on April 4.
Sawaneh nets goal number seven
Gambia international Ibou Sawaneh
1st October 2012
Gambia international striker Ibou Sawaneh scored his seventh-goal of the season in seven appearances for his new Belgian Jupiler Pro League side OH Leuven.
OH Leuven overcame Waasland-Beveren 5-2 but only wrapped up the victory with two late goals from Sawaneh.
Leuven were in front 1-0 at half-time thanks to Christian Pouga’s 39th-minute goal but Beveren hit back eight minutes after the break when Christoph Lepoint scored.
Icelandic midfielder Stefan Gislason gave Leuven the lead again in the 61st minute before Barak Badash equalised for Beveren with a penalty three minutes later.
Pouga scored his second in the 71st minute before Leuven finally ended Beveren’s resistance with goals in the 88th and 92nd minutes from the Gambia international striker, Ibou Sawaneh, who came off the bench to complete the win.
Sawaneh joined Oud-Heverlee Leuven [OH Leuven] from RAEC Mons on a three-year-contract back in August and has since played seven games out of nine matches for the club scoring seven times.
Meanwhile, in the other Belgian Pro League game, Gambia international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju and his RAEC Mons enjoyed a 1-0 win over Beerschot thanks to Jérémy Perbet’s last-minute strike.
Gambia international striker Ibou Sawaneh scored his seventh-goal of the season in seven appearances for his new Belgian Jupiler Pro League side OH Leuven.
OH Leuven overcame Waasland-Beveren 5-2 but only wrapped up the victory with two late goals from Sawaneh.
Leuven were in front 1-0 at half-time thanks to Christian Pouga’s 39th-minute goal but Beveren hit back eight minutes after the break when Christoph Lepoint scored.
Icelandic midfielder Stefan Gislason gave Leuven the lead again in the 61st minute before Barak Badash equalised for Beveren with a penalty three minutes later.
Pouga scored his second in the 71st minute before Leuven finally ended Beveren’s resistance with goals in the 88th and 92nd minutes from the Gambia international striker, Ibou Sawaneh, who came off the bench to complete the win.
Sawaneh joined Oud-Heverlee Leuven [OH Leuven] from RAEC Mons on a three-year-contract back in August and has since played seven games out of nine matches for the club scoring seven times.
Meanwhile, in the other Belgian Pro League game, Gambia international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju and his RAEC Mons enjoyed a 1-0 win over Beerschot thanks to Jérémy Perbet’s last-minute strike.
Penda Bah looks up to Stoke City striker Peter Crouch
Gambia's Peter Crouch, Penda Bah
1st October 2012
Gambia had the toughest debut at the FIFA women's world cup in Azerbaijan, beaten 11-0 in their Group B opener by Korea DPR, they subsequently had their hopes of survival extinguished on Tuesday when they went down 6-0 to the USA and lost their last game against France by 10-2 at Baku’s Dalga Arena.
When the game ended, all players went to the dressing room saddened by their performance. Gambia’s first goal scorer in the tournament Penda Bah, 14, saw no reason to be disappointed by their showing.
Indeed the Girl Scorpions had lost all their games and conceded 27 goals in the process and scored only two goals. Yet these were, after all, the nation’s very first matches in a FIFA women’s finals at any age category and against three of the tournament’s strongest teams.
“After losing all our games in this tournament our coach told us that this is just football,” Penda Bah said. “You either win, you lose or you draw, and that’s that. We lost and we have to accept it. It’s not easy to get to the World Cup because the qualifiers are very tough.”
“The way I see it this is a great opportunity for us and we have to look at it as such,” she continued. “This is only our first time here and we did what we can.”
Penda started to play football last year with Makasutu FC. She was discovered during the league matches called up for a national duty. After playing for 65minutes, Penda was substituted by Sainey Sissohore in their opening game against the North Koreans.
“I am saying sorry to all Gambians for our poor performance in Baku,” she said. “We were hoping for better results but thinks went this way. Our coach will always tell us this is football we just have to go back home and rectify our mistakes.”
Her love for football goes way back. “When I’m not playing I like watching matches at different parks or on TV,” she continued. “I watch international football especially when Peter Crouch is playing as he is my role model.”
“I am currently going to school am in grade10,” said the promising, skillful and determined player.
Gambia had the toughest debut at the FIFA women's world cup in Azerbaijan, beaten 11-0 in their Group B opener by Korea DPR, they subsequently had their hopes of survival extinguished on Tuesday when they went down 6-0 to the USA and lost their last game against France by 10-2 at Baku’s Dalga Arena.
When the game ended, all players went to the dressing room saddened by their performance. Gambia’s first goal scorer in the tournament Penda Bah, 14, saw no reason to be disappointed by their showing.
Indeed the Girl Scorpions had lost all their games and conceded 27 goals in the process and scored only two goals. Yet these were, after all, the nation’s very first matches in a FIFA women’s finals at any age category and against three of the tournament’s strongest teams.
“After losing all our games in this tournament our coach told us that this is just football,” Penda Bah said. “You either win, you lose or you draw, and that’s that. We lost and we have to accept it. It’s not easy to get to the World Cup because the qualifiers are very tough.”
“The way I see it this is a great opportunity for us and we have to look at it as such,” she continued. “This is only our first time here and we did what we can.”
Penda started to play football last year with Makasutu FC. She was discovered during the league matches called up for a national duty. After playing for 65minutes, Penda was substituted by Sainey Sissohore in their opening game against the North Koreans.
“I am saying sorry to all Gambians for our poor performance in Baku,” she said. “We were hoping for better results but thinks went this way. Our coach will always tell us this is football we just have to go back home and rectify our mistakes.”
Her love for football goes way back. “When I’m not playing I like watching matches at different parks or on TV,” she continued. “I watch international football especially when Peter Crouch is playing as he is my role model.”
“I am currently going to school am in grade10,” said the promising, skillful and determined player.
Matthew’s Balzan fight back to gain first win
Matthew Mendy
1st October 2012
Gambia international Matthew Mendy and his Balzan FC came back from a goal down to beat Qormi 2-1 and gain their first victory of the season in the Maltese Premier League.
Elton scored a brace for Balzan who made the most of the chances that came their way. Not so can be said of Qormi who missed some excellent opportunities and were denied on several occasions by Balzan goalkeeper Matthew Camilleri who also saved a first-half penalty.
Qormi threatened to go ahead after four minutes when Gaetan Spiteri released Leighton Grech who flicked wide from inside the box.
Balzan also had an early chance but Elton's grounder was blocked by Steve Sultana, the Qormi goalkeeper. Eight minutes into the game, Qormi were awarded a penalty when Balzan defender Yessous Camilleri was penalised for a handling infringement. Vincenzo Pisani's drive from the spot was blocked by Matthew Camilleri who also saved Grech's follow-on effort.
Balzan's resistance was broken on 14 minutes when Abubakar Bello-Osagie stormed into the box and drilled a low shot past Camilleri.
Midway into the first half, Balzan should have equalised but Conceicao headed over from Pedrinho's corner. The Reds missed another great chance when Dylan Grima blasted over after receiving from Elton. At the other end, Qormi were again denied by Camilleri. Matthew Mendy's headed clearance from Matthew Bartolo's free-kick dropped to Spiteri who produced a first-time volley that was pushed away for a corner by Camilleri.
Early in the second half, Spiteri ran clear on the right but fired wide of the far post. Pisani was thwarted by Camilleri as Qormi started the second period in lively mode.
Qormi continued to create chances. Grech's shot was partially cleared by Balzan but the loose ball fell to Bello-Osagie who dallied his way through only for Camilleri to block his effort with his feet.
Balzan hit back to level the score. Martin Deanov broke on the counter before releasing Elton who flicked home from close range. With 13 minutes left, Balzan received another boost when they were awarded a penalty after Pedrinho was brought down by Matthew Gauci. Elton drove his penalty shot past Sultana for his second goal of the game.
Qormi were now forced to chase the game. Their late pressure produced two good chances but Kris Thackray's volley was palmed away by Camilleri and, moments later, the English defender hit over after receiving from Roderick Sammut.
Gambia international Matthew Mendy and his Balzan FC came back from a goal down to beat Qormi 2-1 and gain their first victory of the season in the Maltese Premier League.
Elton scored a brace for Balzan who made the most of the chances that came their way. Not so can be said of Qormi who missed some excellent opportunities and were denied on several occasions by Balzan goalkeeper Matthew Camilleri who also saved a first-half penalty.
Qormi threatened to go ahead after four minutes when Gaetan Spiteri released Leighton Grech who flicked wide from inside the box.
Balzan also had an early chance but Elton's grounder was blocked by Steve Sultana, the Qormi goalkeeper. Eight minutes into the game, Qormi were awarded a penalty when Balzan defender Yessous Camilleri was penalised for a handling infringement. Vincenzo Pisani's drive from the spot was blocked by Matthew Camilleri who also saved Grech's follow-on effort.
Balzan's resistance was broken on 14 minutes when Abubakar Bello-Osagie stormed into the box and drilled a low shot past Camilleri.
Midway into the first half, Balzan should have equalised but Conceicao headed over from Pedrinho's corner. The Reds missed another great chance when Dylan Grima blasted over after receiving from Elton. At the other end, Qormi were again denied by Camilleri. Matthew Mendy's headed clearance from Matthew Bartolo's free-kick dropped to Spiteri who produced a first-time volley that was pushed away for a corner by Camilleri.
Early in the second half, Spiteri ran clear on the right but fired wide of the far post. Pisani was thwarted by Camilleri as Qormi started the second period in lively mode.
Qormi continued to create chances. Grech's shot was partially cleared by Balzan but the loose ball fell to Bello-Osagie who dallied his way through only for Camilleri to block his effort with his feet.
Balzan hit back to level the score. Martin Deanov broke on the counter before releasing Elton who flicked home from close range. With 13 minutes left, Balzan received another boost when they were awarded a penalty after Pedrinho was brought down by Matthew Gauci. Elton drove his penalty shot past Sultana for his second goal of the game.
Qormi were now forced to chase the game. Their late pressure produced two good chances but Kris Thackray's volley was palmed away by Camilleri and, moments later, the English defender hit over after receiving from Roderick Sammut.
Gambia receives six from USA
Gambia Women U-17 takes six
25th September 2012
After coming from the 11-0 humiliation by Korea DPR, the Gambia came into its second group game with a view of getting a result but Summer Green’s hat trick helped USA to a 6-0 win over Gambia in Baku, in a game which saw five of the goals come in the second half.
Albertin Montoya’s team led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Green’s 24th minute penalty after Brittany Basinger was fouled in the box. However, USA struggled to create much in the way of clear-cut opportunities during the opening 45 minutes.
The floodgates opened after the restart, however, and it took a matter of seconds before Amber Munerlyn doubled their advantage after turning home Darian Jenkins’ left-wing cross.
Green made it 3-0 shortly after the hour mark, when her cross-cum-shot took a wicked deflection off Amie Jarju. Ten minutes later, her hat trick was complete when she applied a cheeky finish to a Jenkins cross.
There was still time for two more goals in the closing stages. Morgan Stanton profited from some excellent work from substitute Emily Bruder and Lauren Kaskie, while Payne completed the rout four minutes from time, keeping her cool with just the keeper to beat.
The result ends Gambia’s hopes of reaching the next round of the 2012 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup football tournament – which is the third such tournament that is hosted by Azerbaijan.
Gambia has now conceded seventeen goals in two games with no goals. Their last group game will be on Saturday against France, a game that will take place at the Dalga Arena in Baku.
After coming from the 11-0 humiliation by Korea DPR, the Gambia came into its second group game with a view of getting a result but Summer Green’s hat trick helped USA to a 6-0 win over Gambia in Baku, in a game which saw five of the goals come in the second half.
Albertin Montoya’s team led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Green’s 24th minute penalty after Brittany Basinger was fouled in the box. However, USA struggled to create much in the way of clear-cut opportunities during the opening 45 minutes.
The floodgates opened after the restart, however, and it took a matter of seconds before Amber Munerlyn doubled their advantage after turning home Darian Jenkins’ left-wing cross.
Green made it 3-0 shortly after the hour mark, when her cross-cum-shot took a wicked deflection off Amie Jarju. Ten minutes later, her hat trick was complete when she applied a cheeky finish to a Jenkins cross.
There was still time for two more goals in the closing stages. Morgan Stanton profited from some excellent work from substitute Emily Bruder and Lauren Kaskie, while Payne completed the rout four minutes from time, keeping her cool with just the keeper to beat.
The result ends Gambia’s hopes of reaching the next round of the 2012 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup football tournament – which is the third such tournament that is hosted by Azerbaijan.
Gambia has now conceded seventeen goals in two games with no goals. Their last group game will be on Saturday against France, a game that will take place at the Dalga Arena in Baku.
Bye Malleh Wadda appointed head coach of Nairobi City Stars
Bye Malleh Wadda appointed coach in Kenya
25th September 2012
Former Gambia international Bye Malleh Wadda has been appointed as the new head coach of Kenyan Premier League side Nairobi City Stars, Gambia Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Following the departure of head coach Gideon Ochieng, who has been with Nairobi City Stars since last season, it has been confirmed that Gambia’s greatest athlete Malleh Wadda will be taking over as the stand in tactician.
Gambia Sports Online has gathered that Ochieng left for the United States of America where he is expected to be for three weeks and the chairman Peter Jabuya immediately confirmed the UK trained coach, who has been in close contact with City Stars will be taking over.
“Wadda will be our stand-in coach in Gideon’s absence. He is not new to the team, he has been assisting in various capacities tactically because he is well gifted and vastly experienced in the area,” City Stars chairman Peter Jabuya told Kenya-based journalist Dan Ngulu.
“He is technically gifted and has vast experience in this field. He attends our training sessions and matches and even speaks to players, helping them on the technical aspects so I am sure he will do well with the team.”
Wadda said that he is convinced that the team – which has gone winless in the last nine league matches, can get their act together and avoid the chop.
He, however, admitted that it will not be a walk in the park and counts on his experience and technical know-how to be of great importance to the team’s push.
“We are facing a very difficult patch of our season but I know we will overcome. My immediate ambition now is to keep the players well together for the tough job ahead. From my knowledge of the playing unit, survival is a great possibility and I also have enough experience at this level to steer the team higher on the table,” said Bye Malleh Wadda.
City Stars lost 3-0 to Muhoroni Youth on Sunday 23 September and fell 14th on the table, just four points above the drop zone.
Bai Malleh is now the first Gambian to open his coaching account in Kenya and it is believed that if he were to be born in England, Holland; Germany, USA, Brazil, Argentina or indeed anywhere other than his real birth place, The Gambia, he would have today been enjoying the cult status enjoyed by the likes of Pele, Johan Cryuff, David Beckham, Diego Maradona, and you name it.
This so because throughout his glorious sporting career, which cut across every discipline and categroy, Malleh Wadda has touched every Gambian sporting heart with joy through his sheer brilliance and tenacity.
Wadda, a former coach of Gambian champions Real de Banjul, holds a Level 2 coaching license from the English Football Association. He will have to concentrate on helping City Stars, who barely escaped relegation last term, survive in the top flight.
The Kawangware-based side are 14th in the 16-team Tusker Premier League standings, with 24 points after 25 matches.
About Nairobi City Stars
Nairobi City Stars is a football club in Nairobi, Kenya. They currently compete in the Kenyan Premier League (also known as the Tusker Premier League for sponsorship reasons and the FKF Premier League].
The club was founded in 2003 as World Hope Football Club, when it took over Kawangware F.C., who had been relegated from the Premier League. After one season in the Nationwide League, World Hope was promoted to the premier league. The club was owned by World Hope International, a charitable organisation.
In October 2008, the club was bought by Ambassadors in Sport (AIS Kenya), who renamed the club to Nairobi City Stars FC after the 2008 season. The name is after Cleveland City Stars.
Musa Otieno, Kenyan international footballer who has also played for Cleveland City Stars is one of the leading figures behind the new club. Nairobi City Stars retained the home ground Hope Centre, located in Kawangware suburb of Nairobi.
Nairobi City Stars was initially coached by German manager Oliver Page, who is a former Bundesliga player. He resigned from the post half-season in June 2009 despite good results, citing personal issues.
The club’s mission statement states they will use the club’s profile to raise awareness of and combat poverty, HIV/AIDS, ethnic strife and corruption. The club have an academy known as the Petra Boys and they play at the 5000-capacity Hope Centre, a multi-use stadium in Nairobi, Kenya that is also used by Administration Police FC and Kenya Revenue Authority FC.
Former Gambia international Bye Malleh Wadda has been appointed as the new head coach of Kenyan Premier League side Nairobi City Stars, Gambia Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Following the departure of head coach Gideon Ochieng, who has been with Nairobi City Stars since last season, it has been confirmed that Gambia’s greatest athlete Malleh Wadda will be taking over as the stand in tactician.
Gambia Sports Online has gathered that Ochieng left for the United States of America where he is expected to be for three weeks and the chairman Peter Jabuya immediately confirmed the UK trained coach, who has been in close contact with City Stars will be taking over.
“Wadda will be our stand-in coach in Gideon’s absence. He is not new to the team, he has been assisting in various capacities tactically because he is well gifted and vastly experienced in the area,” City Stars chairman Peter Jabuya told Kenya-based journalist Dan Ngulu.
“He is technically gifted and has vast experience in this field. He attends our training sessions and matches and even speaks to players, helping them on the technical aspects so I am sure he will do well with the team.”
Wadda said that he is convinced that the team – which has gone winless in the last nine league matches, can get their act together and avoid the chop.
He, however, admitted that it will not be a walk in the park and counts on his experience and technical know-how to be of great importance to the team’s push.
“We are facing a very difficult patch of our season but I know we will overcome. My immediate ambition now is to keep the players well together for the tough job ahead. From my knowledge of the playing unit, survival is a great possibility and I also have enough experience at this level to steer the team higher on the table,” said Bye Malleh Wadda.
City Stars lost 3-0 to Muhoroni Youth on Sunday 23 September and fell 14th on the table, just four points above the drop zone.
Bai Malleh is now the first Gambian to open his coaching account in Kenya and it is believed that if he were to be born in England, Holland; Germany, USA, Brazil, Argentina or indeed anywhere other than his real birth place, The Gambia, he would have today been enjoying the cult status enjoyed by the likes of Pele, Johan Cryuff, David Beckham, Diego Maradona, and you name it.
This so because throughout his glorious sporting career, which cut across every discipline and categroy, Malleh Wadda has touched every Gambian sporting heart with joy through his sheer brilliance and tenacity.
Wadda, a former coach of Gambian champions Real de Banjul, holds a Level 2 coaching license from the English Football Association. He will have to concentrate on helping City Stars, who barely escaped relegation last term, survive in the top flight.
The Kawangware-based side are 14th in the 16-team Tusker Premier League standings, with 24 points after 25 matches.
About Nairobi City Stars
Nairobi City Stars is a football club in Nairobi, Kenya. They currently compete in the Kenyan Premier League (also known as the Tusker Premier League for sponsorship reasons and the FKF Premier League].
The club was founded in 2003 as World Hope Football Club, when it took over Kawangware F.C., who had been relegated from the Premier League. After one season in the Nationwide League, World Hope was promoted to the premier league. The club was owned by World Hope International, a charitable organisation.
In October 2008, the club was bought by Ambassadors in Sport (AIS Kenya), who renamed the club to Nairobi City Stars FC after the 2008 season. The name is after Cleveland City Stars.
Musa Otieno, Kenyan international footballer who has also played for Cleveland City Stars is one of the leading figures behind the new club. Nairobi City Stars retained the home ground Hope Centre, located in Kawangware suburb of Nairobi.
Nairobi City Stars was initially coached by German manager Oliver Page, who is a former Bundesliga player. He resigned from the post half-season in June 2009 despite good results, citing personal issues.
The club’s mission statement states they will use the club’s profile to raise awareness of and combat poverty, HIV/AIDS, ethnic strife and corruption. The club have an academy known as the Petra Boys and they play at the 5000-capacity Hope Centre, a multi-use stadium in Nairobi, Kenya that is also used by Administration Police FC and Kenya Revenue Authority FC.
Sowe wins Ramapo College Cross Country run
Gambian marathoner Ansu Sowe
25th September 2012
Gambian marathon runner Ansu Sowe has continued to display class in the United States of America and did just what he thought of the Ramapo College Cross Country Invitational run with a top notch finish.
For Sowe, winning is getting to be a habit and for the second time this season – he has won a cross country meet. He finished first at Saturday’s inaugural Ramapo College Cross Country Invitational in Wet Patterson, NJ.
But this was not Monroe’s only achievement of the day. Both of the Mustangs Cross Country teams – the men and the women – had their best showings of the season at Ramapo.
“In cross country, as in track and field, it’s easy to measure progress,” said Coach Mark
Goodman. “Running times don’t lie and across the board our athletes showed improvement.
Does this mean we’re running in the right direction? You bet!”
Led again by freshman Jessica Barrera, the Monroe women put forth a strong team effort to secure fourth place out of ten teams. Mustang harriers Bryanna Chestnut, Tyra Jamison, Anousticar Pemberton, and Briana Lewis all turned in their best times for 5000m, the result of hard preseason work while training in New Rochelle.
Building off the excitement of the women’s excellent performance, the men’s cross country team also showcased their strongest team effort of the season, finishing second only to host team Ramapo College.
Led by sophomore sensation Ansu Sowe’s dominating individual win, the Mustangs outdistanced the third-place team by over twenty points. Freshmen Matt Pluviose and Lashley Winter supported Sowe with tenth and twelfth place finishes, besting their previous 8000m times by nearly a minute each.
Kenneth Coleman, Yanik Duffus, and Kashawn Coleman all finished in personal best times to round out the squad and complete the runner up effort.
Sowe, an Essau-born distance athlete beat more than eighty athletes from different colleges to scoop the accolade with a stunning timing of 26:41.08 and a mile pace of 5:21.
Ansu vied for the stakes which he eventually won with rivals from top renowned colleges namely Ramapo, Army Prep, Stevens Institute, John Jay, Pace, FDU-Florham and Rutgers-Newark.
The Gambian recently became Monroe’s first Cross Country winner in the West Point Open on the scenic West Point golf course running the just-over 5K course in 17:11:30 and he bested more than 100 runners from ten different colleges.
Gambian marathon runner Ansu Sowe has continued to display class in the United States of America and did just what he thought of the Ramapo College Cross Country Invitational run with a top notch finish.
For Sowe, winning is getting to be a habit and for the second time this season – he has won a cross country meet. He finished first at Saturday’s inaugural Ramapo College Cross Country Invitational in Wet Patterson, NJ.
But this was not Monroe’s only achievement of the day. Both of the Mustangs Cross Country teams – the men and the women – had their best showings of the season at Ramapo.
“In cross country, as in track and field, it’s easy to measure progress,” said Coach Mark
Goodman. “Running times don’t lie and across the board our athletes showed improvement.
Does this mean we’re running in the right direction? You bet!”
Led again by freshman Jessica Barrera, the Monroe women put forth a strong team effort to secure fourth place out of ten teams. Mustang harriers Bryanna Chestnut, Tyra Jamison, Anousticar Pemberton, and Briana Lewis all turned in their best times for 5000m, the result of hard preseason work while training in New Rochelle.
Building off the excitement of the women’s excellent performance, the men’s cross country team also showcased their strongest team effort of the season, finishing second only to host team Ramapo College.
Led by sophomore sensation Ansu Sowe’s dominating individual win, the Mustangs outdistanced the third-place team by over twenty points. Freshmen Matt Pluviose and Lashley Winter supported Sowe with tenth and twelfth place finishes, besting their previous 8000m times by nearly a minute each.
Kenneth Coleman, Yanik Duffus, and Kashawn Coleman all finished in personal best times to round out the squad and complete the runner up effort.
Sowe, an Essau-born distance athlete beat more than eighty athletes from different colleges to scoop the accolade with a stunning timing of 26:41.08 and a mile pace of 5:21.
Ansu vied for the stakes which he eventually won with rivals from top renowned colleges namely Ramapo, Army Prep, Stevens Institute, John Jay, Pace, FDU-Florham and Rutgers-Newark.
The Gambian recently became Monroe’s first Cross Country winner in the West Point Open on the scenic West Point golf course running the just-over 5K course in 17:11:30 and he bested more than 100 runners from ten different colleges.
Korea DPR humiliates Gambia in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup
Gambia U-17 humiliated by Korea DPR
23rd September 2012
Korea DPR laid down a gauntlet on the opening day of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup by thrashing Gambia 11-0 in their Group B encounter in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The North Koreans, winners of this tournament four years ago, were far too strong for their African opponents, who are appearing at a major FIFA competition for the very first time. Ri Un Sim and Ri Kyong Hyang both bagged trebles as one of the genuine contenders for the title sent a message to section rivals France and USA against admittedly shell-shocked opponents.
From the first whistle the Asian side were dominant and although it took them almost 20 minutes to register, three goals in as many minutes put the result beyond doubt. Choe Yun Gyong capitalised on a rebound to break the deadlock on 18 minutes, and further goals from Ri Un Sim and Ri Kyong Hyang followed a minute apart as Gambia struggled to regain their composure.
Ri Un Sim completed a hat-trick before half-time, first converting a spot-kick and then a smart finish from the edge of the area, before Kim Phyong Hwa made it half-a-dozen in the opening period for Korea DPR.
Korea DPR took their foot off the gas to a degree in the second half but wasteful passing from Gambia, allied to some clinical counter-attacking play, saw them extend their advantage by another five goals.
Ri Kyong Hyang secured a treble of her own after scoring in the 63rd and 77th minutes, sandwiching an effort by Kim So Hyang. Ri Hyang Sim rounded off the result with two late individual efforts as Korea DPR proved their credentials immediately.
Gambia will now attempt to resurrect their campaign against USA on Tuesday, with the game taking place at the 6500 capacity Dalga Arena in Baku.
After the game, Korea DPR coach Hwang Yong Bong was understandably a happy man saying, "I am obviously very happy with the result and the score, but we have two more games ahead of us and we have to give our best in each of them."
"The first match was very important to give more experience to the girls and this is a process that will continue in the next couple of games. Gambia is not a weak side at all and some of their players did quite well today, but the first match is always tense."
Korea DPR laid down a gauntlet on the opening day of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup by thrashing Gambia 11-0 in their Group B encounter in Baku, Azerbaijan.
The North Koreans, winners of this tournament four years ago, were far too strong for their African opponents, who are appearing at a major FIFA competition for the very first time. Ri Un Sim and Ri Kyong Hyang both bagged trebles as one of the genuine contenders for the title sent a message to section rivals France and USA against admittedly shell-shocked opponents.
From the first whistle the Asian side were dominant and although it took them almost 20 minutes to register, three goals in as many minutes put the result beyond doubt. Choe Yun Gyong capitalised on a rebound to break the deadlock on 18 minutes, and further goals from Ri Un Sim and Ri Kyong Hyang followed a minute apart as Gambia struggled to regain their composure.
Ri Un Sim completed a hat-trick before half-time, first converting a spot-kick and then a smart finish from the edge of the area, before Kim Phyong Hwa made it half-a-dozen in the opening period for Korea DPR.
Korea DPR took their foot off the gas to a degree in the second half but wasteful passing from Gambia, allied to some clinical counter-attacking play, saw them extend their advantage by another five goals.
Ri Kyong Hyang secured a treble of her own after scoring in the 63rd and 77th minutes, sandwiching an effort by Kim So Hyang. Ri Hyang Sim rounded off the result with two late individual efforts as Korea DPR proved their credentials immediately.
Gambia will now attempt to resurrect their campaign against USA on Tuesday, with the game taking place at the 6500 capacity Dalga Arena in Baku.
After the game, Korea DPR coach Hwang Yong Bong was understandably a happy man saying, "I am obviously very happy with the result and the score, but we have two more games ahead of us and we have to give our best in each of them."
"The first match was very important to give more experience to the girls and this is a process that will continue in the next couple of games. Gambia is not a weak side at all and some of their players did quite well today, but the first match is always tense."
Gambia, Ghana and Nigeria represent Africa at U-17 Women’s World Cup
Gambia Women's Under 17
21st September 2012
With the dust of the recently concluded FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup hardly settled, another sand storm is brewing in Azerbaijan with the imminent start of the U-17 edition of the Women’s World Cup.
In the third edition of the women’s continental showpiece event at U17 level, African representatives, Nigeria and Ghana, have been ever present at the tournament while Gambia will get to rub shoulders with the best in the world at this level for the first time.
Gambia have never qualified a women’s team for a major championship before, and they had never even entered a team in the U-17 preliminaries before. So the success of coach Buba Jallow’s team earlier this year was a pleasant surprise for the small west African nation.
The Girl Scorpions held on for an aggregate win over Sierra Leone in the opening round, despite struggling through the away leg. In the second head-to-head tie, they were underdogs against Tunisia, but they triumphed in both legs, most impressively 2-1 in Tunis.
Although they will no doubt be considered outsiders at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, the Gambian team will be buoyed by the win over Tunisia, particularly after they came from a goal behind in the away leg.
“The manner in which the players came back from the early goal to win on foreign soil is very encouraging,” said assistant coach and former international Chorro Mbenga, who was on Gambia’s first-ever women’s team in 2006.
“[In Azerbaijan], we hope to have a respectable tournament. Hopefully it will be good exposure for our girls and perhaps provide them the opportunity to get to more advanced leagues.”
Ghana will be appearing at their third finals - one of only five teams to have achieved that (three others could still follow suit if they qualify for the 2012 finals). Although they have previously failed to advance to the knockout stage, the Black Maidens have achieved some notable results, beating Brazil in 2010 and holding eventual winners Korea DPR to a credible 1-1 draw in New Zealand in 2008. At the same tournament, they secured a victory against Costa Rica, but just crashed out with four points.
For coach Dramani Mas-ud Didi, who was named after the great Brazilian midfielder and in 2010 spent several weeks attached as a coach to Premier League giants Manchester City, the finals in Azerbaijan offer an opportunity to go further than the Black Maidens managed at their two previous outings.
"We will try to beat the standard set by the classes of 2008 and 2010. Our first target will be to go beyond the group stage and if we manage that, we will adjust,” he said before noting that previous teams fell short because women's football in the country lacked the foundation necessary to challenge on a global level. "That is changing and I think we now can realistically dream of doing well."
Nigeria’s Flamingoes have shown steady progress in the tournament. A group stage exit in the inaugural tournament in New Zealand 2008 was followed by a quarterfinal berth in Trinidad and Tobago 2010.
Their return to the tournament this will buoyed by the spirit of their counterparts, the Super Falcons, who earlier this month fell agonisingly close of a second consecutive final appearance at the U-20 World Cup.
Nigeria is in group A and they open their account on September 22 with a game against Canada at the Tofik Bakhramov Stadium in Baku at 17:00 local time [12:00 pm GMT].
Gambia is in Group B and opens its tie against 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup winners Korea DPR at the Eighth Kilometer District Stadium in Baku at 13:00 local time [08:00 GMT].
The Black Maidens, Ghana, are in Group D and do not play until September 23 against Germany at the Dalga Arena in Baku with kickoff time schedule at 15:00 local time [10:00 GMT].
With the dust of the recently concluded FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup hardly settled, another sand storm is brewing in Azerbaijan with the imminent start of the U-17 edition of the Women’s World Cup.
In the third edition of the women’s continental showpiece event at U17 level, African representatives, Nigeria and Ghana, have been ever present at the tournament while Gambia will get to rub shoulders with the best in the world at this level for the first time.
Gambia have never qualified a women’s team for a major championship before, and they had never even entered a team in the U-17 preliminaries before. So the success of coach Buba Jallow’s team earlier this year was a pleasant surprise for the small west African nation.
The Girl Scorpions held on for an aggregate win over Sierra Leone in the opening round, despite struggling through the away leg. In the second head-to-head tie, they were underdogs against Tunisia, but they triumphed in both legs, most impressively 2-1 in Tunis.
Although they will no doubt be considered outsiders at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, the Gambian team will be buoyed by the win over Tunisia, particularly after they came from a goal behind in the away leg.
“The manner in which the players came back from the early goal to win on foreign soil is very encouraging,” said assistant coach and former international Chorro Mbenga, who was on Gambia’s first-ever women’s team in 2006.
“[In Azerbaijan], we hope to have a respectable tournament. Hopefully it will be good exposure for our girls and perhaps provide them the opportunity to get to more advanced leagues.”
Ghana will be appearing at their third finals - one of only five teams to have achieved that (three others could still follow suit if they qualify for the 2012 finals). Although they have previously failed to advance to the knockout stage, the Black Maidens have achieved some notable results, beating Brazil in 2010 and holding eventual winners Korea DPR to a credible 1-1 draw in New Zealand in 2008. At the same tournament, they secured a victory against Costa Rica, but just crashed out with four points.
For coach Dramani Mas-ud Didi, who was named after the great Brazilian midfielder and in 2010 spent several weeks attached as a coach to Premier League giants Manchester City, the finals in Azerbaijan offer an opportunity to go further than the Black Maidens managed at their two previous outings.
"We will try to beat the standard set by the classes of 2008 and 2010. Our first target will be to go beyond the group stage and if we manage that, we will adjust,” he said before noting that previous teams fell short because women's football in the country lacked the foundation necessary to challenge on a global level. "That is changing and I think we now can realistically dream of doing well."
Nigeria’s Flamingoes have shown steady progress in the tournament. A group stage exit in the inaugural tournament in New Zealand 2008 was followed by a quarterfinal berth in Trinidad and Tobago 2010.
Their return to the tournament this will buoyed by the spirit of their counterparts, the Super Falcons, who earlier this month fell agonisingly close of a second consecutive final appearance at the U-20 World Cup.
Nigeria is in group A and they open their account on September 22 with a game against Canada at the Tofik Bakhramov Stadium in Baku at 17:00 local time [12:00 pm GMT].
Gambia is in Group B and opens its tie against 2008 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup winners Korea DPR at the Eighth Kilometer District Stadium in Baku at 13:00 local time [08:00 GMT].
The Black Maidens, Ghana, are in Group D and do not play until September 23 against Germany at the Dalga Arena in Baku with kickoff time schedule at 15:00 local time [10:00 GMT].
Seedy Bah on trial at Colorado Rapids
Seedy Bah trials at Rapids
September 11th 2012
Former Gambia U17 striker Seedy Bah has been spotted on trial at Major League Soccer side Colorado Rapids, formerly of Gambia international Sanna Nyassi.
Bah, 20, has been without a club since leaving USL Pro league side The Charleston Battery of Amadou Sanyang but might soon find himself one if he impresses.
He participated in the team’s training session and there could be an option for him to travel with the team to Texas for the Rapids final Reserve League match of the season. The Rapids Reserves are 5-2-1 in the Central Conference and play their final match on Tuesday evening at FC Dallas.
Seedy Bah went to the United States in 2010 as part of an exchange programme with the club side Colorado Rush, who run a Rush Academy in the Gambia.
After trialing with Seattle Sounders FC of Major League Soccer during the spring of 2011, Bah signed with Charleston Battery in the USL Professional Division on March 23, 2011.
He made his professional debut on April 9, 2011 in a game against the Charlotte Eagles and left the club in August last year scoring two goals in 21 appearances. He has represented Gambia at U-17 level, and has also spent time with the US Development academy.
Former Gambia U17 striker Seedy Bah has been spotted on trial at Major League Soccer side Colorado Rapids, formerly of Gambia international Sanna Nyassi.
Bah, 20, has been without a club since leaving USL Pro league side The Charleston Battery of Amadou Sanyang but might soon find himself one if he impresses.
He participated in the team’s training session and there could be an option for him to travel with the team to Texas for the Rapids final Reserve League match of the season. The Rapids Reserves are 5-2-1 in the Central Conference and play their final match on Tuesday evening at FC Dallas.
Seedy Bah went to the United States in 2010 as part of an exchange programme with the club side Colorado Rush, who run a Rush Academy in the Gambia.
After trialing with Seattle Sounders FC of Major League Soccer during the spring of 2011, Bah signed with Charleston Battery in the USL Professional Division on March 23, 2011.
He made his professional debut on April 9, 2011 in a game against the Charlotte Eagles and left the club in August last year scoring two goals in 21 appearances. He has represented Gambia at U-17 level, and has also spent time with the US Development academy.
Scorpions unmoved in latest FIFA ranking
Scorpions of The Gambia
September 5th 2012
Idle since the 4-1 lose to Algeria in the month of August, The Gambia national team have retained its ranking of 129 in the monthly FIFA World Ranking released Wednesday.
The Scorpions remained unchanged in the world rankings but move one place in the African standings lying 39 with 257 points accumulated.
No fewer than four African teams have achieved their highest-ever FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking position: Mali (32nd, up 7), Libya (36th, up 2), Central African Republic (64th, up 7) and South Sudan (197th, up 2).
The next ranking list faces a lot more changes when it is released on October 3 as most teams would be in action in various international competitions, not least the Africans, with 28 teams [excluding Gambia] taking part in the third qualifying round for the final round of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
The latest edition of the FIFA list in the last month took into account the results of 54 ‘A’ internationals, all of which were friendlies distributed over all six confederations.
While the top ten has seen only one change, with Portugal (4th, up 1) swapping places with Uruguay (5th, down 1), there has been a lot more activity in the remainder of the top 20, where Switzerland (20th, up 3) have extended Europe’s predominance as the 14th UEFA team, Mexico (21st, down 3) have fallen below 20th for the first time since March 2012, and Ecuador (17th, up 3) have become one of the top 20 teams in their continued climb from the previous month by moving up a further three places.
The major movers in the top 50 include European sides Slovenia (24th, up 9), Belgium (40th, up 13), and Austria (49th, up 11), whose 2-0 win at home to Turkey has seen them back in the top 50 after one and a half years.
Belgium have brought their three-and-a-half-month stretch out of the top 50 to an end with a 4-2 victory over neighbouring Netherlands, extending the Red Devils’ unbeaten run at home to nine, while Slovenia secured their first victory over Romania in six years, winning 4-3.
The top 10 nations in the current listing are: 1. Spain 2. Germany 3. England 4. Portugal 5. Uruguay 6. Italy 7. Argentina 8. Netherlands 9. Croatia 10. Denmark.
Brazil are in a position – 12th – they are not familiar with as they are normally very high on the list.
Idle since the 4-1 lose to Algeria in the month of August, The Gambia national team have retained its ranking of 129 in the monthly FIFA World Ranking released Wednesday.
The Scorpions remained unchanged in the world rankings but move one place in the African standings lying 39 with 257 points accumulated.
No fewer than four African teams have achieved their highest-ever FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking position: Mali (32nd, up 7), Libya (36th, up 2), Central African Republic (64th, up 7) and South Sudan (197th, up 2).
The next ranking list faces a lot more changes when it is released on October 3 as most teams would be in action in various international competitions, not least the Africans, with 28 teams [excluding Gambia] taking part in the third qualifying round for the final round of the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
The latest edition of the FIFA list in the last month took into account the results of 54 ‘A’ internationals, all of which were friendlies distributed over all six confederations.
While the top ten has seen only one change, with Portugal (4th, up 1) swapping places with Uruguay (5th, down 1), there has been a lot more activity in the remainder of the top 20, where Switzerland (20th, up 3) have extended Europe’s predominance as the 14th UEFA team, Mexico (21st, down 3) have fallen below 20th for the first time since March 2012, and Ecuador (17th, up 3) have become one of the top 20 teams in their continued climb from the previous month by moving up a further three places.
The major movers in the top 50 include European sides Slovenia (24th, up 9), Belgium (40th, up 13), and Austria (49th, up 11), whose 2-0 win at home to Turkey has seen them back in the top 50 after one and a half years.
Belgium have brought their three-and-a-half-month stretch out of the top 50 to an end with a 4-2 victory over neighbouring Netherlands, extending the Red Devils’ unbeaten run at home to nine, while Slovenia secured their first victory over Romania in six years, winning 4-3.
The top 10 nations in the current listing are: 1. Spain 2. Germany 3. England 4. Portugal 5. Uruguay 6. Italy 7. Argentina 8. Netherlands 9. Croatia 10. Denmark.
Brazil are in a position – 12th – they are not familiar with as they are normally very high on the list.
Pa Modou Jagne’s Sankt Gallen top
Pa Modou Jagne alias Nda
September 5th 2012
Gambia international Pa Modou Jagne and his Swiss side FC St. Gallen continued their fine form in the Super League as they replaced FC Sion at the top of the standings after stunning the erstwhile leaders 3-0 in their own back yard.
Nda’s St Gallen shocked the Sion-based side at the Stade de Tourbillon as Marco Mathys struck twice at either end of the first half to put them in control and Ezequiel Scarione completed the victory with a third late on as hosts Sion slumped to their second successive defeat.
Nda and his Gallen are yet to lose a game since coming back to the top tier of Swiss football. They are now two points above Sion, who dropped to third after also being leap-frogged by Grasshoppers following their 2-0 win at Lausanne.
Gambia international Pa Modou Jagne and his Swiss side FC St. Gallen continued their fine form in the Super League as they replaced FC Sion at the top of the standings after stunning the erstwhile leaders 3-0 in their own back yard.
Nda’s St Gallen shocked the Sion-based side at the Stade de Tourbillon as Marco Mathys struck twice at either end of the first half to put them in control and Ezequiel Scarione completed the victory with a third late on as hosts Sion slumped to their second successive defeat.
Nda and his Gallen are yet to lose a game since coming back to the top tier of Swiss football. They are now two points above Sion, who dropped to third after also being leap-frogged by Grasshoppers following their 2-0 win at Lausanne.
Ousman Jallow strikes in Rizespor’s draw against Demirspor
Gambia international Ousman Jallow
September 5th 2012
Gambia international Ousman Jallow has opened his goal scoring account in the Turkish second-tier by scoring a goal in his team’s 2-2 draw against Adana Demirspor.
Ous Jallow, 23, scored 15 goals last season in 34 appearances for Çaykur Rizespor and is on course to repeat that feat again this year after he opened his goal scoring account in his team’s second match of the season.
Jallow’s strike-partner, Severin Brice Bikoko of Cameroon, left the team to join top tier side Akhisar Belediyespor but no sooner had he left, the team found a replacement for him in on-form Nigerian striker Uche Kalu who was also on song again for Rizespor in the 2-2 draw.
The former Enyimba striker announced his arrival in Turkey with a goal on his debut last weekend and then opened scoring for his team in his second game to put them ahead after 10 minutes.
Kalu’s strike was cancelled out by Demirspor’s Gökhan Kaba in the 32nd minute with the teams heading into the break with a 1-1 draw.
It didn’t take long for the Gambian striker to open his scoring account and give his team the lead in the 51st minute after finding his way through inside the penalty area and striking the ball past Ramazan Kursunlu but they were pegged back in the last quarter hour of the game as Emre Hasan Balcı’s strike salvaged a point for Demirspor.
With the draw, Jallow and his Rizespor now lie 6th in the 18-team-table with four points. They host TKİ Tavşanlı Linyitspor next at the Yeni Rize Şehir Stadı.
Gambia international Ousman Jallow has opened his goal scoring account in the Turkish second-tier by scoring a goal in his team’s 2-2 draw against Adana Demirspor.
Ous Jallow, 23, scored 15 goals last season in 34 appearances for Çaykur Rizespor and is on course to repeat that feat again this year after he opened his goal scoring account in his team’s second match of the season.
Jallow’s strike-partner, Severin Brice Bikoko of Cameroon, left the team to join top tier side Akhisar Belediyespor but no sooner had he left, the team found a replacement for him in on-form Nigerian striker Uche Kalu who was also on song again for Rizespor in the 2-2 draw.
The former Enyimba striker announced his arrival in Turkey with a goal on his debut last weekend and then opened scoring for his team in his second game to put them ahead after 10 minutes.
Kalu’s strike was cancelled out by Demirspor’s Gökhan Kaba in the 32nd minute with the teams heading into the break with a 1-1 draw.
It didn’t take long for the Gambian striker to open his scoring account and give his team the lead in the 51st minute after finding his way through inside the penalty area and striking the ball past Ramazan Kursunlu but they were pegged back in the last quarter hour of the game as Emre Hasan Balcı’s strike salvaged a point for Demirspor.
With the draw, Jallow and his Rizespor now lie 6th in the 18-team-table with four points. They host TKİ Tavşanlı Linyitspor next at the Yeni Rize Şehir Stadı.
Matthew Mendy joins Balzan in Malta
Matthew Mendy
20th August 2012
Former Gambia vice-captain and defender Matthew Mendy has joined Maltese Premier League side Balzan F.C from Trönö IK, Gambia Sports Online can reliably reveal.
Matthew, 29, joined Balzan on a one year contract with an option to extend. He joined the team after his contract at Swedish Division 3 Södra Norrland side, Trönö IK elapsed. Matthew according to his representative, Michael Kallback, will be marking his debut for the team when it faces Hamrun Spartans.
Matthew went to Trönö after having a one-year stint at Chinese based club Anhui Jiufang in the China League One. He later moved to another Chinese League One side this year, Shenyang Shenbei F.C but was unsuccessful at the club prompting the Swedish club to come calling for him.
Matthew started his professional career in USA for George Mason University in 2003 and had a four-year spell with them. He later moved to Germany to have spells with KFC Uerdingen 05and 1. FC Kleve.
Spending only a month with Kleve, he later signed for Austrian outfit FC Vöcklabruck. He started his international career with The Gambia since 2006 where he was one time, vice-captain and is reportedly to have capped for The Gambia nine times.
About the club and league
Balzan Football Club is a Maltese football club from the village of Balzan, which currently plays in the Maltese Premier League. The club was founded in 1937, and has played top-level football once before in 2003–04.
The Maltese Premier League, known as BOV Premier League for sponsorship reasons (colloquially known as Il-Kampjonat, Il-Lig, or Il-Premjer), is the top level league for football in Malta. The league was first competed in 1909.
In the Maltese football system, there are three divisions under the Premier League, they are; the First, Second and Third divisions. Prior to 1980, the top level of the Maltese Football League was known as the First Division; however, it was renamed the Premier League and has stayed so since, with the First Division (formerly known as the Second Division) one level lower.
The Maltese Premier League is currently ranked by the UEFA coefficient in 45th place out of 53 current members.
Former Gambia vice-captain and defender Matthew Mendy has joined Maltese Premier League side Balzan F.C from Trönö IK, Gambia Sports Online can reliably reveal.
Matthew, 29, joined Balzan on a one year contract with an option to extend. He joined the team after his contract at Swedish Division 3 Södra Norrland side, Trönö IK elapsed. Matthew according to his representative, Michael Kallback, will be marking his debut for the team when it faces Hamrun Spartans.
Matthew went to Trönö after having a one-year stint at Chinese based club Anhui Jiufang in the China League One. He later moved to another Chinese League One side this year, Shenyang Shenbei F.C but was unsuccessful at the club prompting the Swedish club to come calling for him.
Matthew started his professional career in USA for George Mason University in 2003 and had a four-year spell with them. He later moved to Germany to have spells with KFC Uerdingen 05and 1. FC Kleve.
Spending only a month with Kleve, he later signed for Austrian outfit FC Vöcklabruck. He started his international career with The Gambia since 2006 where he was one time, vice-captain and is reportedly to have capped for The Gambia nine times.
About the club and league
Balzan Football Club is a Maltese football club from the village of Balzan, which currently plays in the Maltese Premier League. The club was founded in 1937, and has played top-level football once before in 2003–04.
The Maltese Premier League, known as BOV Premier League for sponsorship reasons (colloquially known as Il-Kampjonat, Il-Lig, or Il-Premjer), is the top level league for football in Malta. The league was first competed in 1909.
In the Maltese football system, there are three divisions under the Premier League, they are; the First, Second and Third divisions. Prior to 1980, the top level of the Maltese Football League was known as the First Division; however, it was renamed the Premier League and has stayed so since, with the First Division (formerly known as the Second Division) one level lower.
The Maltese Premier League is currently ranked by the UEFA coefficient in 45th place out of 53 current members.
Toubabo’s goal not enough as Mons beaten
Mustapha "Toubabo" Jarju
20th August 2012
Gambia international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju was on target but Anderlecht beat his ten-man RAEC Mons courtesy of goals by former Liverpool man Milan Jovanović and Sacha Iakovenko in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League.
It was third time lucky for Anderlecht as they finally beat RAEC Mons since their return to the top division with a hard fought game in the baking Belgian sun on Saturday evening. Dieumerci Mbokani was Anderlecht’s most inspiration player but he was unable to break the deadlock in a game where Mons made the Belgian champions look ordinary.
It took the former Liverpool man, Jovanović to finally take the lead a couple minutes before the intermission. The Serbian was set up for the strike by Tom De Sutter. Mons got on the scoreboard in the 56th minute as they put together a nice game of keep-away until finally Mustapha Jarju pulled the trigger and beat Silvio Proto in les Mauves goal.
The celebrations were short lived however when, a minute later, Anderlecht charged down the other end and Mbokani was played through the middle. As he made it into the 18 yard box, defender Jerermy Sapina made too much contact and the Congolese tumbled to the ground. Sapina then made the slow walk back to the locker room, having been shown a straight red card.
For the fourth time however in as many games Anderlecht was unable to convert from the spot. This time it was Polish intenational Marcin Wasilewski who set the ball on the spot and duly whacked the ball into the arms of Olivier Warner. Even with ten men the Dragons had no desire to defend and play for a point.
The game was wide open with chances at both ends. Les Mauves’ hard work eventually paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Iakovenko got his head on a cross and finally beat Werner. Mons however fought until the very end and the victory wasn’t guaranteed until the final whistle.
With the defeat, Toubabo and his Mons now lie eight in the 16-team-table with five points from four games.
Meanwhile, Ibou Sawaneh’s OH Leuven trailed twice against Cercle Brugge but fought back to win 3-2 and record their first victory of the season.
Gambia international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju was on target but Anderlecht beat his ten-man RAEC Mons courtesy of goals by former Liverpool man Milan Jovanović and Sacha Iakovenko in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League.
It was third time lucky for Anderlecht as they finally beat RAEC Mons since their return to the top division with a hard fought game in the baking Belgian sun on Saturday evening. Dieumerci Mbokani was Anderlecht’s most inspiration player but he was unable to break the deadlock in a game where Mons made the Belgian champions look ordinary.
It took the former Liverpool man, Jovanović to finally take the lead a couple minutes before the intermission. The Serbian was set up for the strike by Tom De Sutter. Mons got on the scoreboard in the 56th minute as they put together a nice game of keep-away until finally Mustapha Jarju pulled the trigger and beat Silvio Proto in les Mauves goal.
The celebrations were short lived however when, a minute later, Anderlecht charged down the other end and Mbokani was played through the middle. As he made it into the 18 yard box, defender Jerermy Sapina made too much contact and the Congolese tumbled to the ground. Sapina then made the slow walk back to the locker room, having been shown a straight red card.
For the fourth time however in as many games Anderlecht was unable to convert from the spot. This time it was Polish intenational Marcin Wasilewski who set the ball on the spot and duly whacked the ball into the arms of Olivier Warner. Even with ten men the Dragons had no desire to defend and play for a point.
The game was wide open with chances at both ends. Les Mauves’ hard work eventually paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Iakovenko got his head on a cross and finally beat Werner. Mons however fought until the very end and the victory wasn’t guaranteed until the final whistle.
With the defeat, Toubabo and his Mons now lie eight in the 16-team-table with five points from four games.
Meanwhile, Ibou Sawaneh’s OH Leuven trailed twice against Cercle Brugge but fought back to win 3-2 and record their first victory of the season.
Savage’s HJK face Athletic Bilbao in Europa League play-off
Demba Savage
20th August 2012
Gambia international Demba Savage and his Finnish Veikkausliiga side HJK Helsinki will face Spanish La Liga side Athletic Bilbao in the preliminary round of the UEFA Europa League after their exit in the Champions League qualifiers.
The first-round match will be played at San Mamés in Bilbao on August 23rd. Savage and his HJK will then later on host Athletic Bilbao at the Sonera stadium in the Finnish capital one week later on the 30th. Both teams have never met each other before.
HJK Helsinki was founded in 1907 and is considered the best team in Finland. They have 25 national league titles, won the Finland cup 11 times and the Finnish League Cup on 3 occasions. They have played 107 matches in all UEFA competitions and are ranked 191 in the UEFA Club Ranking.
Gambia international Demba Savage and his Finnish Veikkausliiga side HJK Helsinki will face Spanish La Liga side Athletic Bilbao in the preliminary round of the UEFA Europa League after their exit in the Champions League qualifiers.
The first-round match will be played at San Mamés in Bilbao on August 23rd. Savage and his HJK will then later on host Athletic Bilbao at the Sonera stadium in the Finnish capital one week later on the 30th. Both teams have never met each other before.
HJK Helsinki was founded in 1907 and is considered the best team in Finland. They have 25 national league titles, won the Finland cup 11 times and the Finnish League Cup on 3 occasions. They have played 107 matches in all UEFA competitions and are ranked 191 in the UEFA Club Ranking.
OJ’s goal help Rovers cruise to victory
Omar "OJ" Koroma
July 30th 2012
A well-worked first half goal by Gambia international Omar Koroma secured his Forest Green Rovers victory over Npower Championship opponents Cardiff City.
It was an encouraging continuation to Rovers pre-season preparations against last season’s League Cup runners up who were taking to the field for the first time in pre-season and brought a large following to Gloucestershire.
A bright Forest Green opening was led from the front by forward man Matt Taylor whose early strike flew wide, whilst dogged work shortly after saw Taylor’s effort on goal clip Israeli international man Dekal Keinan and bounce off the post.
Omar Koroma then saw his headed effort easily gathered by Cardiff shot stopper Joe Lewis but the away sides new face almost had a moment of embarrassment minutes later when Taylor charged down an attempted clearance that almost rolled back into the net.
Cardiff began to find their feet following Rovers dominant opening and it was Filip Kiss who tried his best with a number of long efforts with Sam Russell comfortably stopping the first. With Rovers looking the stronger side, against a team playing their first pre-season game of the summer, the hosts would take the lead courtesy of excellent work by James Norwood.
The pacey wingers charging run down the left saw him feed a fantastic ball in to the box and OJ tucked the ball under Lewis to put Rovers ahead. Another dipping shot from Kiss marked the away sides response, while the Welsh side ended the half with their best chance when another of the visitors new additions, Etien Velikonja, glanced a header just wide.
An entire new Cardiff eleven took to the field for the second half but Forest Green’s excellent tuned-in possession play saw the host’s boss the opening quarter of an hour in the second half.
Jamie Turley’s low shot from distance which rolled wide past the hour mark was a rare effort on goal in the second period and it wasn’t until the 69th minute when the visitors had their first attempt of the half.
Wales international Darcy Blake tried his best to level the score line with a right footed effort which skipped wide meanwhile another effort from Gunnarsson provided Russell with little threat. The match withered out in the final ten minutes as Rovers comfortably held on to their first home win of pre-season with Cardiff starting their season build up in defeat.
A well-worked first half goal by Gambia international Omar Koroma secured his Forest Green Rovers victory over Npower Championship opponents Cardiff City.
It was an encouraging continuation to Rovers pre-season preparations against last season’s League Cup runners up who were taking to the field for the first time in pre-season and brought a large following to Gloucestershire.
A bright Forest Green opening was led from the front by forward man Matt Taylor whose early strike flew wide, whilst dogged work shortly after saw Taylor’s effort on goal clip Israeli international man Dekal Keinan and bounce off the post.
Omar Koroma then saw his headed effort easily gathered by Cardiff shot stopper Joe Lewis but the away sides new face almost had a moment of embarrassment minutes later when Taylor charged down an attempted clearance that almost rolled back into the net.
Cardiff began to find their feet following Rovers dominant opening and it was Filip Kiss who tried his best with a number of long efforts with Sam Russell comfortably stopping the first. With Rovers looking the stronger side, against a team playing their first pre-season game of the summer, the hosts would take the lead courtesy of excellent work by James Norwood.
The pacey wingers charging run down the left saw him feed a fantastic ball in to the box and OJ tucked the ball under Lewis to put Rovers ahead. Another dipping shot from Kiss marked the away sides response, while the Welsh side ended the half with their best chance when another of the visitors new additions, Etien Velikonja, glanced a header just wide.
An entire new Cardiff eleven took to the field for the second half but Forest Green’s excellent tuned-in possession play saw the host’s boss the opening quarter of an hour in the second half.
Jamie Turley’s low shot from distance which rolled wide past the hour mark was a rare effort on goal in the second period and it wasn’t until the 69th minute when the visitors had their first attempt of the half.
Wales international Darcy Blake tried his best to level the score line with a right footed effort which skipped wide meanwhile another effort from Gunnarsson provided Russell with little threat. The match withered out in the final ten minutes as Rovers comfortably held on to their first home win of pre-season with Cardiff starting their season build up in defeat.
Sanna scores his fourth in Impact’s win over New York Red Bulls
Sanna scores his fourth goal
July 30th 2012
Gambia international Sanna Nyassi scored his fourth goal of the season as his Montreal Impact won its third game in a row at Stade Saputo by beating the Eastern Conference leading New York Red Bulls of Thierry Henry 3-1 in front of 19,441 spectators, the first sellout since Stade Saputo’s expansion.
Impact Designated Player Marco Di Vaio scored his first career goal in MLS, while Brazilian midfielder Felipe had three assists in the win. Di Vaio broke the deadlock in the 48th minute when midfielders Felipe and Justin Mapp played two short lateral passes from about 25 yards out that found Di Vaio alone near the left corner of the box. Di Vaio carried the ball in and fired a left footed shot that beat New York Red Bulls' goalkeeper Gaudette low, to the far side.
The Impact doubled its lead two minutes later when Felipe played a short chip ball over the New York defence to fellow midfielder Davy Arnaud. The captain broke in alone on goal and beat Gaudette from 16 yards out with a high shot over the keeper’s right shoulder.
The Red Bulls cut the Impact’s lead in half when midfielder Joel Lindpere played a cross from deep down the left flank to the far post in the 57th minute. Forward Thierry Henry brought the ball down before firing a right-footed shot that beat Impact goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts high over his left shoulder as he came out to challenge the shot.
Sanna Nyassi put the Impact back up by two goals in the 74th minute. Di Vaio played a ball across the top of the box to Felipe, who found Sanna towards his left with a through ball.
Sanna broke in alone, dribbled around Gaudette who came charging out of his crease to the outside, and fired home his team’s insurance goal into an open net from near the goal line. It was his 5th career goal versus New York Red Bulls.
Sanna and his Impact will now look set to revenge a 2-1 road loss to the Philadelphia Union next Saturday at Stade Saputo.
Gambia international Sanna Nyassi scored his fourth goal of the season as his Montreal Impact won its third game in a row at Stade Saputo by beating the Eastern Conference leading New York Red Bulls of Thierry Henry 3-1 in front of 19,441 spectators, the first sellout since Stade Saputo’s expansion.
Impact Designated Player Marco Di Vaio scored his first career goal in MLS, while Brazilian midfielder Felipe had three assists in the win. Di Vaio broke the deadlock in the 48th minute when midfielders Felipe and Justin Mapp played two short lateral passes from about 25 yards out that found Di Vaio alone near the left corner of the box. Di Vaio carried the ball in and fired a left footed shot that beat New York Red Bulls' goalkeeper Gaudette low, to the far side.
The Impact doubled its lead two minutes later when Felipe played a short chip ball over the New York defence to fellow midfielder Davy Arnaud. The captain broke in alone on goal and beat Gaudette from 16 yards out with a high shot over the keeper’s right shoulder.
The Red Bulls cut the Impact’s lead in half when midfielder Joel Lindpere played a cross from deep down the left flank to the far post in the 57th minute. Forward Thierry Henry brought the ball down before firing a right-footed shot that beat Impact goalkeeper Donovan Ricketts high over his left shoulder as he came out to challenge the shot.
Sanna Nyassi put the Impact back up by two goals in the 74th minute. Di Vaio played a ball across the top of the box to Felipe, who found Sanna towards his left with a through ball.
Sanna broke in alone, dribbled around Gaudette who came charging out of his crease to the outside, and fired home his team’s insurance goal into an open net from near the goal line. It was his 5th career goal versus New York Red Bulls.
Sanna and his Impact will now look set to revenge a 2-1 road loss to the Philadelphia Union next Saturday at Stade Saputo.
Njogu’s Esbjerg defeated by SønderjyskE
Njogu's Esbjerg downed
July 30th 2012
Gambia international Njogu Demba and his promoted Danish Superligaen side Esbjerg fB suffered their second defeat in the Danish topflight after a 2-1 defeat to SønderjyskE at the Blue Water Arena.
Last weekend’s 0-0 draw to AGF gave Njogu and his team their first point in the top flight and were looking to better that performance by winning this game but it wasn’t meant to be for them.
The visitors, SønderjyskE, wasted no time in jumping to an early lead, with Lasse Vibe slipping in behind the defense to pull down a long ball over the top from Eyjolfur Hedinsson, then smacking it from the left side of the area to the far upper corner.
The hosts equalized just past the half-hour in wholly unexpected fashion, as a corner from Arnor Smarason flew over a crowd of players and looped untouched into goal for the rarest of goals.
With the game looking headed to a draw, the visitors secured the three valuable points seconds past the end of regulation, with Bjorn Paulsen rising high to meet a cross from the left side with an acrobatic header.
Njogu was brought on in the 90th minute but it was little too late for him as he couldn’t help Jess Thorup’s side succumbing to defeat. The defeat leaves them at 11th in the 12-team-table with a point from three.
They will host Danish powerhouse FC Copenhagen next at the 18000 capacity Blue Water Arena.
Gambia international Njogu Demba and his promoted Danish Superligaen side Esbjerg fB suffered their second defeat in the Danish topflight after a 2-1 defeat to SønderjyskE at the Blue Water Arena.
Last weekend’s 0-0 draw to AGF gave Njogu and his team their first point in the top flight and were looking to better that performance by winning this game but it wasn’t meant to be for them.
The visitors, SønderjyskE, wasted no time in jumping to an early lead, with Lasse Vibe slipping in behind the defense to pull down a long ball over the top from Eyjolfur Hedinsson, then smacking it from the left side of the area to the far upper corner.
The hosts equalized just past the half-hour in wholly unexpected fashion, as a corner from Arnor Smarason flew over a crowd of players and looped untouched into goal for the rarest of goals.
With the game looking headed to a draw, the visitors secured the three valuable points seconds past the end of regulation, with Bjorn Paulsen rising high to meet a cross from the left side with an acrobatic header.
Njogu was brought on in the 90th minute but it was little too late for him as he couldn’t help Jess Thorup’s side succumbing to defeat. The defeat leaves them at 11th in the 12-team-table with a point from three.
They will host Danish powerhouse FC Copenhagen next at the 18000 capacity Blue Water Arena.
Alieu Darbo not a Wigan player
Alieu Darbo NOT a Wigan player
July 24th 2012
English Premier League and 2004/2005 Football League Championship winning side Wigan Athletic F.C has confirmed to Gambia Sports Online that Swedish-born Gambian Alieu Darbo has not signed for the club contrary to reports that he did.
The former Gambia Under 17 & 20 international claimed in March that he is close to penning a deal with the Premiership outfit and was expected to sign on a free transfer at the DW Stadium after being released from his contract at Ligue 2 club Le Mans in January.
It could be recalled that the Gambian winger spent time at Sunderland’s Academy of Light training ground and claimed that he turned down the opportunity to join Martin O’Neill’s side in favour of the Latics though it was believed that he had impressed the Sunderland boss but struggled to gain a work permit and was training with Newcastle United later on.
Alieu later told Swedish tabloid newspaper Aftonbladet’s sports column called Sportbladet that he has an agreement with Wigan saying, “I have a verbal agreement with Wigan [Athletic]. At the moment, I have a problem with my knee and must do some rehab work to get myself fit.”
“Then, hopefully, in about two weeks time, I will go to Wigan and sign a contract with them,” which he claimed later on that he did in April and according to reports monitored in the Swedish media, he apparently signed a three-year contract which never turned out to be true as Gambia Sports Online later on came to find out.
In Gambia Sports Online’s online quest to give its readers accurate and factual information, it sent this enquiry message to the club’s secretary Stuart Hayton:
“Hello Sir,
Greetings from The Gambia, West Africa. I am Modou Lamin BEYAI, online editor of Gambia Sports Online [www.gambiasports.gm] and I am writing to enquire about Alieu Darbo’s claims that he has 'signed' for your humble club Wigan Athletic.
News have been going round that he has signed a three-year-deal with the club and that there is one guy on Facebook impersonating to be your manager, Roberto Martinez, which leads to my question, is he on facebook?
The guy keeps on posting words on Darbo's wall as if he is the actual manager, well not sure about that and I will like to have confirmation from you. My questions are, is it TRUE that Alieu Darbo, 20, has signed for Wigan Athletic? Secondly, is your manager on Facebook?
Thanks for taking time and reading this message, I will be expecting a reply soon as it is bugging the minds of many Gambians right now who think that the lad has signed for your club but NO confirmation on your website yet.
Sincerely,
Modou Lamin BEYAI, ONLINE Editor,” and to our surprise, Hayton replied back saying, “Sorry none of this is true” and when asked what will now be the club’s stance on this issue as it is a serious one and damaging the image of his club in some way, he replied back saying, “No damage has been caused to Wigan Athletic. Clearly such things as this are FAKE and not the way a professional organization would conduct its business.”
Gambia Sports Online later on contacted Swedish journalist Jakob Celik of Fotboll Transfers to confirm the story as Wigan were in Sweden for a pre-season friendly game against Division 2 side Östersunds FK.
Celik confirmed that Alieu’s claims were false and baseless. He informed us that the club’s Chairman Daniel Kindberg, on behalf of Wigan’s manager Roberto Martinez, confirmed that Alieu’s claims are unfounded.
“It is a total scam. He has never been on trial with them and Wigan have never heard of him,” Östersunds FK’s Chairman Daniel Kindberg told Jakob. When asked why a player would do such, Kindberg said, “Normally it’s the agents or advisers who do not adhere completely to the truth, but in this case the player himself fooled many people [particularly Gambians]. He wants to try to sell his own name.”
English Premier League and 2004/2005 Football League Championship winning side Wigan Athletic F.C has confirmed to Gambia Sports Online that Swedish-born Gambian Alieu Darbo has not signed for the club contrary to reports that he did.
The former Gambia Under 17 & 20 international claimed in March that he is close to penning a deal with the Premiership outfit and was expected to sign on a free transfer at the DW Stadium after being released from his contract at Ligue 2 club Le Mans in January.
It could be recalled that the Gambian winger spent time at Sunderland’s Academy of Light training ground and claimed that he turned down the opportunity to join Martin O’Neill’s side in favour of the Latics though it was believed that he had impressed the Sunderland boss but struggled to gain a work permit and was training with Newcastle United later on.
Alieu later told Swedish tabloid newspaper Aftonbladet’s sports column called Sportbladet that he has an agreement with Wigan saying, “I have a verbal agreement with Wigan [Athletic]. At the moment, I have a problem with my knee and must do some rehab work to get myself fit.”
“Then, hopefully, in about two weeks time, I will go to Wigan and sign a contract with them,” which he claimed later on that he did in April and according to reports monitored in the Swedish media, he apparently signed a three-year contract which never turned out to be true as Gambia Sports Online later on came to find out.
In Gambia Sports Online’s online quest to give its readers accurate and factual information, it sent this enquiry message to the club’s secretary Stuart Hayton:
“Hello Sir,
Greetings from The Gambia, West Africa. I am Modou Lamin BEYAI, online editor of Gambia Sports Online [www.gambiasports.gm] and I am writing to enquire about Alieu Darbo’s claims that he has 'signed' for your humble club Wigan Athletic.
News have been going round that he has signed a three-year-deal with the club and that there is one guy on Facebook impersonating to be your manager, Roberto Martinez, which leads to my question, is he on facebook?
The guy keeps on posting words on Darbo's wall as if he is the actual manager, well not sure about that and I will like to have confirmation from you. My questions are, is it TRUE that Alieu Darbo, 20, has signed for Wigan Athletic? Secondly, is your manager on Facebook?
Thanks for taking time and reading this message, I will be expecting a reply soon as it is bugging the minds of many Gambians right now who think that the lad has signed for your club but NO confirmation on your website yet.
Sincerely,
Modou Lamin BEYAI, ONLINE Editor,” and to our surprise, Hayton replied back saying, “Sorry none of this is true” and when asked what will now be the club’s stance on this issue as it is a serious one and damaging the image of his club in some way, he replied back saying, “No damage has been caused to Wigan Athletic. Clearly such things as this are FAKE and not the way a professional organization would conduct its business.”
Gambia Sports Online later on contacted Swedish journalist Jakob Celik of Fotboll Transfers to confirm the story as Wigan were in Sweden for a pre-season friendly game against Division 2 side Östersunds FK.
Celik confirmed that Alieu’s claims were false and baseless. He informed us that the club’s Chairman Daniel Kindberg, on behalf of Wigan’s manager Roberto Martinez, confirmed that Alieu’s claims are unfounded.
“It is a total scam. He has never been on trial with them and Wigan have never heard of him,” Östersunds FK’s Chairman Daniel Kindberg told Jakob. When asked why a player would do such, Kindberg said, “Normally it’s the agents or advisers who do not adhere completely to the truth, but in this case the player himself fooled many people [particularly Gambians]. He wants to try to sell his own name.”
Pa Dembo Touray about to change clubs
Pa Dembo might leave Santos
July 23rd 2012
Gambia international goaltender Pa Dembo Touray might leave his relegated South African Premier League side Engen Santos, Gambia Sports Online can reveal.
Pa Dembo, 32, signed a two-year contract with the club in February, a deal that will see him stay at the club until 2014 but according to the Gambian’s advisor, he might leave the club before then if there are concrete offers from interested clubs.
Pa Dembo offers experience and leadership, having played in the Swedish top flight since the tender age of 20. He went with a presence like no other keeper in the South African league. Towering at 1.98cm (6 ft 6 in) and having an extensive wingspan, Pa Dembo is an aerial juggernaut that should be near impossible to beat in the air but he couldn’t help save his Cape Town club from relegation.
Santos are keen to keep hold of their star players including Pa Dembo but if his advisor’s words are to be believed, then the giant goalkeeper will not be following the team into relegation.
“Santos is very happy and wants to keep him, but we’ll see what will happen. So far, there is nothing concrete, but he has had a very good season and then it has little to do with how many foreigners they should have. One must have a maximum of five foreigners, and they got rid of one for taking in Pa Dembo last winter,” Pa Dembo’s advisor Bo Andersson told Fotboll Direkt.
Pa Dembo is keen to stay in South Africa as he loves the country and its people. Reports have it that he might be going back to Sweden to round up his career there but Andersson was quick to rubbish those reports.
When asked if his player will be moving back to Sweden, he said, “No, no, no, he wants to stay in South Africa. He really likes it down there and it’s good for him, but the season did not end so well for him because they were hoping to stay in the top flight but unfortunately, they lost in the [relegation/promotion] play-offs [against Chippa United].”
Pa Dembo Touray began his footballing career with Real de Banjul F.C. in Gambia. In 2000, he moved to Stockholm in Sweden to play for Djurgården IF in the highest domestic league, Allsvenskan.
He spent two respective loan spells with Assyriska FF and Vålerenga IF before returning to Djurgården following the sale of Swedish international goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson. After Isaksson’s departure, Pa Dembo was handed an extended run in the team, and since maintained his position as first-choice goalkeeper at the club.
He was also rewarded with the club captaincy after several seasons of consistency and following the 2011 season was selected as the top goalkeeper in the Allsvenskan. At the conclusion of the 2011 season, after a decade at Djurgården IF, Pa Dembo left the club having appeared in 195 league matches for the club.
Gambia international goaltender Pa Dembo Touray might leave his relegated South African Premier League side Engen Santos, Gambia Sports Online can reveal.
Pa Dembo, 32, signed a two-year contract with the club in February, a deal that will see him stay at the club until 2014 but according to the Gambian’s advisor, he might leave the club before then if there are concrete offers from interested clubs.
Pa Dembo offers experience and leadership, having played in the Swedish top flight since the tender age of 20. He went with a presence like no other keeper in the South African league. Towering at 1.98cm (6 ft 6 in) and having an extensive wingspan, Pa Dembo is an aerial juggernaut that should be near impossible to beat in the air but he couldn’t help save his Cape Town club from relegation.
Santos are keen to keep hold of their star players including Pa Dembo but if his advisor’s words are to be believed, then the giant goalkeeper will not be following the team into relegation.
“Santos is very happy and wants to keep him, but we’ll see what will happen. So far, there is nothing concrete, but he has had a very good season and then it has little to do with how many foreigners they should have. One must have a maximum of five foreigners, and they got rid of one for taking in Pa Dembo last winter,” Pa Dembo’s advisor Bo Andersson told Fotboll Direkt.
Pa Dembo is keen to stay in South Africa as he loves the country and its people. Reports have it that he might be going back to Sweden to round up his career there but Andersson was quick to rubbish those reports.
When asked if his player will be moving back to Sweden, he said, “No, no, no, he wants to stay in South Africa. He really likes it down there and it’s good for him, but the season did not end so well for him because they were hoping to stay in the top flight but unfortunately, they lost in the [relegation/promotion] play-offs [against Chippa United].”
Pa Dembo Touray began his footballing career with Real de Banjul F.C. in Gambia. In 2000, he moved to Stockholm in Sweden to play for Djurgården IF in the highest domestic league, Allsvenskan.
He spent two respective loan spells with Assyriska FF and Vålerenga IF before returning to Djurgården following the sale of Swedish international goalkeeper Andreas Isaksson. After Isaksson’s departure, Pa Dembo was handed an extended run in the team, and since maintained his position as first-choice goalkeeper at the club.
He was also rewarded with the club captaincy after several seasons of consistency and following the 2011 season was selected as the top goalkeeper in the Allsvenskan. At the conclusion of the 2011 season, after a decade at Djurgården IF, Pa Dembo left the club having appeared in 195 league matches for the club.
Middlesbrough close to sealing Carayol deal
Mustapha Carayol
July 19th 2012
English Championship side Middlesbrough F.C are close to sealing a deal for Gambian and Bristol Rovers winger Mustapha Carayol after holding another round of talks with the West Country club.
Tony Mowbray has enjoyed a fruitful few weeks, signing Grant Leadbitter, Stuart Parnaby, Jonathan Woodgate, Emmanuel Ledesma and Christian Burgess since the transfer window opened at the start of the month.
However, the Boro boss is still hoping to make another three or four additions before the season gets underway in the middle of August. Muzzy Carayol is a long-term target, with Mowbray having travelled to Southend to watch the Gambian at first hand last season.
Boro officials have held a number of discussions with their Bristol Rovers counterparts in an attempt to secure Carayol’s signature, but the 23-year-old’s price has been a sticking point. Rovers are hoping to receive more than £500,000, as they have to pay a 20 per cent sell-on clause to Carayol’s former employers, Lincoln City.
Middlesbrough have been reluctant to match the League Two club’s asking price, but a latest round of talks proved fruitful and Carayol was not involved in Bristol Rovers’ opening pre-season friendly last weekend.
Rovers boss Mark McGhee has already said he will not stand in Carayol’s way if a deal can be agreed, and a resolution looks increasingly likely before Boro head to Portugal on a pre-season training trip next week.
English Championship side Middlesbrough F.C are close to sealing a deal for Gambian and Bristol Rovers winger Mustapha Carayol after holding another round of talks with the West Country club.
Tony Mowbray has enjoyed a fruitful few weeks, signing Grant Leadbitter, Stuart Parnaby, Jonathan Woodgate, Emmanuel Ledesma and Christian Burgess since the transfer window opened at the start of the month.
However, the Boro boss is still hoping to make another three or four additions before the season gets underway in the middle of August. Muzzy Carayol is a long-term target, with Mowbray having travelled to Southend to watch the Gambian at first hand last season.
Boro officials have held a number of discussions with their Bristol Rovers counterparts in an attempt to secure Carayol’s signature, but the 23-year-old’s price has been a sticking point. Rovers are hoping to receive more than £500,000, as they have to pay a 20 per cent sell-on clause to Carayol’s former employers, Lincoln City.
Middlesbrough have been reluctant to match the League Two club’s asking price, but a latest round of talks proved fruitful and Carayol was not involved in Bristol Rovers’ opening pre-season friendly last weekend.
Rovers boss Mark McGhee has already said he will not stand in Carayol’s way if a deal can be agreed, and a resolution looks increasingly likely before Boro head to Portugal on a pre-season training trip next week.
Kebba Ceesay set to leave Djurgården
Kebba Ceesay leaving Sweden
July 18th 2012
Gambia international defender Kebba Ceesay has confirmed that he will not be extending his contract with Swedish Allsvenskan side Djurgården IF and is set to leave the club.
Contract negotiations between Kebba and Djurgården has been stalled for the past three months after the Swedish side wanted to tie the Gambian, who has a year left in his contract, to a long term contract which the defender rejected.
Kebba, 24, has now confirmed that he rejected the new offer on the table and it is believed that he has received offers from the MLS, France and in Poland.
When asked whether it is true that he will not renew his contract with the Stockholm based side, Kebba said, “Yes, that’s right. I will not renew my contract with Djurgården.”
Gambia Sports Online has gathered that the Gambian is in talks with three foreign clubs notably Mamadou “Futty” Danso’s Portland Timbers in the USA, a Polish football club based in Poznań, Lech Poznan, who ply their trade in the Ekstraklasa [top tier] and French Ligue 1 side Evian Thonon Gaillard F.C.
Kebba meanwhile have failed to reveal the name of the club he will be playing for next. When asked in an interview, he simply said, “No comments” but quickly added by saying, “the only thing I can say is that everything will hopefully be ready within a week or two”.
However, it is not clear yet if Kebba will be leaving Djurgården with immediate effect or whether he will be leaving after the 2012/2013 Allsvenskan season, but one thing for sure is that he will not be extending his contract.
“I have been here for six years and I feel that I need a new adventure in my life. All football player want to reach at the top and play in the best, I also want the same for myself. The coach [Magnus Pehrsson] knows that I will be leaving and he understands that,” Kebba concluded.
Kebba joined Djurgården from IK Brage at the start of the 2007 season and made his Allsvenskan debut for Djurgården in the Stockholm derby against Hammarby IF on August 13, 2007.
He usually plays as a right back even though he personally considers himself to be a central defender. In November 2009, he visited English side Notts County F.C. for a trial but no transfer was made. The 5ft 10in defender marked his debut for Gambia against Namibia in 2010.
Gambia international defender Kebba Ceesay has confirmed that he will not be extending his contract with Swedish Allsvenskan side Djurgården IF and is set to leave the club.
Contract negotiations between Kebba and Djurgården has been stalled for the past three months after the Swedish side wanted to tie the Gambian, who has a year left in his contract, to a long term contract which the defender rejected.
Kebba, 24, has now confirmed that he rejected the new offer on the table and it is believed that he has received offers from the MLS, France and in Poland.
When asked whether it is true that he will not renew his contract with the Stockholm based side, Kebba said, “Yes, that’s right. I will not renew my contract with Djurgården.”
Gambia Sports Online has gathered that the Gambian is in talks with three foreign clubs notably Mamadou “Futty” Danso’s Portland Timbers in the USA, a Polish football club based in Poznań, Lech Poznan, who ply their trade in the Ekstraklasa [top tier] and French Ligue 1 side Evian Thonon Gaillard F.C.
Kebba meanwhile have failed to reveal the name of the club he will be playing for next. When asked in an interview, he simply said, “No comments” but quickly added by saying, “the only thing I can say is that everything will hopefully be ready within a week or two”.
However, it is not clear yet if Kebba will be leaving Djurgården with immediate effect or whether he will be leaving after the 2012/2013 Allsvenskan season, but one thing for sure is that he will not be extending his contract.
“I have been here for six years and I feel that I need a new adventure in my life. All football player want to reach at the top and play in the best, I also want the same for myself. The coach [Magnus Pehrsson] knows that I will be leaving and he understands that,” Kebba concluded.
Kebba joined Djurgården from IK Brage at the start of the 2007 season and made his Allsvenskan debut for Djurgården in the Stockholm derby against Hammarby IF on August 13, 2007.
He usually plays as a right back even though he personally considers himself to be a central defender. In November 2009, he visited English side Notts County F.C. for a trial but no transfer was made. The 5ft 10in defender marked his debut for Gambia against Namibia in 2010.
Gam-Sweden wrap: Jawo draws Ceesay, Dibba and Amadou held, Barrow’s Norrköping cruise to victory
Jawo sent off in Syrianska's draw against Djurgården
July 11th 2012
It has been a week of contrasting fortunes for Gambians plying their trade in the top tier of Swedish football, Allsvenskan, as only one of them enjoyed a win with his team.
Viktor Prodell scored twice, including an 89th-minute equaliser, as Åtvidaberg secured a 3-3 draw at Pa Dibba’s GIF Sundsvall in the Swedish Allsvenskan.
The third-placed visitors looked to be heading towards defeat as goals from Fredrik Holster and Simon Helg had Sundsvall two goals up after just seven minutes. Magnus Eriksson pulled one back in the 37th minute, though, and Prodell equalised one minute before the break.
Substitute Johan Eklund made it 3-2 for the hosts with just five minutes remaining, but again they could not hold on as Prodell levelled yet again. The draw leaves Dibba’s Sundsvall at ninth on the Allsvenskan table with 17 points.
At the Södertälje Fotbollsarena, Omar Jawo was sent off in Syrianska’s 1-1 draw at home with Kebba Ceesay’s Djurgården. George Mourad put Syrianska ahead in the 32nd minute, but James Keene equalised six minutes into the second half.
Gambia international Omar Jawo was sent off in the 57th minute, only nine minutes after coming on, and Haris Skenderović also saw red in the 76th minute, however, Jawo’s Syrianska manage to hang on for a point. The draw leaves them at 11th on the standings with 17 points while Ceesay’s Djurgården are also on 17 but with a better goal margin.
Leaders Elfsborg IF of Omar’s brother, Amadou Jawo, were held to their first draw of the Allsvenskan campaign as they were held goalless at home against Mjällby at the Borås Arena.
The result sees them move six points clear at the top of the table, but that advantage will be cut in half should Malmo win their game in hand at Orebro tomorrow.
Finally at the Norrköpings Idrottspark, Modou Barrow’s Norrköping climbed up to fourth with a 2-1 victory over Kalmar. Abiola Dauda put the visitors ahead in the first half, but a second-half double from Heidar Thorvaldsson turned things around. Barrow only made it to the subs bench. With the win, they are now with 23 points.
It has been a week of contrasting fortunes for Gambians plying their trade in the top tier of Swedish football, Allsvenskan, as only one of them enjoyed a win with his team.
Viktor Prodell scored twice, including an 89th-minute equaliser, as Åtvidaberg secured a 3-3 draw at Pa Dibba’s GIF Sundsvall in the Swedish Allsvenskan.
The third-placed visitors looked to be heading towards defeat as goals from Fredrik Holster and Simon Helg had Sundsvall two goals up after just seven minutes. Magnus Eriksson pulled one back in the 37th minute, though, and Prodell equalised one minute before the break.
Substitute Johan Eklund made it 3-2 for the hosts with just five minutes remaining, but again they could not hold on as Prodell levelled yet again. The draw leaves Dibba’s Sundsvall at ninth on the Allsvenskan table with 17 points.
At the Södertälje Fotbollsarena, Omar Jawo was sent off in Syrianska’s 1-1 draw at home with Kebba Ceesay’s Djurgården. George Mourad put Syrianska ahead in the 32nd minute, but James Keene equalised six minutes into the second half.
Gambia international Omar Jawo was sent off in the 57th minute, only nine minutes after coming on, and Haris Skenderović also saw red in the 76th minute, however, Jawo’s Syrianska manage to hang on for a point. The draw leaves them at 11th on the standings with 17 points while Ceesay’s Djurgården are also on 17 but with a better goal margin.
Leaders Elfsborg IF of Omar’s brother, Amadou Jawo, were held to their first draw of the Allsvenskan campaign as they were held goalless at home against Mjällby at the Borås Arena.
The result sees them move six points clear at the top of the table, but that advantage will be cut in half should Malmo win their game in hand at Orebro tomorrow.
Finally at the Norrköpings Idrottspark, Modou Barrow’s Norrköping climbed up to fourth with a 2-1 victory over Kalmar. Abiola Dauda put the visitors ahead in the first half, but a second-half double from Heidar Thorvaldsson turned things around. Barrow only made it to the subs bench. With the win, they are now with 23 points.
Koroma’s Rovers off to a positive start in preseason
OJ and his Rovers off to a winning start
July 11th 2012
Omar Koroma and his Forest Green Rovers kicked off their pre-season campaign in positive style with a solid victory over local outfit Brimscombe & Thrupp.
Reece Styche’s early penalty and a second-half strike by Matty Taylor were all that separated the Blue Square Bet Premier professionals from diligent Hellenic League opponents. Hockaday would have been quietly satisfied to see two of the old guard get their names on the scoresheet, given the amount of attention on his high-profile summer recruits.
Rovers lined up in their usual fluid 4-3-3 formation, with latest arrival Paul Green in central defence alongside Jamie Turley and fellow new signings Omar Koroma, Magno Vieira and Ben Wright further forward.
Brimscombe managed the first shot in anger inside five minutes, James Tubb firing wide from 20 yards after a corner had not been cleared. The key moment of the first half came a minute later, as Styche raced onto goalkeeper Matt Bulman’s booming clearance and was clumsily challenged by the retreating David Woodfield. Referee Lewis Price immediately pointed to the spot, and Styche clinically fired past Adam Thomas to open the scoring.
Most of the healthy crowd now expected the floodgates to open, but it was the hosts who should have levelled in the 14th minute when Lee Pritchard worked space for a low cross and captain Mish Green contrived to put his shot over from five yards. Rovers were guilty of over complication at times, typified when Vieira tried to chip Thomas from inside the area.
The Brazilian looked sharp and eager to impress, but he was guilty of another horrible miss from close range before Koroma saw an effort cleared off the line by Ben Snook. OJ Koroma had started the game in midfield before swapping places with Vieira on the right of the front three, and both men looked a class apart when afforded space to roam.
The burly Wright also produced some deft touches, teeing up Koroma for a curling effort that narrowly missed the top right-hand corner. Styche’s clever flick created another opening before the break, and this time Vieira mustered an attempt that stung the hands of Thomas at the near post.
Taylor saw a typical poacher’s goal disallowed for offside, and moments later Eddie Oshodi dug out a cross from the left which was nodded over by Marsh under pressure. Rovers allowed their third-choice keeper Rob Brown to play 45 minutes for Brimscombe, and he twice produced low stops from James Norwood before grabbing a Taylor header at the second attempt.
Brown was beaten on 70 minutes when Asafu-Adjaye’s cross was inadvertently headed goalwards by Lilywhites defender Will Haderall, only for the crossbar to come to his rescue. Rovers finally doubled their advantage three minutes later, Marsh cutting the ball back from an acute angle for Taylor to ram home in emphatic fashion.
Taylor was foiled by Brown in the closing stages, and Brimscombe were spared an unfairly emphatic scoreline when Yan Klukowski's goal was chalked off by the referee's assistant. Koroma was later voted as the game’s star man.
Omar Koroma and his Forest Green Rovers kicked off their pre-season campaign in positive style with a solid victory over local outfit Brimscombe & Thrupp.
Reece Styche’s early penalty and a second-half strike by Matty Taylor were all that separated the Blue Square Bet Premier professionals from diligent Hellenic League opponents. Hockaday would have been quietly satisfied to see two of the old guard get their names on the scoresheet, given the amount of attention on his high-profile summer recruits.
Rovers lined up in their usual fluid 4-3-3 formation, with latest arrival Paul Green in central defence alongside Jamie Turley and fellow new signings Omar Koroma, Magno Vieira and Ben Wright further forward.
Brimscombe managed the first shot in anger inside five minutes, James Tubb firing wide from 20 yards after a corner had not been cleared. The key moment of the first half came a minute later, as Styche raced onto goalkeeper Matt Bulman’s booming clearance and was clumsily challenged by the retreating David Woodfield. Referee Lewis Price immediately pointed to the spot, and Styche clinically fired past Adam Thomas to open the scoring.
Most of the healthy crowd now expected the floodgates to open, but it was the hosts who should have levelled in the 14th minute when Lee Pritchard worked space for a low cross and captain Mish Green contrived to put his shot over from five yards. Rovers were guilty of over complication at times, typified when Vieira tried to chip Thomas from inside the area.
The Brazilian looked sharp and eager to impress, but he was guilty of another horrible miss from close range before Koroma saw an effort cleared off the line by Ben Snook. OJ Koroma had started the game in midfield before swapping places with Vieira on the right of the front three, and both men looked a class apart when afforded space to roam.
The burly Wright also produced some deft touches, teeing up Koroma for a curling effort that narrowly missed the top right-hand corner. Styche’s clever flick created another opening before the break, and this time Vieira mustered an attempt that stung the hands of Thomas at the near post.
Taylor saw a typical poacher’s goal disallowed for offside, and moments later Eddie Oshodi dug out a cross from the left which was nodded over by Marsh under pressure. Rovers allowed their third-choice keeper Rob Brown to play 45 minutes for Brimscombe, and he twice produced low stops from James Norwood before grabbing a Taylor header at the second attempt.
Brown was beaten on 70 minutes when Asafu-Adjaye’s cross was inadvertently headed goalwards by Lilywhites defender Will Haderall, only for the crossbar to come to his rescue. Rovers finally doubled their advantage three minutes later, Marsh cutting the ball back from an acute angle for Taylor to ram home in emphatic fashion.
Taylor was foiled by Brown in the closing stages, and Brimscombe were spared an unfairly emphatic scoreline when Yan Klukowski's goal was chalked off by the referee's assistant. Koroma was later voted as the game’s star man.
Baresi’s Battery drops third straight in loss to Eagles
Baresi's Battery lost third consecutive match
July 11th 2012
Amadou Baresi Sanyang watched from the bench as his Charleston Battery lost a third straight game with a 1-0 loss to the Charlotte Eagles at Charlotte Christian Stadium.
Eagles forward Darryl Roberts scored the lone goal in the 36th minute to lift Charlotte (6-8-2) to victory as the Battery (10-6-0) slipped down into third position in the USL PRO standings. The first chance of the game fell to the Battery in only the second minute.
Charlotte failed to clear a long ball and Charleston midfielder Nick Paterson was the first to react to the loose ball. Paterson struck the ball well from twenty yards out but his shot curled wide of the post.
Playing as a lone striker Dane Kelly had a couple of good chances in succession. In the 12th minute Kelly found some space but his spinning shot skipped wide of the goal. Then in the 29th minute Kelly was able to break clear of defender Josh Rife but saw his drilled strike well saved by the Eagles goalkeeper Eric Reed.
Charlotte broke the deadlock in the 36th minute after right-midfielder Cheyne Roberts muscled his way past JC Mack. Robert crossed the ball into the middle and forward Darryl Roberts tucked away the chance with a superb curling volley.
The Battery fought back and Kelly almost leveled just before the break with a twisting run that allowed him to pull the ball back onto his left foot just outside the box. Kelly shaped a shot at the goal but the ball just dipped over the cross-bar.
Charleston pressed forward after the break looking for an equalizer but rode their luck defensively as the game began to open up. Twice Charleston goalkeeper Kevin Klasila had the post to thank as Charlotte came close to doubling its lead striking the ball against the woodwork on two occasions.
Baresi and his Battery face Wilmington Hammerheads next. Meanwhile at the Titan Stadium, Ebrima “EJ” Jatta also missed his teams 4-0 defeat at the hands of league leaders Orlando City. EJ and his Los Angeles Blues face the Antigua Barracuda’s next.
Amadou Baresi Sanyang watched from the bench as his Charleston Battery lost a third straight game with a 1-0 loss to the Charlotte Eagles at Charlotte Christian Stadium.
Eagles forward Darryl Roberts scored the lone goal in the 36th minute to lift Charlotte (6-8-2) to victory as the Battery (10-6-0) slipped down into third position in the USL PRO standings. The first chance of the game fell to the Battery in only the second minute.
Charlotte failed to clear a long ball and Charleston midfielder Nick Paterson was the first to react to the loose ball. Paterson struck the ball well from twenty yards out but his shot curled wide of the post.
Playing as a lone striker Dane Kelly had a couple of good chances in succession. In the 12th minute Kelly found some space but his spinning shot skipped wide of the goal. Then in the 29th minute Kelly was able to break clear of defender Josh Rife but saw his drilled strike well saved by the Eagles goalkeeper Eric Reed.
Charlotte broke the deadlock in the 36th minute after right-midfielder Cheyne Roberts muscled his way past JC Mack. Robert crossed the ball into the middle and forward Darryl Roberts tucked away the chance with a superb curling volley.
The Battery fought back and Kelly almost leveled just before the break with a twisting run that allowed him to pull the ball back onto his left foot just outside the box. Kelly shaped a shot at the goal but the ball just dipped over the cross-bar.
Charleston pressed forward after the break looking for an equalizer but rode their luck defensively as the game began to open up. Twice Charleston goalkeeper Kevin Klasila had the post to thank as Charlotte came close to doubling its lead striking the ball against the woodwork on two occasions.
Baresi and his Battery face Wilmington Hammerheads next. Meanwhile at the Titan Stadium, Ebrima “EJ” Jatta also missed his teams 4-0 defeat at the hands of league leaders Orlando City. EJ and his Los Angeles Blues face the Antigua Barracuda’s next.
Gambia down 20 places on FIFA rankings
Scorpions fall in rankings
July 4th 2012
Gambia have dropped twenty places on the monthly FIFA world ranking table with the changes influenced greatly by both the UEFA EURO 2012 and Oceania Football Confederation [OFC] Nations Cup.
The Scorpions of The Gambia are now placed 128th in the world and 40 in Africa as the July edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking showed major changes. Gambia’s point accumulation which stood at 320 in the past month has also dropped to 251 points.
In the period under review, the Scorpions played three international competitive games, losing two and drawing one. The Scorpions played out a 1-1 draw against Morocco at the Independence Stadium in Bakau on June 2nd, lost 2-1 to Tanzania at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium on June 10th and then a 4-1 defeat to Algeria at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker on June 15th which eliminated them from the 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
European champions, Spain maintained their top position with Germany moving second while Uruguay dropped to third. The surge in points for European teams pushed Brazil down six place to No.11 and its worst position since the rankings began in 1993. The 2014 World Cup host is hurt by not playing any competitive matches recently.
A total of 133 international matches have been played in recent weeks, made up of 31 EURO 2012 matches, 60 qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, 15 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and 27 friendlies.
All of these contests have clearly reshuffled the global ladder, with only 22 of the 208 ranked teams holding their position from the previous month, while 85 teams have moved up the table and 101 have dropped at least one place.
The next ranking will be released on August 8th.
Gambia have dropped twenty places on the monthly FIFA world ranking table with the changes influenced greatly by both the UEFA EURO 2012 and Oceania Football Confederation [OFC] Nations Cup.
The Scorpions of The Gambia are now placed 128th in the world and 40 in Africa as the July edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking showed major changes. Gambia’s point accumulation which stood at 320 in the past month has also dropped to 251 points.
In the period under review, the Scorpions played three international competitive games, losing two and drawing one. The Scorpions played out a 1-1 draw against Morocco at the Independence Stadium in Bakau on June 2nd, lost 2-1 to Tanzania at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium on June 10th and then a 4-1 defeat to Algeria at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker on June 15th which eliminated them from the 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifiers.
European champions, Spain maintained their top position with Germany moving second while Uruguay dropped to third. The surge in points for European teams pushed Brazil down six place to No.11 and its worst position since the rankings began in 1993. The 2014 World Cup host is hurt by not playing any competitive matches recently.
A total of 133 international matches have been played in recent weeks, made up of 31 EURO 2012 matches, 60 qualifiers for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, 15 CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, and 27 friendlies.
All of these contests have clearly reshuffled the global ladder, with only 22 of the 208 ranked teams holding their position from the previous month, while 85 teams have moved up the table and 101 have dropped at least one place.
The next ranking will be released on August 8th.
Senegal seeks to co-host AFCON 2019 with Gambia
Senegal plans co-host with Gambia
July 4th 2012
The Senegalese football authorities are setting their sights on a possible co-hosting of the 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Gambia, a nation that has never hosted the continental championship.
The competition was last held in Senegal in 1999, and authorities in Senegal say they are wrapping up plans to present a bid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Senegal is yet to officially submit an application.
However, Sports Minister El Hadj Malick Gackou told reporters in Senegal on Tuesday that he would soon forward their papers to the Confederation of African Football [CAF].
“Senegal is planning to host the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and one of the cities of the country we will be developing for the event is Zinguinchor. It will be among the cities to host a group during the competition,” Gackou said.
Zinguinchor is Senegal’s second largest city after capital Dakar and the chief town of the Casamance area, where a separatist movement has been fighting for independence or autonomy of the region since 1982. Zinguinchor was also one of the host cities during Senegal 1992.
The Senegalese football authorities are setting their sights on a possible co-hosting of the 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Gambia, a nation that has never hosted the continental championship.
The competition was last held in Senegal in 1999, and authorities in Senegal say they are wrapping up plans to present a bid to the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Senegal is yet to officially submit an application.
However, Sports Minister El Hadj Malick Gackou told reporters in Senegal on Tuesday that he would soon forward their papers to the Confederation of African Football [CAF].
“Senegal is planning to host the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and one of the cities of the country we will be developing for the event is Zinguinchor. It will be among the cities to host a group during the competition,” Gackou said.
Zinguinchor is Senegal’s second largest city after capital Dakar and the chief town of the Casamance area, where a separatist movement has been fighting for independence or autonomy of the region since 1982. Zinguinchor was also one of the host cities during Senegal 1992.
Battery Sign Sanyang From Sounders
Baresi joins Battery
April 13th 2012 United Soccer Leagues [USL] Professional Division [third tier] side Charleston Battery has signed Gambian midfielder Amadou “Baresi” Sanyang, Gam Sports Online can exclusively reveal.
Originally signed at age 17 by Major League Soccer’s Toronto FC, Baresi Sanyang comes to the Battery after spending the 2011 season with MLS’ Seattle Sounders. Sanyang made his debut for Toronto on his 18th birthday and played in 21 MLS regular season games over three seasons with Toronto and Seattle.
A native of Bakau, The Gambia, Sanyang, 6-0, 165 lbs., 20 yrs., began his professional career in 2007 with Gambian first division club Real de Banjul. He helped lead the City Boys to the Gambian first division championship and was named the league’s top midfielder that year. He has also represented Gambia internationally at the U-17 and U-20 levels.
“Sanyang came to us via Seattle and we are very pleased to have him as he has a tremendous upside in the central midfield. He is coded as a defensive midfielder but we will also look for him to come forward and score a few goals on free kicks and the run of play” said Mike Anhaeuser, the Battery’s Head Coach.
His play with the Gambian Under-20 National Team sparked interest among Major League Soccer clubs and in early 2009 he was signed by Toronto FC along with fellow countrymen Emmanuel Gomez [who now plays for Samger FC].
Due to his age he was initially ineligible to join the senior squad until his 18th birthday, which took place on August 1, 2009; during this time he trained with both the senior team and the TFC Academy. Sanyang made his debut for Toronto FC on August 1, 2009 as a sub vs. Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Mansally’s New England Revolution.
In September 2009, two French Ligue 1 clubs sent scouts to Toronto to watch him in action. Dutch club PSV Eindhoven also requested video footage. He made 14 appearances in his second year with Toronto and first full season, he was plagued with a concussion that prevented him making any appearances in the second half of the season.
On July 30, 2011, Sanyang signed with Seattle Sounders FC until of recent when he joined the Battery.
Carayol concern for Pirates
Bristol Rovers sweating on the fitness of Carayol
April 13th 2012 English side Bristol Rovers are sweating over the fitness of Gambian Mustapha Carayol ahead of their League Two clash with Burton Albion.
Winger Carayol has been suffering with a hamstring problem of late, missing the 3-0 defeat at Crewe on Easter Monday, and he will be assessed ahead of kick-off at the Memorial Stadium.
Otherwise, Rovers manager Mark McGhee has no new injury or suspensions worries for the game. Jim Paterson also missed the loss at Crewe after he was substituted during the 2-2 draw against Gillingham with breathing difficulties - but the defender is expected to return to the matchday squad this weekend.
Centre-back Adam Virgo is the only long-term absentee for Rovers with a knee ligament problem that is likely to keep the former Brighton man out until the end of the season.
Bristol Rovers have yet to lose at the Memorial Stadium since McGhee took charge in January – a record the manager is keen to extend and hopes that Carayol will have recovered from the hamstring problem which kept him out of the defeat at Gresty Road.
“I thought Muzzy [Carayol] was a big miss on Monday and we are hoping he will be fit. He is an important player for us and gives us that initiative to get forward a bit better,” said McGhee.
Sise’s Nordsjælland held while Mal’s Kalju continues fine run
April 13th 2012
Joe Sise FC Nordsjælland’s title bid suffered a significant blow following a 1-1 draw at FC Midtjylland at the MCH Arena.
After a tightly-fought scoreless first hour of play in which Midtjylland looked the more dangerous of the two, they gave themselves the advantage they so desperately needed, as Sylvester Igboun worked his way in from the right and teed the ball up for Jakob Poulsen for a rocket that flew just inside the upper left corner.
The game looked for an important win for the hosts in their quest to overtake the Wild Tigers for Champions League qualification; however Nordsjælland found a late equalizer to protect their lead in the standings.
Patrick Mtiliga stole the ball in the defensive end of the field to start a counter-attack, then 70 yards upfield ran onto a through ball from Tobias Mikkelsen, and hit a perfect cross to the far side of goal which Rawez Lawan headed in just grazing the upright for the equalizer.
The point maintains the Wild Tigers’ seven-point gap ahead of the Wolves [Midtjylland] although now leaves them with just a four-point advantage over third-place Horsens in the race for Denmark’s second Champions League spot with eight games remaining.
They next host fifth-place Silkeborg on Sunday.
Meanwhile, in Estonia, Yankuba “Mal” Ceesay’s Kalju stay top of the Meistriliiga table with their fifth win from their first six matches, a routine 2-0 win at Sillamäe Kalev. The goals came from 21-year-old Italian midfielder Damiano Quinteri, his third of the season already, and Oliver Konsa.
Mal’s Kalju hosts FC Flora Talinn next.
Whitecaps terminates Toubabo Jarju's contract
Toubabo leaves Whitecaps
January 22nd 2012 The Vancouver Whitecaps’ has announced that its experiment of Africa’s first MLS designated player is over after it terminated the contract of Gambian Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju.
The club bought out the “disappointing” Gambian striker’s $470,000-a-year contract Friday in a move that seemed inevitable as new head coach Martin Rennie puts his stamp on a team that finished last in Major League Soccer last season.
Toubabo Jarju lit it up in the Belgian second division with RAEC Mons helping them to gain promotion into the Belgian topflight of football and was touted as a natural goal scorer when he joined the Caps last summer as the first African designated player in the Major League Soccer.
But the 25-year-old Gambian international fizzled in MLS, posting no goals or assists in 10 appearances and often failing to make the starting lineup near the end of the season. Club officials recently stated they expected Toubabo Jarju to rejoin the team when pre-season training begins next week, but they clearly had a change of heart as other attacking players were brought on board.
The move frees up a designated player spot for Vancouver, and the $335,000 of Jarju’s $470,000 salary that would have counted against the cap. MLS teams are allowed three designated players. French forward Eric Hassli is now Vancouver’s lone DP.
The move also brings the Whitecaps down to 10 international players, which, combined with Friday’s trade of cash to Colorado for a 2014 draft pick and international roster spot, makes the -Caps compliant.
“We would like to thank Mustapha for his contribution during his time at the club. We wish Mustapha [Jarju] the very best in his future endeavors,” said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi in a statement released on the club’s official website.
With Jarju’s expulsion from the Whitecaps in the MLS, it now reduces Gambia’s export to the MLS to five and they are Sanna Nyassi [Montreal Impact], Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie “Kenny” Mansally [New England Revolution], Mamadou “Futty” Danso [Portland Timbers] and Amadou “Baresi” Sanyang [Seattle Sounders].
Joe Sise denies Mjällby interest
Sise denies interest talks
January 4th 2012 Gambian forward Joe Sise has denied reports linking him to Swedish Allsvenskan side Mjällby AIF who earlier linked the striker with a move to the club.
Joe Sise has been a free agent since the end of the Swedish league and has been linked to moves with different clubs around Europe and in Sweden but the 22-year-old has since been mute over transfers after his unsuccessful trial with Scottish side Rangers FC.
“I’ve never been in contact with Mjällby, so I do not know where the information comes in from,” Sise told Swedish paper Kristianstadsbladet in a short reaction to those claims. He added, “there is still nothing current with this and there is nothing behind all this, they’re just baseless.”
Sise has since been a victim of agent fraud and following the end of the 2011 season when he announced that he would not sign a new contract with Halmstads BK and follow the club in its relegation to Superettan [second tier].
Following the end of his contract, he was made subject to speculation of where he would play next, in mid-October, a person named Can Arikboga, claimed to be Joe Sise’s agent and told German newspaper Bild that the player was soon going to sign for Hansa Rostock in 2. Fußball-Bundesliga [second tier of German football], however 2 days after the rumor arose, Sise told Hallandsposten which is a local newspaper in Sweden that Can Arikboga was not his agent and that he had no idea of who Arikboga was, stating that has been a victim of an agent fraud.
Swiss dock more points from Dampha’s Neuchâtel
Dampha's Xamax lose four points
January 4th 2012 The Swiss Football Association has yesterday decided to deduct another four points from 19-year-old Gambian midfielder Abdourahman Dampha’s Neuchâtel Xamax for failing to prove that it had paid its players.
This is the second time such a penalty has been imposed on the club, which is owned by Chechen businessman Bulat Chagaev. In December it was docked four points for violating the terms of its license.
The Swiss football association said in a statement late on Tuesday that Neuchâtel Xamax had failed to provide proof that it had paid players’ salaries and social insurance for the month of October. Xamax can appeal the decision, as it is already doing with the previous sanction.
There has also been talk of revoking the club’s license for serious violations of its obligations. This would mean it would drop out of the Swiss Super League [top tier] when matches start again in February. Xamax is currently fourth in the League but with this latest docking, it means the club will now lie sixth in the ten-team table with 26 points.
Chagaev is at the centre of Swiss criminal investigations into suspected fraud regarding bank documents. The players have not been paid for November of December either. The most prominent regional newspaper of the Canton of Geneva, the Tribune de Genève newspaper reported on Wednesday that as a result they [the players] were unwilling to start training again.
On November 2, the disciplinary body of the FA had imposed a fine of 20,000 Swiss francs [16,400 Euros] for failing to provide “information and financial documents” following the takeover of Xamax by Chagaev in May.
Swiss prosecutors charged the businessman with forgery on November 24 after media reports he allegedly submitted a falsified bank document to prove his solvency during a bankruptcy trial. The 51-year-old Chechen bought Xamax in May for an estimated 1.2 million Swiss francs [One million Euros].
Several internet sites in French-speaking Switzerland reported on Wednesday that Xamax captain, Stéphane Besle, and striker Javier Arizmendi - the team’s second highest goal-scorer - had been sacked, and that Haris Seferović [who is on loan from ACF Fiorentina] had been returned to Italy.
Jagne drops Dalkurd interest
Jagne not interested in Dalkurd's interest
December 25th 2011 19-year-old and Gambia U-20 hopeful Omar Jagne has dropped the interest Swedish Division 1 [third tier] side Dalkurd FF had in him by saying the contract offered to him doesn’t favor him and he is not interested.
Omar Jagne hopes to take after his big brother and Scorpion goal-poacher Njogu Demba who has fared for Gambia at national level and is yet to put his foot off the pedal at club competition. He caught the eyes of Dalkurd when he scored a hat-trick against them in a friendly while on trial at Brage.
“They want me in their team they want me to sign a contract. They offered me a contract but it was not a good contract. They said they would return with a better offer, but I have not heard anything more from them but to tell you the truth, I’m not interested in their contract because I have bigger ambitions,” Jagne said in a short statement to Gambia Sports Online.
The Swedish division 1 side meanwhile are not planning to raise their offer and for them, it’s either Jagne takes it or leaves it. “We have offered him [Jagne] a contract since last month [November] and he did not put any effort into it. First he said yes he is interested, but now he said he wants us to raise our bid but that is where we leave it. It’s either he takes it or he leaves it,” Dalkurd’s director Elvan Cicen said.
Jagne has played 23 games last season for Falu FK and has scored seven goals and had a couple of assists but it has not been any off season chilling for Jagne who had undergone a brief trial with Superetan club IK Brage in a hope to pen a deal following an impressive outing with Division 2 [fourth tier] side Falu FK where he was deployed as a striker but according to Jagne, Brage have not contacted him yet about any contract or so as they have been silent over his issue but for him, life moves on.
Jagne’s agent, Kirco Blazevski however, hopes that the young lad will sign for a foreign club because he wants to join a club with big ambitions. “Brage has shown interest in him, Dalkurd want him and has offered him a contract while Falu wants to keep him but he wants to get into a club with big ambitions. He is talented and is a rough diamond, which flourished last year,” Blazevski said.
He further revealed about a possible club who are interested in his client. He said, “I have personally been in contact with clubs in Denmark and Italy. In Italy, a Serie B [second tier] side Torino FC is a possibility. They have shown interest in him and may invite him for a week’s training with them but it remains to be seen.”
Dampha’s goal steals point for Xamax
Rahu rescues Xamax
December 13th 2011 Switzerland’s Super League leaders FC Basel were brought back down to earth after their midweek heroics, being forced to settle for a 1-1 draw at Gambia international Abdourahman Dampha’s Neuchatel Xamax with Dampha leveling the scores.
Having knocked the defending champions of the English Premier league Manchester United out of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, a return to domestic action looked to be ending in success when Marco Streller gave Basel the lead with 13 minutes gone.
Having already been reduced to ten men by Stephane Besle’s 53rd-minute sending-off, Xamax looked to be out of the contest but, with ten minutes left, they equalised through super sub Abdourahman Dampha.
The former Gambia Ports Authority and Mouloudia Club Saïda starlet climbed off the bench and needed only four minutes to stamp his authority in the game with the equalizer for Xamax on Sunday evening to go into the break collecting 26 points and standing 5th in the 10-team table.
Elsewhere in the Belgian top tier, strikes from Carlos Wilson Cachicote da Rocha alias Rudy and Oleg Iachtchouk handed Cercle Brugge KSV a 2-0 win away to Gambia international Ibou Sawaneh’s RAEC Mons.
Sawaneh saw only 68 minutes of play as he was later replaced by 31-year-old French midfielder Benjamin Nicaise. The defeat leaves Sawaneh’s Mons standing 9th in the league with 23 points and up next for them, is a trip to Waregem to play against SV Zulte-Waregem.
Swedish Allsvenskan side Norrköping signs Gambian youngster Modou Barrow
Modou Barrow happy with Norrköping deal.
November 29th 2011 As the hunt for young Gambian players in the diaspora continues, another young and promising Gambian starlet has been discovered by Gambia Sports Online in the like of 19-year-old youngster Modou Barrow who signed a two-year contract with Swedish Allsvenskan [top tier] side IFK Norrköping.
Born to Gambian parents on 13 October 1992, Modou Barrow grew up to be a star in the making as he started his football career back in the days in Gambia with a non-league side alongside Omar “Waterman” Jasseh before travelling to Sweden. He had a brief spell with current Superettan side Östers IF before moving to Division 4 [sixth tier] side Mjölby Södra IF.
The Gambian attacking midfielder is known for his goal-scoring capabilities as he lead the Division 4 side to promotion by banging the goals from different angles for Mjölby which lead Norrköping to come calling for him.
Before moving to Norrköping, Modou was suppose to join promoted Allsvenskan side Åtvidabergs FF but both parties couldn’t agree on the contractual terms which lead to the deal not been brokered.
“Modou Barrow has signed a two-year contract with IFK Norrköping with an option to extend. He is signed from Mjölby Södra IF where he was a major contributor to the club and helped them win the division 4 league which lead to their promotion to division 3,” Norrköping’s assistant coach Stefan Hellberg said in a statement.
“He played a number of games with our U-21 team and had been training once a week with our first team. His main qualities are, he is speedy, combined with him having a really good first touch of the ball and can threaten the opposition defence.”
“He plays as a winger or forward and definitely, Modou is a future talent and he has the skills and qualities to be a top player. It will be interesting to see how we develop the talent he possesses and together we can develop that and make him a very strong player”, Hellberg added.
The 19-year-old couldn’t hide his emotions after joining Norrköping and was very blissful for joining the Allsvenskan side. He told Gambia Sports Online in an interview, “I’m very happy to join Norrköping which is a great team in Sweden. All my focus has been on them and the feeling is just great.”
“I am very happy to be having such an opportunity which many dream of and I want to thank my father as he has been the brain behind my successful career.” “I know Norrköping is a tough team with a lot of players in my position but, I will make sure I make good use of the opportunity once I am on the pitch to make my mark and nail a place,” the confident youngster avouched.
He now joins his Gambian counter-parts Kebba Ceesay, Omar Jawo, Pa Dibba Amadou Jawo and possibly Aziz Corr Nyang in the Swedish top flight.
About IFK Norrköping
IFK Norrköping is a Swedish football club based in Norrköping. The club, formed on 29 May 1897, is currently playing in the top division of Swedish football, Allsvenskan and are currently coached by Jan Andersson. The most successful period of the club was in the 1940s under the Hungarian coach Lajos Czeizler (1942–1948), with the players Gunnar Nordahl and Nils Liedholm.
Norrköping dominated Swedish football in the post war era and won the first division 11 times in 20 glorious years culminating in the league triumph of 1963. It took the club another 26 years before adding championship title number 12 to the trophy cabinet. They’ve also made their mark in European competitions.
Norrköping had a fierce rivalry with the other local club, IK Sleipner, something that has been forgotten since Sleipner’s fall from the higher divisions. The main rivals today is mainly fellow Östergötland club Åtvidabergs FF and geographically close Örebro SK.
The club is affiliated to the Östergötlands Fotbollförbund which is one of the 24 district organizations of the Swedish Football Association. It administers lower tier football in the Östergötland County.
Gambia drops seven places in latest FIFA rankings
Gambia drops to 118th in new FIFA rankings.
November 23rd 2011 The Gambia have slipped down seven places to number 118 in the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola World Rankings released on Wednesday.
Gambia’s best ranking this year was 102 in July, but they have been on a downslide since then, and it did not help that they have lost two matches, won two and drawn one in the last five as it has seen Paul Put sacked and the side slowly slide down the table and out of the top 100.
The Scorpions have also not managed to maintain their twenty-eighth position in the African rankings as it slipped down to 29 in the African rankings.
And with the Scorpions grouped in Group C in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers alongside Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Morocco, Tanzania, the country is yet to play any competitive or friendly game as the qualifiers are just around the corner and no head coach has been attached to the team yet as Paul Put was sacked last month.
The Scorpions will have to meet a Côte d’Ivoire side who were present at Germany 2006 and South Africa 2010 whilst they will also face Morocco who are four-time finalists and the first African side to win a World Cup match in Group C of qualifying Round Two.
Notwithstanding also, the 2013 African cup of nations qualifier is just around the corner as the Scorpions of The Gambia will start their campaign against The Desert Warriors of Algeria in the second round of the 2013 Orange Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers schedule to take place in South Africa.
The competition will set off in the first half of 2012 but after the Africa Nations Cup in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January. Algeria is ranked 5th in Africa and 36th in the world.
Meanwhile, there was just one change in the top five in the African rankings, with Ghana and Algeria moving above Egypt, who slip from second to fourth. The Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire [Ivory Coast] are still the top side on the continent, followed by Ghana, Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, South Africa, Cape Verde Islands and Tunisia round out the top 10.
Spain continues to lead the global rankings, despite their recent friendly loss to England. They are followed by Netherlands, Germany, Uruguay, England, Brazil, Portugal, Croatia, Italy and Argentina to make up the top 10.
The next release for the FIFA/Coca Cola rankings will be on 21st December.
Esbjerg fB in talks with Njogu for contract extension
Njogu offered contract extension
November 18th 2011 Gambia international striker Njogu Demba had lived up to expectation since arriving at Danish 1st division side [second tier] Esbjerg fB and the team is in talks with the striker over a possibility of extending his current deal which is set to expire at the end of the season.
Esbjerg wants to extend Njogu’s contract in order to drive away interest from other clubs although contraction extension talks comes a bit too early after signing the striker two months ago to a year deal with an option to extend.
Njogu has managed to nail a place in Esbjerg’s starting line-up since arriving although he had lacked match fitness in the first stages of his arrival. He has had trials with several clubs since been released by English League One side Notts County FC.
He had had trials with Gillingham FC and English Championship side Birmingham City FC where he scored the winning-goal against Tottenham Hotspurs in a reserve league game which sparked reports that English Premier League side Norwich City are interested in the 32-year-old’s signature but after a month, nothing solid came of the speculations.
He has however lived up to expectations after a strong start with Esbjerg which has now prompted the club’s sporting director to open contract talks with the player’s agent over an extension of the deal.
“We started to talk to him”, said the Esbjerg sporting director, Soren Poulsen, adding that, “there is no doubt that he is here at last and that he has fully lived up to the expectations we had for him before he came. So it looks pretty reasonable.”
Since arriving at the club, the 32-year-old has scored a single goal for the team and Njogu himself has previously disclosed that he is keen to end his career in Esbjerg.
Gambia hopeful Kandji’s Ultimate Sacrifice
Kandji's ultimate sacrifice
November 18th 2011 Gambia hopeful Macoumba Kandji has been chosen as the 5th player in the top 50 MLS Cup moments as October 1st, marked 50 days until the final of the MLS Cup 2011, which will take place on November 20, at the Home Depot Center in Carson, California between LA Galaxy and Houston Dynamo and in the build up to the big day, the Major League Soccer is counting down the Top 50 moments in MLS Cup history.
Twenty-six year old Macoumba Kandji knew his leg was going to get crushed but it was extra time of MLS Cup 2010. Self-preservation was not the first thought running through the mind of the Colorado attacker as he lunged to beat FC Dallas defender Ugo Ihemelu to a ball in the box.
“The reason why you bring a guy like Mac [Kandji] on is because you know he is going to create a goal,” says Rapids midfield leader Jeff Larentowicz. “His job when he came on was to take players on.” Kandji’s move paid off.
The ball caromed off FC Dallas’ George John and past goalkeeper Kevin Hartman for the eventual game-winner. And while his teammates mobbed him in celebration Kandji struggled to get up. Dallas players protested, believing he was feigning injury but little did anyone know he tore his left ACL [Anterior Cruciate Ligament].
“At first I thought I broke my leg,” Kandji said after the match. “I thought I will see my bone popping out. Thank God it’s not that.” The injury forced Kandji out of the match, only nine minutes after coming on for another injured Rapids forward, Omar Cummings. He would join his teammates for the trophy celebration on crutches.
“If you look at the replay, his leg bows and it almost breaks,” Rapids goalkeeper Matt Pickens said at the time. “I thought he broke his leg.”“I had to look away,” Larentowicz said from the victorious locker room. “I thought he broke his femur. The way he kept falling down, I thought it must be broken or something must be wrong. But we’re all happy he did exactly what he did.”
The injury cost Kandji nine months of action, and he only returned to competitive league action in August. And while Rapids fans will always celebrate Kandji’s heroic feat, FC Dallas players are still seething about the goal, claiming that the play should have been whistled dead after Kandji used his arms to get around Dallas left back Jair Benítez.
“To me, honestly, that was a foul. It shouldn’t have been a goal,” says 2010 MLS MVP David Ferreira. “The Colorado player grabs our player and throws him to the ground. It’s the referee’s mistake. But that’s in the past now, we can’t do anything about it. History says ‘Colorado 2, FC Dallas 1.’”
“It was a really freaky situation,” says FC Dallas manager Schellas Hyndman of Kandji’s game-winning play. “If he did another 100,000 times, it probably wouldn’t happen again.”It may not have been the prettiest of goals – “It’s not something that when Mac was running around the backyard as a kid, he was thinking about scoring a goal like that in the final,” Larentowicz said – and Dallas believe it shouldn’t even have been allowed.
But Macoumba’s Kandji’s sacrifice will remain indelible in MLS Cup lore.
Ous Jallow increases goal tally to sixth
Ous Jallow’s goal tally soars to six
November 18th 2011 Gambian international striker Ousman Jallow helped his Turkish Bank Asya 1. Lig [second tier] side Çaykur Rizespor emerge 2-1 winners over Kartalspor by recording his sixth goal of the season on Sunday.
Ous Jallow has been influential in the Rizespor squad as he has gained Coach Hüseyin Kalpar’s confidence and was worth the trouble Rizespor endured bringing him in the team by recording a goal tally of six in ten games for the promotion-chasing side.
The 23-year-old goal poacher, formerly of Brøndby IF, Raja Casablanca, Al Ain and Wallidan added the second in the 45th minute for Rizespor in the 2-1 victory over mid-table side Kartalspor.
The away side opened the scoring in the 24th minute through defender Engin Aktürk and the Gambian doubled their lead in the 45th minute giving them a 2-0 lead before the break.
The home team went a man down in the 80th minute as Hamza Gezmis was sent off after accumulating a second yellow which prompted referee Tolga Ozkalfa to send him off. The host scored a consolation five minutes later through Sezer Sezgin but it was little too late for them as Rizespor held on to their lead.
The result lifts Ous Jallow’s Rizespor to second in the 18-team table with 20 points and up next for them is a home game against Denizlispor.
Gambian starlet Joe Sise still harbours hopes of joining Rangers in the future
Sise hopes to wear the Rangers jersey one day
November 18th 2011 Twenty-one year old Gambian starlet Joe Sise has revealed he hasn’t given up hope of playing for Rangers one day - despite failing to earn a deal after a trial at Murray Park.
The former Swedish Under-21 hitman trained with the Scottish Premier League champions for a week but boss Ally McCoist decided against signing him. After just one bounce game for Rangers, Sise believes he wasn’t able to show his best form in Glasgow and that’s why he has returned back to Sweden.
But Sise loved his short stint with the Ibrox club and refused to rule out a possible return to Scotland. The 21-year-old told Record Sport: “I only played one game but it was difficult to show my true capabilities. Rangers are a big, high-level club so it wasn’t easy for me but I did my best and was pleased with how it went.”
“I was impressed by the club, the manager and the facilities at Rangers. They’re great people. Everything was very professional, the training ground was fantastic and the players were excellent human beings. I only have good things to say about Rangers. I’ll stay in contact with the club and manager. Hopefully, one day I’ll get the chance to play at Rangers for real - you never know.”
Sise was tipped to win a contract at Rangers, especially after an injury to Steven Naismith ruled the Ibrox star out for the rest of the season. But the former Halmstad BK striker is adamant he treated his time in Glasgow as a chance to get fit and learn from the Murray Park coaching staff.
He said: “I went to Glasgow to train and get fit. I hadn’t played a game or trained properly in two months so it was a good opportunity. When Rangers called, they gave me a chance to go over and it was great experience. I really enjoyed it. I think I did okay, I didn’t play super - but I wasn’t bad either.”
“I felt it went well but I wasn’t expecting to get a contract. I just wanted to leave Sweden and train with Rangers for a few days. I wanted to have a good time and learn as much as possible. I think I did that because it was great to work with McCoist,” he concluded.
Joe Sise closing no doors on interested clubs
Sise looking forward.
November 11th 2011
After spending the whole of last week on trial with Scottish Premier league side, Rangers FC, Gambian striker Joe Sise is back in Sweden to see out the end of his term with relegated Allsvenskan side Halmstad BK after he failed to catch the eyes of manager Ally McCoist for a deal.
He was hoping to put pen to paper with Rangers FC after his contract with Halmstads BK is due to expire at the end of the year but those hopes seem to have evaporated as he will have to either see out the rest of his contract or try to win a deal with another club who will have to pay a compensation fee to Halmstad.
For the young Gambia, he was extremely satisfied with his stay in Scotland and he is quoted as saying to Eurosport, “It was absolutely perfect, I must say. I’m very happy. It worked very well. There were great people and great players. For their decision of not signing me, I understand that and I wish them luck.”
“Now they need an established player who can go straight into the team,” he added.
In mid-October, a person named Can Arikboga, claimed to be the 21-year-old' agent and told German newspaper Bild that the player was soon signing for German 2. Bundesliga [second tier] Hansa Rostock, however 2 days after the rumor arose Sise told the local newspaper in Halmstad, Hallandsposten that Can Arikboga was not his agent and that he had no idea of who Arikboga was, stating that he has been a victim of an agent fraud.
Sise still rubbishes those reports and said, “I know nothing [about ‘that’ deal]. I do not think about it right now, but I’m not closing any doors from other teams.”
“What happened has happened and we have to move on with it,” he concluded.
Paul Put sacked!
Paul Put no more Gambian coach!
November 1st 2011 Belgian coach Paul Put has been sacked as coach of The Gambia senior national team after the nation’s latest 2012 Africa Cup of nations qualifier setback, Gambia Sports Online can confirm.
Put is sacked after failing to meet the terms of his contract which was to qualify The Gambia to the African Cup of Nations or the World Cup.
He took over the Gambian national team in 2008 but his contract was later renewed in 2009 to a four-year contract but he paid the price as he failed to qualify for the tournament, no thanks to a 1-1 draw with the Stallions of Burkina Faso a few weeks ago.
He has only seen two-and-half years to his contract which was due to expire 2013.
“My mission is simple; qualify The Gambia for the next world cup in 2010 and African cup of nations in 2012 and that I will succeed in with great confidence. Mr. President, my promise to you is not just to qualify The Gambia for 2012 World Cup but also develop and market the football in The Gambia, I know how you and the Gambian people love football and that is the foundation to my assignment,” were the words of Paul Put when his contract was being renewed in February 2009 by the Gambian head of state but he failed to stick to his words.
Omar Jawo’s Syrianska to play Allsvenskan football next season
Omar Jawo's Syrianska stays in Swedish top flight.
November 1st 2011 Gambian international Omar Jawo and his Swedish Allsvenskan team Syrianska FC played a spectacular game in Sweden’s promotion/relegation playoff this weekend, making their dreams of playing in the Allsvenskan next season become a reality as they ran out 4-3 winners on aggregate against Superettan team Ängelholms FF.
Omar Jawo started and went the distance for Syrianska, as he has done all season. Ängelholms won the first leg of the playoff by a 2-1 scoreline, but Omar Jawo’s Syrianksa’s 3-1 win put them ahead on aggregate and kept their spot in Sweden’s top flight.
Abgar Barsom opened the scoring in the 53th minute for Syrianska, but Ängelholms’ Sebastian Andersson was able to equalize just four minutes later. Ängelholms looked like they were heading towards promotion, but Johan Arneng knocked one home for Syrianska in the 65th minute, taking the lead in the game and tying the aggregate score.
In the 82nd minute Ängelholms’ Marcus Lindberg received a red card, putting his team into a tough situation for the remainder of the game. Then, deep into stoppage time, Ängelholms’ David Bennhage attempted a clearance off his own goal line, but accidentally sent the ball into his own net.
Seconds later the referee blew his whistle signifying the end of the game, and giving Syrianska the come from behind victory. Ängelholms will now have to fight another Superettan season for another shot at promotion while Omar Jawo and his Syrianska FC keep their precious place in Sweden’s Allsvenskan and he will join fellow Gambians Pa Dibba, brother Amadou Jawo and Kebba Ceesay in the Swedish top flight.
“It’s amazing,” Syrianksa’s Estonian coach Valeri Bondarenko said. “We showed the attitude we have. We have had problems all year with injuries and suspensions but we believe in it and showed willingness. Ängelholms FF should be commended for the way they played, but we deserve to stay in the Allsvenskan,” Bondarenko added.
Gambia draws Algeria in 2013 African Cup of Nations
Scorpions draw Algeria
November 1st 2011
The Scorpions of The Gambia will start their campaign against The Desert Warriors of Algeria in the second round of the 2013 Orange Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers schedule to take place in South Africa.
The competition will set off in the first half of 2012 but after the Africa Nations Cup in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January. A total of 30 countries will take part in the qualifiers from the start and only 16 including the host country South Africa will qualify.
The draws were conducted on Friday by the CAF sub-committee for the Africa Cup of Nations organising committee in Malabo. The Gambia is among 28 countries that will meet in the first and second round of the qualifiers to get 14 teams to join the 16 teams of the 2012 Africa Nations Cup teams in the final round.
Gambia is no stranger to the Algerian team as both teams met in the 2010 AFCON qualifiers with Algeria qualifying for the competition as well as in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers held in South Africa where The Desert Warriors also made it to the event.
Algeria is currently ranked 35 in the world and 4 in Africa whilst Gambia is ranked 111 in the world and 28 in Africa. Algeria has appeared in the African nations cup 14 times and winning it once in 1990 with The Gambia yet to qualify for Africa’s main event.
The 16 teams that qualified to CAN Orange 2012 will join directly in the final round of qualifiers. South Africa is qualified as host country. The Final Round will be played in September and October 2012.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations will be the 29th Africa Cup of Nations, the football championship of Africa organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It was scheduled to be hosted by Libya, however a decision by CAF to move the competition to South Africa, means Libya will not host.
Libya won the right to host the tournament after defeating a Nigerian bid along with three other bid winning nations, Angola, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Bids from Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Senegal were rejected and did not reach the shortlist.
For the first time in CAF history, the hosts of three successive tournaments were chosen at the same time; Angola was chosen to host in 2010, Gabon/Equatorial Guinea were chosen as hosts for the 2012 Cup and Libya for the 2013 edition. The winners of the tournament will qualify for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil as the representative from CAF.
The Scorpions of The Gambia will start their campaign against The Desert Warriors of Algeria in the second round of the 2013 Orange Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers schedule to take place in South Africa.
The competition will set off in the first half of 2012 but after the Africa Nations Cup in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea in January. A total of 30 countries will take part in the qualifiers from the start and only 16 including the host country South Africa will qualify.
The draws were conducted on Friday by the CAF sub-committee for the Africa Cup of Nations organising committee in Malabo. The Gambia is among 28 countries that will meet in the first and second round of the qualifiers to get 14 teams to join the 16 teams of the 2012 Africa Nations Cup teams in the final round.
Gambia is no stranger to the Algerian team as both teams met in the 2010 AFCON qualifiers with Algeria qualifying for the competition as well as in the 2010 World Cup qualifiers held in South Africa where The Desert Warriors also made it to the event.
Algeria is currently ranked 35 in the world and 4 in Africa whilst Gambia is ranked 111 in the world and 28 in Africa. Algeria has appeared in the African nations cup 14 times and winning it once in 1990 with The Gambia yet to qualify for Africa’s main event.
The 16 teams that qualified to CAN Orange 2012 will join directly in the final round of qualifiers. South Africa is qualified as host country. The Final Round will be played in September and October 2012.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations will be the 29th Africa Cup of Nations, the football championship of Africa organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It was scheduled to be hosted by Libya, however a decision by CAF to move the competition to South Africa, means Libya will not host.
Libya won the right to host the tournament after defeating a Nigerian bid along with three other bid winning nations, Angola, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Bids from Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Senegal were rejected and did not reach the shortlist.
For the first time in CAF history, the hosts of three successive tournaments were chosen at the same time; Angola was chosen to host in 2010, Gabon/Equatorial Guinea were chosen as hosts for the 2012 Cup and Libya for the 2013 edition. The winners of the tournament will qualify for the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil as the representative from CAF.
Brann Lets Tijan Jaiteh Go
Tijan is now free to accept any offers.
October 12th 2011 After the disappointment of Nations Cup failure, there’s more bad news for Gambian international Tijan Jaiteh.
His Norwegian club, Brann, has announced that it has parted company with the midfielder by mutual consent.
The 22-year old was under contract with Brann until the end of 2013. He was loaned to Randers FC of Denmark at the beginning of this year but had his loan agreement prematurely terminated in August for what Randers claimed was a “breach of contract”.
The matter has been referred to football world governing body, FIFA, for adjudication. Brann announced on the club’s website that Tijan will be free from January 2012 to find a new club without having to pay compensation to Brann for the remaining year on his current contract.
Brann Managing Director Roald Brunn-Hanssen is quoted as saying that the two parties discussed the situation after Tijan left Randers “without permission, thus breaking his loan contract”.
According to Brunn-Hanssen, “Tijan wants to build a career outside of Scandinavia and has agreed to terminate the contract with Brann in the interest of both parties.” The Brann chief executive thanked the Gambian midfielder for his contribution to the club since joining in late 2007.
He also wished Tijan success in his future pursuits.
Gambia miss out on Africa Cup of Nations
Scorpions of The Gambia.
October 9th 2011
It was an all too familiar story on Saturday as the Gambia National Football team, the Scorpions, failed to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations Finals courtesy of a shock 1-1 draw to the Stallions of Burkina Faso at the Independence stadium in Bakau.
The game was highly competed by both teams as it ended 1-1 with Gambia succumbing to a last-gasp equalizer by Burkina Faso in the 90th minute.
The game started with an aggressive option taken by the hosts whilst Burkina Faso were more defensive. Aziz Corr Nyang sneaked through inside the Burkina half and managed to chip a ball to talismanic striker Momodou Zico Ceesay but Zico’s header had no power as it was easily grabbed by Daouda Diakité.
In the 15th minute, Betrand Traore scurried inside Gambia’s penalty area and triggered a shot but young goal-keeper and full match debutant Musa Camara who replaced Pa Dembo Touray at goal caught the ball safely in his gloves.
Ten minutes later, Momodou Ceesay had an appeal for a penalty turned down as he was brought down in the penalty area.
Gambia’s real first chance of scoring came in the 37th minute when Neuchatel Xamax mid-fielder Abdourahman Dampha dribbled and forced his way through the Burkinabe half to beat past 2-3 players and laying a through ball to captain on the night Ousman Jallow who was quick to pass it to strike-partner Momodou Ceesay who tabbed the ball in sending the fans ablaze but the goal was quickly over-ruled as the referee through the assistance of his linesman ruled it out for an offside.
Minutes later, in Gambia’s quest to get a goal, Ousman Jallow triggered an out-of 18 shot just to watch his effort sailing wide. Both teams created several opportunities before the end of the first half but failed to capitalize in those chances.
The Scorpions came in to the second half with more urgency to get a goal and wrap up the game as they were reinvigorated by Belgian-born tactician Paul Put.
Aziz Corr Nyang had a chance in the 54th minute to put the team through but his brilliant struck of the ball could only hit the side-netting.
The dead-lock in the game was broken in the 60th minute by Mamadou Futty Danso in a superb position inside the Burkinabe six-yard box where he was served a long throw by Pa Modou Jagne and Futty was brilliant enough to nod in a powerful header to send the Scorpions fans cheering.
The Gambia had two brilliant chances to double lead minutes later, first through Momodou Ceesay and then Demba Savage but both squandered the golden opportunities to put the game to bed.
In the 72nd minute, another appeal for a genuine penalty was turned down again by the Tunisian referee leading to the team captain being furious and questioning the referee’s ability. He was later booked after the referee alleged that Ous, should not hold his shirt.
Burkina Faso responded in perfection, levelling the scores in the 90th minute after the 30-year-old striker Moumouni Dagano took advantage of a misplay in the Gambian defense and placed the ball in the net, leaving no chance to goalkeeper Musa Camara who seemed to be going for a clean sheet.
The referee pulled the plug three minutes later which resulted to sad faces drawn on Gambians and still the call for Paul Put been sacked goes on.
The draw was to be considered positive for Burkina Faso, who played away. “It was a good game,” Paulo Duarte, Burkina Faso head-coach said of the draw. “Despite the tough challenge of the Gambian team, our players were able to contain them and get a draw.”
He attributed the draw to the sense of purpose and commitment of his players. Paulo said he couldn’t understand how Gambia could have lost to minnows Namibia as in his own words “Nambia are a small team.” He said, Gambia deserves a draw because they’re a strong team and he doesn’t play with small teams [like Namibia].
They were determined to maintain their lead in the group and to finish in style and so they did.
For his part, the Scorpions coach Paul Put was no-where to be seen as he boycotted the press conference and could not find time to fraternize with the press [both local and international] and give his side of the story.
Meanwhile, Burkina Faso have already qualified for the tournament. However, they are involved in a dispute about the eligibility of Cameroon-born Herve Zengue, which may result in them losing their spot to Namibia. Zengue is married to a Burkinabe, which the Stallions believe is enough for him to play for them and Pauolo Duarte says Namibia are just wasting there time as Zengue is and will remain to be a Burkinabe because he has been married to a Burkinabe for about 8 years. But, under FIFA statues, a player who does not have a father, mother or grandparent born in a country must live there for five years before qualifying to represent them.
Namibia complained to CAF that Zengue does not meet this criteria and that he was ineligible to play in both matches against them. Should CAF rule in Namibia’s favour, they will be awarded the points for the matches against Burkina Faso and will go through to the final tournament. CAF postponed a ruling on the matter on September 29 and a decision is still being awaited.
Ous Jallow hat-trick in Rizespor victory
Ous scores first hat-trick since joining Rizespor
October 3rd 2011 Gambia international Ousman Jallow has warmed up for The Gambia versus Burkina Faso game scheduled for the weekend by scoring his first hat-trick for Turkish second tier club Çaykur Rizespor in a 4-2 win over Istanbul side, Kasimpaşa S.K.
Rizespor came from behind to win 4-2 as a 12 minute first half own goal from Mesut Yilmaz gave the visitors the lead but it only lasted for 10 minutes as Ousman Jallow scored a brilliant header from a cross on the left side of the pitch.
The Gambian goal-poacher added to his tally of goals in the 35th minute through an Erkan Kaş’ through-ball to him inside the penalty area and Ous was able to use his tricks on the opponents defence to net home the ball in a tight angle to put his team through.
Ousman Jallow added excitement to ecstasy with his hat-trick in the 52nd minute conveyed with rhythmical claps from the stance and setting the stadiums ablaze with loud cheers from the fans.
As if that wasn’t enough, Aytek Asikoglu added more salt to injury as his 68th minute lone effort was enough to sink Kasimpaşa. The away team only got a consolation 16 minutes from time as the league’s top scorer Nikolay Dimitrov scored to give the away fans something to cheer about, 4-2 it ended.
The lead propels Rizespor to 2nd place in the league with 10 points from 5 games, losing one and drawing one respectively. Whilst for Ousman Jallow, he has scored 5 in 5 and he’s currently joint top the goal tally chart in the league alongside Dimitrov and Sahin. Ous is expected to join The Gambia’s squad scheduled to face Burkina Faso over the weekend at the Independence stadium in Bakau.
Sanna’s assist propels Rapids to win
Sanna Nyassi's assist helps Rapids win
October 3rd 2011
Sanna Nyassi’s Colorado Rapids consolidated their wildcard playoff position with Sanna assisting in the 1-0 victory over visiting FC Dallas despite finishing the game with only 10 men.
Colorado defender Drew Moor provided the lone goal of the night as the hosts [Colorado Rapids] shut out FC Dallas 1-0 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park Saturday night.
Sanna Nyassi laid the groundwork for the first score of the night. In the 23rd minute the striker tested Kevin Hartman from distance, but the veteran goalkeeper pawed the attempt aside. Undeterred, Sanna [Nyassi] delivered perfect near post service to Moor on the corner kick. Moor rose above his marker and headed the ball home for a 1-0 Rapids lead.
Despite the early Rapids lead, FC Dallas finished the first half strong with Marvin Chavez and Ricardo Villar both forcing saves from goalkeeper Matt Pickens.
While FC Dallas maintained the majority of possession in the match, Colorado proved dangerous in the final third on multiple occasions. In the 52nd minute, Hartman came out nearly 25 yards from the top of the box to pressure Sanna who had broken out down the flank all alone on the counter attack. Under pressure from the veteran keeper, Sanna managed to get a shot off on the empty net, but it was off target, rolling wide of the far post.
In the 71st minute, Daniel Cruz played a long ball between Fabian Castillo and Chavez. The speedy duo caught up to the ball with Castillo taking it on the flank and going at two Colorado defenders. Castillo’s blocked shot fell to Chavez close to the penalty spot, but two Colorado defenders closed ranks to deny the Honduran International an opportunity. Continuing to attack, Brek Shea nearly curved one in from about 20-yards out.
Rapids were outnumbered for the final 16 minutes after Miguel Comminges picked up his second yellow card of the night. Chavez had the best chance at a Dallas equalizer in stoppage time, but chipped his attempt onto the roof of the open net.
Sanna was later subbed out in the remaining 9 minutes of the game for Wells Thompson who continued from where Sanna stopped.
After the game, Rapids head coach, Gary Smith said in an interview, “To beat Dallas means that we are that much closer to them and hopefully puts a little bit more pressure on them to get results.”
“We are going to try and chase them down,” he concluded.
With the win, the Rapids (10-9-12) now have 45 points, 19 behind Western Conference leaders LA Galaxy and are left with two games.
Sanna Nyassi’s Colorado Rapids consolidated their wildcard playoff position with Sanna assisting in the 1-0 victory over visiting FC Dallas despite finishing the game with only 10 men.
Colorado defender Drew Moor provided the lone goal of the night as the hosts [Colorado Rapids] shut out FC Dallas 1-0 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park Saturday night.
Sanna Nyassi laid the groundwork for the first score of the night. In the 23rd minute the striker tested Kevin Hartman from distance, but the veteran goalkeeper pawed the attempt aside. Undeterred, Sanna [Nyassi] delivered perfect near post service to Moor on the corner kick. Moor rose above his marker and headed the ball home for a 1-0 Rapids lead.
Despite the early Rapids lead, FC Dallas finished the first half strong with Marvin Chavez and Ricardo Villar both forcing saves from goalkeeper Matt Pickens.
While FC Dallas maintained the majority of possession in the match, Colorado proved dangerous in the final third on multiple occasions. In the 52nd minute, Hartman came out nearly 25 yards from the top of the box to pressure Sanna who had broken out down the flank all alone on the counter attack. Under pressure from the veteran keeper, Sanna managed to get a shot off on the empty net, but it was off target, rolling wide of the far post.
In the 71st minute, Daniel Cruz played a long ball between Fabian Castillo and Chavez. The speedy duo caught up to the ball with Castillo taking it on the flank and going at two Colorado defenders. Castillo’s blocked shot fell to Chavez close to the penalty spot, but two Colorado defenders closed ranks to deny the Honduran International an opportunity. Continuing to attack, Brek Shea nearly curved one in from about 20-yards out.
Rapids were outnumbered for the final 16 minutes after Miguel Comminges picked up his second yellow card of the night. Chavez had the best chance at a Dallas equalizer in stoppage time, but chipped his attempt onto the roof of the open net.
Sanna was later subbed out in the remaining 9 minutes of the game for Wells Thompson who continued from where Sanna stopped.
After the game, Rapids head coach, Gary Smith said in an interview, “To beat Dallas means that we are that much closer to them and hopefully puts a little bit more pressure on them to get results.”
“We are going to try and chase them down,” he concluded.
With the win, the Rapids (10-9-12) now have 45 points, 19 behind Western Conference leaders LA Galaxy and are left with two games.
Futty Danso’s Timbers wins Pacific Northwest rivalry against Toubabo Jarju’s Whitecaps
Toubabo's Whitecaps woeful season continues
October 3rd 2011 In their first match on Bell Pitch downtown at BC Place, Mustapha Toubabo Jarju’s Vancouver Whitecaps FC (4W-16L-10D) went down to a 1-0 defeat versus Pacific Northwest rivals Mamadou Futty Danso’s Portland Timbers (11W-13L-7D) on Sunday afternoon.
A first-half strike by Portland’s Kenny Cooper was the difference between the two MLS expansion clubs, with their second away victory of the season keeping the City of Roses outfit in the hunt for an MLS Cup Playoff spot in their inaugural year in the league. Though they had a good amount of possession, Toubabo Jarju’s Whitecaps FC were unable to break down Futty Danso’s Portland rocky defensive rearguard and complete a memorable first day back in their newly refurbished home.
Defeat for Whitecaps FC sees their winless run in MLS extend to four matches in what was the club’s 41st game in the downtown Vancouver stadium since the North American Soccer League season of 1983. The 'Caps also finish third in the three-club Cascadia Cup standings with one point from four Pacific Northwest derby matches played (0W-3L-1D), while the Timbers finish second with seven points from four matches played (2W-1L-1D). Seattle Sounders FC claimed the 2011 Cascadia Cup title with eight points from four games played (2W-0L-2D).
With the new retractable roof opened minutes before kickoff and plenty of excitement among a sold-out crowd of 21,000, Sunday’s derby clash was a closely fought encounter decided by a Portland attacking move midway through the opening 45 minutes.
The first MLS goal to be scored on Bell Pitch downtown came on 25 minutes, and it was Portland that recorded the goal. A ‘Caps turnover led to a Timbers counter-attack, with Colombian midfielder Diego Chara finding an unmarked Cooper wide on the left near the edge of the Vancouver box. The big striker took a touch before striking a half volley past Cannon and into the top corner of the goal for his seventh goal of the season.
It was a disappointing way for the home side to concede on their return home to BC Place, but the goal did spark Whitecaps FC into creating a set of chances. Camilo had a decent shot tipped over the Portland crossbar by Timbers goalkeeper Troy Perkins on 32 minutes, while Chiumiento hit the side-netting with his first chance two minutes later. It meant the Timbers took their slender one-goal lead into the halftime break.
An improvement in performance was required from Whitecaps FC to turn this derby contest around in the second half, but the second 45 minutes brought more frustration, as Vancouver could not find the opening they desired to level matters.
There was more disappointment for the home side on 53 minutes, as striker Eric Hassli was booked by match referee Mark Geiger following a challenge on Timbers centre back Mamadou Futty Danso.
With the Timbers seemingly content to protect their slim advantage, the impetus was on the ‘Caps to find their way back into the game. Substitute John Thorrington had a couple of half-chances for the Blue and White, while Salinas forced an assured save from Perkins with a solid shot on target. In fact, the best chance of the second half fell to goal scorer Cooper at the other end, but Cannon did well to deny the former FC Dallas striker in his six-yard box on 59 minutes.
Mustapha Toubabo Jarju came in as a 68th minute sub coming in for David Chiumiento and he [Toubabo] saw only 22 minutes of play.
After the game, a very frustrated and disappointed Whitecaps FC head coach Tom Soehn said, “I didn’t think we had the best of energy in the first half and it’s hard to explain when you look at this venue and the excitement. You don’t get too many opportunities to open up a new stadium of this quality, especially against a rival,” he concluded.
Mustapha Toubabo Jarju’s Whitecaps FC will have a short turnaround from Sunday’s game, as they host MLS Western Conference rivals Real Salt Lake in their rescheduled home match on Thursday night whilst Mamadou Futty Danso’s Portland Timbers will now take an extended break before hosting Eastern Conference side Houston Dynamo on Friday, October 14.
Sainey and Mansally’s Revs eliminated from MLS playoff after defeat against Amadou Sanyang’s Seattle
Sainey and Kenny's play-off hopes evaporates in thin-air
October 3rd 2011 Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s New England Revolution have been officially eliminated from MLS playoff contention, but the character-shaping, the re-tooling of the roster may be just beginning after a 2-1 setback at the hands of Amadou Baresi Sanyang’s Seattle Sounders Saturday before a large spectator turnout of 21,002 at the Gillette Stadium.
Gambians Amadou Sanyang and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally were both not on show for their respective teams as Kenny just watched from the bench with Baresi not making it to the travelled squad whilst Sainey, is still nursing an injury.
Seattle scoring sensation Fredy Montero twice deposited the ball in the back of the New England net, boosting his goal-scoring total to 11 - the striker now having five goals and three assists over the past six matches, overshadowing the starting assignment and first career goal by 16-year old Diego Fagundez.
The difference, “having a great nucleus,” said former New England defender James Riley, now with Seattle. “The organization brings confidence, it’s top notch, in their treatment of the players and we reciprocate the energy.”
The Revolution (4-5-6 at home this season) had the much better run of play through the first half, limiting Seattle to just one shot and without a corner kick - taking the lead when the Leominster-raised Fagundez split the Sounder defense and headed in Benny Feilhaber’s corner kick in the 35th minute.
True to form, however, the Revolution defense allowed space, allowing Seattle to knot the match a minute later and take the lead on the 24-year old Cali, Colombia-native Montero's second goal of the match.
Montero turned a Revolution defender around and uncorked a 20-yard blast from the left to the far right corner knotting the match. Then Seattle's Nate Jacqua volleyed a ball into the penalty box area, where Montero got to the ball quicker than a New England defender for the go-ahead goal in the 47th minute.
Seattle, the No. 2 team in MLS' Western Conference, is now 16-6-9 overall on the season, improved its road slate to 8-3-5, has won four straight road matches and is 5-1 over its last six outings scoring 16 goals.
“We had chances and pressure,” said New England coach Steve Nicol, the Revolution having an 18-9 advantage in shots, 8-3 with shots on goal and 5-1 in corner kicks. “But, we make a mistake and it costs us dearly.”
For his part, Sounders coach Sigi Schmid said “This team has a lot of character.” “In the first half we were really pretty sluggish; it was not our best half of soccer by a long shot. In the second half we did what we had to do,” he concluded.
Paul Put names invited players to face Burkina in final AFCON 2012 qualifier
Some key names excluded from the list by Coach Paul Put
September 29th 2011 Scorpions coach Paul Put have released his list of invited players invited for The Gambia’s last group game qualifier for the 2012 African Cup of Nations game against Burkina Faso.
and amongst those invited, Aziz Corr Nyang is invited back but there’s no place for skipper Mustapha Toubabo Jarju and the Nyassi twins [Sanna and Sainey].
27-year-old striker Aziz Corr Nyang has been recalled back to the national team after being left out of the Scorpions’ Nations Cup qualifiers against Burkina Faso and Namibia away, both of which the team lost.
After helping the Scorpions of The Gambia secure a 3-1 home win against Namibia at the start of the 2012 qualifying campaign in September last year, Aziz was overlooked for the trips to Burkina Faso in March this year, which the Scorpions lost 3-1 in Ouagadougou, and to Namibia on the 3rd of this month which resulted in a 1-0 loss in Windhoek.
Belgian tactician Paul Put has called up 17 foreign-based players for the Gambia’s last group game against Burkina Faso in Banjul scheduled for October the 8th. Former Real de Banjul and Under-17 striker, Ebrima Bojang, has also been called up and defender Kebba Ceesay returns after missing the Namibia trip on accumulation of cards.
But there seems to be no place for Mustapha Toubabo Jarju in the list seen by Gambia Sports Online and according to CTV British Columbia’s sports director, Perry Solkowski Toubabo Jarju has told Gambia he will not fly home to play for the national side next month and though it’s a tough decision, but right choice for now he said. Toubabo skippered the Scorpions in Windhoek despite the presence of Pa Dembo Touray. Seyfo Soley, who was invited but not used in Windhoek, has also been left out and the Nyassi brothers [Sanna and Sainey] have also not made it to Paul Put’s 17-man list.
Mamadou Futty Danso is expected to travel from Vancouver anytime after 20:00 on the 3rd October and one or two home based players may be added to the team depending on the circumstances according to Paul Put.
Below reads the full list of players invited to face Burkina Faso at the Independence stadium in Bakau next week:
1) Pa Dembo Touray [Djurgården IF, Sweden]
2) Kebba Ceesay [Djurgården IF, Sweden]
3) Aziz Corr Nyang [IF Brommapojkarna, Sweden]
4) Ebrima Sohna [Sandefjord, Norway]
5) Lamin Bassmen Samateh [NK Lokomotiva, Croatia]
6) Abdou Jammeh [Kazma Sporting Club, Kuwait]
7) Saihou Gassama [Real Zaragoza, Spain]
8) Demba Savage [FC Honka, Finland]
9) Momodou Ceesay [MŠK Žilina, Slovakia]
10) Ousman Jallow [Çaykur Rizespor, Turkey]
11) Ebrima Sawaneh [RAEC Mons, Belgium]
12) Abdoulie Kenny Mansally [New England Revolution, USA]
13) Omar Jawo [Syrianska FC, Sweden]
14) Mamadou Danso [Portland Timbers, USA]
15) Pa Modou Jagne [FC St. Gallen, Switzerland]
16) Abdourahman Dampha [Neuchâtel Xamax, Switzerland]
17) Ebrima Bojang [AS Saint-Étienne, France]
The Gambia’s chances of making a first-ever Nations Cup appearance evaporated after the defeat in Namibia, who could qualify on appeal after Burkina Faso was alleged to have used an ineligible player in its home-and-away wins over the Brave Warriors.
Meanwhile the CAF Organising Committee of the Orange Africa Cup of Nations, during its meeting of September 26, 2011, examined the case of eligibility of the Burkina Faso player, Hervé Zengué which brought about the complaint on June 4, 2011 by the Namibian Football Federation. In order to obtain more information and determine the qualification or non qualification of the player in question, the Commission postponed its decision to a later date.
Carayol targets starting-role in Buckle’s team after hat-trick
Muzzy target's starting spot
September 29th 2011 Twenty-two year old Gambia winger Mustapha Carayol issued a reminder of his talents with a hat-trick as Bristol Rovers fought out a 4-4 draw with Brentford in an entertaining reserve-team game at the Memorial Stadium.
But the winger knows it may not be enough to win him a place in the starting line-up for Saturday’s home game against Cheltenham Town.
Coach Paul Buckle watched Carayol head Rovers in front from a 26th-minute corner, then double their lead four minutes later with a fine solo effort which saw him dribble past a clutch of defenders before firing home.
He completed his treble from the penalty spot just before the hour after being brought down.
But the manager [Buckle] has already hinted that the attacking unit he fielded in Saturday’s 3-2 win at Morecambe, with Matt Harrold and Scott McLeish up front, Chris Zebroski and Joe Anyinsah out wide is his first choice.
“That is the one he had in the first game of the season and it looks as though that is his preferred four up front,” said Carayol nicknamed Muzzy.
“Obviously, I’ve been disappointed that I’ve not been playing, but I’ll bide my time and wait. Hopefully, when an opportunity does come, I’ll take it.
“All I can do is keep working hard and I’ll always do my best in whatever game I’m playing in.”
“Obviously, there are going to be times when things don’t come off for me, but, thankfully, today they did,” Muzzy said.
He concluded by saying, “I’ve never scored a hat-trick in a first-team game, although I’ve had a few before for the reserves. It was nice to get some goals and also a good workout in terms of fitness.”
Kayne McLaggon was Rovers’ other scorer forcing the ball home from close range after Eliot Richards had fired towards goal following Wayne Brown’s free-kick, but the Bees fought back from 2-0 and then 4-2 down thanks to Sam Wood’s hat-trick and Mike Grella’s chip over keeper Lance Cronin.
Baresis’s Seattle clean sheet in CONCACAF continues
Amadou Sanyang contributed in the victory.
September 15th 2011 After three matches in the group stage of CONCACAF Champions League last year, Amadou “Baresi” Sanyang’s Sounders FC struggled through two road defeats while also dropping a tough home match to the eventual champions, Monterrey.
This year, they opened with a 4-1 home victory and a surprising 1-0 win in Monterrey. On Wednesday, they continued their dramatic turnaround in Champions League play with a 2-1 road victory over Herediano.
Fredy Montero scored twice, getting assists from Roger Levesque and Nate Jaqua on both tallies, and the defense stood strong against a series of threats from Herediano to hold on for the win, improving Seattle to 3-0-0 for nine points with three matches left to play.
Montero got the Sounders off to a fast start, netting a goal in his third straight match after scoring in the Open Cup semifinal against FC Dallas and in MLS play against Real Salt Lake in Seattle’s last two matches.
Roger Levesque played the ball in to Nate Jaqua at the top of the box. He turned on his defender and rolled it out to Montero up the right side, who bolted past his marker before sending a shot inside the far post for a 1-0 lead in the 3rd minute.
The Sounders controlled much of the possession for the remainder of the first half, but had a few stray moments that allowed Herediano to stay in the match.
Then in the closing moments of the first half, Levesque was whistled for a foul in the box, as he collided with Jose Cubero as the two eyed a ball swung into the box from the far side.
Jose Cancela knocked home the ensuing penalty kick, shooting it to Kasey Keller’s right while Keller dove left to even the tally before the break.
The game didn’t remain knotted for long though, as Montero completed the brace with a lunging effort to knock home a nice left-footed shot from Levesque that took a slight deflection, Montero ensuring that it found the net at the far post.
In the waning moments of the match Herediano played long ball after long ball toward the Seattle box, but second half substitutions of Amadou Sanyang and James Riley pushed the Sounders into a defensive unit that was able to withstand the pressure without giving Herediano many opportunities on goal.
The Sounders now hold a three point lead over Comunicaciones of Guatemala, who topped Monterrey 2-1 on Wednesday to move to 2-1-0 in the group and will host Herediano on Tuesday at CenturyLink Field with a chance to wrap up a berth in the quarterfinals with a victory.
First, though, they will meet DC United at CenturyLink Field with a chance to tighten their grip on second place in the MLS standings. “Last year we were disappointed in our performance in Champions League, maybe even a little bit embarrassed,” Sounders FC head coach Sigi Schmid said. “It was definitely a goal we had set for ourselves that we wanted to get better as we came back into it. So we went 2-0 in our first three games on the road, which makes it even that much greater of an accomplishment. I’m very proud of what we have done.”
Sainey Touray starts training with Philadelphia Union
Sainey Touray hoping for a Philly deal
September 15th 2011 Not even two weeks has passed since the Harrisburg City Islanders tumbled to the Orlando City Lions in the USL PRO championship game, but forward Sainey Touray and his team-mate Morgan Langley are getting lengthy looks from Major League Soccer’s struggling Philadelphia Union.
The City Islanders duo were asked to train with the team this week, according to the Harrisburg City Islanders' Facebook page.
According to City Islanders head coach Bill Becher, Sainey Touray alias Ballack and Langley have been training with the Philly [Philadelphia Union] (8-7-12, 36 points) since the beginning of the week.
Ballack featured heavily for Harrisburg City in 2011, playing in 21 games, scoring seven goals and assisting on six others in 1,161 minutes.
The 21-year-old forward is a former Gambian under-17 and under-20 international and is on-loan from the Carolina Railhawks after a previous spell with the New York Red Bulls and an unsuccessful trial in 2008 with Arsenal in the English Premier League. At 6'1" [1.85m], Touray would bring some size to the Union's offense, if signed and will become the seventh Gambian to sign for an MLS club following in the footsteps of the Nyassi brothers [Sainey and Sanna], Abdoulie Mansally, Mamadou Danso, Amadou Sanyang, Mustapha Jarju and former San Jose and Gambian player Omar Jasseh.
The third-place Union, who last season inked former City Islanders player Sheanon Williams following a short trial, are winless in their last eight league games (0-3-5), a skid that stretches back to mid-July.
About Philadelphia Union
The Philadelphia Union is an American professional soccer club based in the Philadelphia satellite city of Chester, Pennsylvania, which competes in Major League Soccer (MLS), the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada.
The Union became MLS's sixteenth team upon their expansion into the league in 2010. The team plays their home matches at PPL Park, a soccer-specific stadium located on the banks of the Delaware River, and is coached by former Polish international Piotr Nowak.
The Philadelphia Union's primary rivals are D.C. United and the New York Red Bulls. These rivalries exist primarily because of geographical proximity and the traditional animosities between the metropolitan areas of Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and New York City in other professional sports leagues. The Union also have a bit of a rivalry with Amadou Sanyang’s Seattle Sounders FC despite the 2,377 miles (3,825 km) between Philadelphia and Seattle. The cross-country feud started when the Philadelphia Union played its inaugural MLS game in Seattle. It continued when PPL Park's first-ever home game pitted the club against Seattle. The rivalry culminated as they were regularly compared to the 2009 expansion Sounders FC during their inaugural 2010 season as evidenced by defender Danny Califf, “Last year there was all this measuring of us against Seattle in their inaugural year, so maybe it created a bit more of a rivalry. They’re a good team coming in here, and after the start they had they’d really like to take it to us.”
Njogu Demba set for Gills chance today
Njogu Demba to be given chance today
September 14th 2012 As reported by Gam Sports Online that Gambian striker Njogu Demba-Nyrén will be under-going a trial at English league two side, Gillingham FC, we can again report that Njogu will have a chance to prove himself today when Gills face Ipswich.
Gillingham FC will have a look at Njogu Demba-Nyrén in a friendly game today as they weigh up whether the much-travelled striker is worth adding to the squad.
The 32-year-old Gambia international has trained with Gillingham and will get a run-out as the squad’s fringe players travel to take on Ipswich Town in a behind-closed-doors game.
Njogu Demba-Nyrén has played all over Europe, including spells in Denmark, Sweden, Greece, Norway and Bulgaria, during a varied career and finished last season in League One at Notts County, where he scored once in 12 appearances although he has been told his contract will not be renewed beyond the summer of 2011.
Njogu Demba was on trial at Birmingham City but the deal wasn’t materialized and the player immediately showed interest in playing for Norwich but they didn’t show interest and since then he has been looking for a club until recently when he started to train with Gillingham.
The Gills are in the market for a striker, but manager Andy Hessenthaler will reserve his judgment until after the game.
He said: “He [Njogu Demba] has been training with us and we’ll have a look at him [at Ipswich].”
“It came from an agent who asked us to have a look at him, he played for West Ham and it didn’t work out there for him, the level was too much. In training he’s looked okay but you never really know until you see them in a real match,” Hessenthaler concluded.
Gillingham FC will have a look at Njogu Demba-Nyrén in a friendly game today as they weigh up whether the much-travelled striker is worth adding to the squad.
The 32-year-old Gambia international has trained with Gillingham and will get a run-out as the squad’s fringe players travel to take on Ipswich Town in a behind-closed-doors game.
Njogu Demba-Nyrén has played all over Europe, including spells in Denmark, Sweden, Greece, Norway and Bulgaria, during a varied career and finished last season in League One at Notts County, where he scored once in 12 appearances although he has been told his contract will not be renewed beyond the summer of 2011.
Njogu Demba was on trial at Birmingham City but the deal wasn’t materialized and the player immediately showed interest in playing for Norwich but they didn’t show interest and since then he has been looking for a club until recently when he started to train with Gillingham.
The Gills are in the market for a striker, but manager Andy Hessenthaler will reserve his judgment until after the game.
He said: “He [Njogu Demba] has been training with us and we’ll have a look at him [at Ipswich].”
“It came from an agent who asked us to have a look at him, he played for West Ham and it didn’t work out there for him, the level was too much. In training he’s looked okay but you never really know until you see them in a real match,” Hessenthaler concluded.
Sawaneh sees reds as Mons downed
Bad week for Ibou
September 13th 2011 After the Scorpions dismal performance in Namibia some weeks ago, Ibou Sawaneh and his Belgian Jupiler club side, RAEC Mons succumbed to their first defeat in the season with a 3-1 defeat away at the hands of Leuven with Ibou Sawaneh seeing red in the first half.
Leuven are fifth after defeating 10-man Mons 3-1 at the Stadion 'Den Dreef', with Derick Ogbu's second-half double sealing the win in a very controversial goal.
Jordan Remacle's 20th-minute penalty put Leuven ahead but Mons, despite losing striker Ibou Sawaneh to a second booking resulting in a sending off in the 34th minute, drew level just after half-time through Matumona Zola.
However, Leuven made the most of their numerical advantage thanks to Ogbu's goals in the 70th and 83rd minutes.
Sawaneh will be missing Mons next three games and will be watching off the sidelines.
Mons are now levelled with points alongside Leuven but are topping them on goal difference with six games played in the league.
Paul Jatta’s Brøndby romps HB Køge
Paul Jatta wasn't part of the romping
September 13th 2011 Paul Jatta and his Danish Superligaen side Brøndby IF on Sunday demolished HB Køge with a five-goal performance at the Brøndby stadion with Paul Jatta only watching from the bench.
Køge defender Brad Rusin was a late scratch from the contest due to injury. Despite the spate of injuries, Køge held their own well into the first half, but predictably saw the game fall apart in the final ten minutes before the break.
A botched takeaway by a Køge defender deep in his own territory left the ball hanging approximately 25 yards straight out, and Mikkel Thygesen rushed in to emphatically strike a laser-guided missile to the left side of goal which the Køge keeper could only watch fly over the line for 1-0.
Six minutes later, the lead was doubled thanks to the quick link-up play of Martin Bernburg and Michael Krohn-Dehli, with the former popping a short pass over the shoulder of his marking defender to Krohn-Dehli, whose one-timed shot from the edge of the area was well out of the keeper's reach.
Matters quickly became worse for the visitors shortly into the second half, first when longtime Danish international Dennis Rommedahl did fine work on the right side to get the ball to the endline, where he sent a cross to the far post in perfect position for Bernburg to slide in face-first and head it over the line from two yards out.
Krohn-Dehli then made it four for the hosts at the hour, picking up a loose ball at 40 yards out and advancing towards goal before hitting a low, hard shot just to the left of Køge keeper Morten H. Jensen, which bounced errantly off of his right hand on its way into the back netting.
The blowout was finally completed with eight minutes left in regulation, when a slick display of passing on the attacking end by Brøndby ended with Brent McGrath aiming a cross from the right side directly at the far post, where Thygesen lunged in acrobatically to head it in from point-blank range in mid-air.
Paul Jatta’s Brøndby pull five points clear of the drop zone with the win, now in eighth place. They next face off against currently-hot Nordsjaelland on Sunday.
Sanna’s Rapids loose MLS Cup playoffs
Sanna's efforts weren't enough
September 10th 2011 Gambian international Sanna Nyassi and his MLS side, Colorado Rapids dreams of going into an MLS Cup playoffs was dent a blow as they succumbed to a 1-0 defeat against Western Conference league leaders LA Galaxy.
With three points, the Galaxy became the first team to clinch a spot in the MLS Cup playoffs, which will culminate with MLS Cup 2011 at the Home Depot Center on Nov. 20.
It was Landon Donovan’s 36th minute goal that proved the difference, and an airtight defense that made it stand up.
Colorado had a key absence as Drew Moor was not part of the starting lineup for the first time since Aug. 6, 2009, snapping an MLS record streak for field players of 6,210 consecutive minutes played. Moor was suspended for the match on yellow-card accumulation, and veteran defender and former Galaxy defender Tyrone Marshall started alongside Marvell Wynne in central defense.
The absence hurt Colorado, who were put on the back foot almost from the opening whistle. Cardozo was especially effective in the first half hour, testing Colorado ‘keeper Matt Pickens, who put in a man of the match performance in defeat. Cardozo, who made his third start of the season and saw his first minutes since July 9, had five shots in the first half alone and forced Pickens to make a pair of standout saves in order to prevent him from scoring.
The Galaxy goal finally came after a series of brilliant Pickens saves had kept them out. Some nifty passing found Barrett down the middle after the forward did a good job of staying onside on a through ball. He slipped a ball forward to Sean Franklin, who found Donovan unmarked on the left side of the box. Donovan hammered the ball inside the far post, leaving Pickens no chance.
Colorado meanwhile had just two shots in the first half and only one a soft attempt by Jeff Larentowicz in the 33rd minute which was on target.
Sanna Nyassi, who played the whole game in Namibia’s 1-0 defeat to The Gambia in the AFCON 2012 qualifier was subbed in to replace Gambian hopeful Macoumba Kandji in the 39th minute.
In the 56th minute, Colorado appeared to have scored the equalizer when Wells Thompson knocked a rebound past a sprawled-out Ricketts. However, the goal was waved off as Thompson was ruled to have been in an offside position.
Colorado countered with Omar Cummings and a tactical shift to a 3-4-3. It generated more possession, but the visitors lacked a cutting edge even when they were able to put LA onto the back foot.
Colorado (10-8-11, 41 points) meanwhile stay in fifth place in the Western Conference, comfortably in playoff position but slipping further and further from the first-round bye that comes from a top-three conference finish. They will be hoping for a win as they’ll see CONCACAF Champions League action on Tuesday when they host Santos Laguna.
Dawda Bah makes losing debut
Losing debut for Dawda Bah
September 10th 2011 Dawda Bah made a losing debut in the Bundesliga but clinched his place in the history of Gambian football, becoming the first player from his country to play in Germany’s highest league.
The Gambian international was subbed in to replace Axel Bellinghausen in the 77th minute of Augsburg’s Matchday 5 home game against Bayer Leverkusen.
The hosts scored first through Japanese international Hajime Hosogai in the 5th minute but Bayer Leverkusen leveled seconds later through Sidney Sam.
The Bundesliga runners-up eventually romped to a 4-1 demolition of their hosts.
Augsburg are still looking for their maiden Bundesliga win.
Badou Jack signed by boxing agency
Badou signed by Empire Sports
September 8th 2011 Gambian middleweight boxer, Badou Jack has become the first Gambian boxer to sign a boxing contract with a sports and entertainment agency based in the United States of America.
“Being a boxer in Sweden is like playing ice hockey in Africa,” laughs undefeated super middleweight Badou Jack nicknamed “The Ripper”.
The 27-year-old recently moved from his native Stockholm to Florida and signed a promotional contract with The Empire Sports and Entertainment. “Boxing is not so big in Sweden, so if you want to be a boxer you have to get out of there”, Badou Jack said.
It’s been an unlikely journey in boxing so far for Jack, who was hanging around “doing nothing” in his late teens until a friend talked him into checking out the local boxing gym. “I was 17 years old and my friend took me to the gym. The trainer that first day told me I have real talent and I've been boxing ever since. I won my first 25 fights and I won the Swedish Championship six times. I won a lot of tournaments in Europe. I had 150 fights and my record was something like 122-28”, Badou is quoted as saying shortly after he signed his contract.
Despite his parents’ protestations, Badou Jack, whose father is of Gambian heritage whilst the mother is Swedish, went on to become Gambia’s first-ever Olympian, representing his father’s home country as a middleweight. “It was a real good experience to be there, but not the fight. I lost to the eventual bronze medalist. He was a runner and was holding a lot. I would knock him out if it was a pro fight. I’m a fighter, so pro boxing is much better for me. And I’m in great condition so I can fight more than four rounds. I like to fight six or eight rounds”, he said.
Even more unlikely than becoming a boxer in Sweden is making friends with a heavyweight champion who eventually moves you into his house and hooks you up with his promoter but that’s exactly what happened.
Explaining on how the whole contract came about, Badou said, it is thirty-nine year old American heavyweight boxer and actor Shannon Briggs who helped him out on getting the contract. He said, “Shannon Briggs was in Sweden for the Ingo Memorial show and he liked me, so we kept contact through the social media [Facebook]. It was Shannon’s idea for me to move here and sign with The Empire and I trust him. So I’m staying here at his place in Florida. I love it. The weather is nice and the girls and everything.”
Although he is fairly tall for the division, Jack says he likes to fight on the inside. “I can do a lot. I like to fight on the inside and work the body. I have a very good uppercut.”
Odds makers could probably have never predicted the improbable rise in professional boxing of a Gambian-Swedish who didn't start boxing until he was nearly 18 years old. But here is Badou Jack, a strong body-ripping powerhouse set to begin making waves at 75 kg (170 lbs). With an influential promoter and a world champion for a housemate, Jack looks set to beat the odds.
“You never know what will happen in boxing... that's why people outside Sweden love it so much,” concluded The Ripper.
The Empire Sports & Entertainment is engaged in the business of "live" entertainment, as a promoter and producer for the highest quality music and sporting events. Their goal is to become the leader in integrated promotion, marketing and production of live events covering a wide range of talent and Badou is lucky to be part of them as the first Gambian professional boxer.
Kenny and Sainey’s Revs held in a dramatic tie
Sainey and Kenny were not featured
September 8th 2011 Abdoulie “Kenny” Mansally and Sainey Nyassi’s New England Revolution played one of the wildest games of the MLS season, as they visited the Philadelphia Union in which the home side erased a pair of three-goal deficits to earn a gutsy 4-4 draw at PPL Park on Wednesday night.
Philly striker Sébastien Le Toux came through with a pair of goals as time was winding down to help the Union escape with one point and partly spoil an epic first-half performance from the Revs, who produced their highest-scoring output of the season.
New England’s stunning offensive surge was fueled by A.J. Soares, Rajko Lekic, Moncef Zerka and Benny Feilhaber, all of whom netted first-half goals to help New England go into the halftime break with a commanding 4-1 lead.
But the late-charging Union (8-7-11), who got a first-half goal from Roger Torres to stay alive, stormed back on the strength of Freddy Adu’s first MLS goal since 2007 and the late heroics from Le Toux, who scored on a penalty kick in the 79th minute and again in stoppage time after a deflection in the box.
Long before the late drama, the Revolution (4-11-12) blitzed the Union for three goals in the first 26 minutes, probably giving nightmares to Philadelphia rookie goalkeeper Zac MacMath, who was making his first career start in place of injured captain Faryd Mondragón (broken finger).
The barrage began in the ninth minute when rookie Soares headed home his first career MLS goal. The tally was set up by a free kick near the corner flag from Chris Tierney after Union defender Gabriel Farfan was whistled for a foul on Zerka.
Twelve minutes later, another Union penalty led to a Revs goal as Stefani Miglioranzi was whistled for a foul on New England forward Lekic just inside the penalty area. Lekic then deposited the ensuing penalty kick in the back of the net for his fifth goal of the year.
The Revs made it 3-0 in the 26th minute on another solid cross from Tierney, who this time found the head of an unmarked Zerka on the Moroccan's MLS debut.
But Le Toux wasn't done. With New England bunkering and down to 10 men after Pat Phelan had to come off with a head injury, Philly stepped on the gas and pinned the Revs back. It was Le Toux who got the break through, making it 4-4 on the stroke of stoppage time after a scrum in the six-yard box.
While several of his teammates have shrugged off injury complaints, Revolution and Gambian midfielder Sainey Nyassi continues along the road to recovery from a right MCL sprain.
Nyassi jogged off to the side as the Revs completed their final preparations before the trip to PPL Park in midweek. Nicol ruled Nyassi out of contention for that match, but he noted that the Gambian midfielder has made strides toward returning to fitness over the past few weeks.
“As of now, it's a case of how much he can do before he feels it,” Nicol said. “It's not just that you wake up one day and it's gone. He's getting there.”
Whilst fellow countryman and team-mate Abdoulie “Kenny” Mansally was included in the travelled squad as he returned to Massachusetts on Monday night after spending the past week away on international duty as Namibia defeated by Gambia a lone goal but he wasn’t included in the subs bench.
The Revs, meanwhile, return home to face FC Dallas at Gillette Stadium on Saturday evening.
Tony sets sight on Gambian Tiger
Young Gambian boxer
September 7th 2011 Twenty-year old Gambian professional boxer, Patrick Mendy, nicknamed Tiger could be up for another Super middleweight boxing challenge when injured English fighter recuperates from an injury.
Tony Jeffries’ latest injury setback will not derail his ambitions to fight for a title in the early part of next year.
Jeffries won every round against the cagy Paul Morby in Doncaster on Saturday night, but suffered a gash across his right eye, which needed five stitches.
It was his third cut in four contests and inevitably raises concerns that such injuries could hinder him in the months and years to come.
But dad and manager Phil Jeffries is confident his son will bounce back and a clash with Reading’s Prizefighter super-middleweight champion Patrick Mendy is now being lined up.
“[Patrick] Mendy is a possibility,” said Phil. “Tony will not be able to spar for 28 days because of the cut.
“But it was only five stitches and the plan is still for him to box on November 5 in Liverpool.”
There was only going to be one winner between Jeffries and Morby, a slippery southpaw set out solely on survival.
It looked from the slightly shocked look on his opponent’s face that Jeffries was destined for a seventh professional stoppage as he pounded his way forward in the early stages of the contest at Doncaster Dome.
But Portsmouth’s former southern area champion Morby, while never looking likely to trouble Jeffries, found a way to hang in there, ducking shots, holding on and making the fight an increasingly untidy and frustrating spectacle.
Too often, though, Jeffries was guilty of marching forward and failing to maintain the sort of range that might have given him the opportunity to land cleaner, more damaging blows on Morby.
For his part, Tony Jeffries said “I hope this heals quickly and I can keep busy. I don’t want to be waiting months again to fight. I want to get on a roll now”.
Patrick Mendy (born September 26, 1990) is a Gambian professional boxer who was born in Gambia and currently lives in Maidenhead, a town in Berkshire, England.
He made his debut as a professional boxer on 6 March 2009 against Travis Dickinson and lost on points. He then lost his next fight as well against Tobias Webb on points, with each of his first two opponents their debuts. He was picked as a contender for the 13th series of Prizefighter where he went on to win the competition. He was also the youngest fighter ever to take part in the competition at the age of 19.
Mendy fought his first professional fight on 6th March 2009 and had a bad start to his career losing his first two fights against debutants Travis Dickinson and Tobias Webb. But, he went on to win his next two fights, one against another debutant Matt Jack on points and next against Luke Allon on points who had a record of two wins in two fights.
On June 30, 2010, Mendy competed in the 13th series of Prizefighter and came out the eventual winner of the competition. He came in to the competition following a loss from undefeated Kenny Anderson. In his first fight he beat Sam Horton by TKO in the 1st round and broke the record for the fastest ever knockout in Prizefighter at 82 seconds (1:22min).
In the semi-final he beat Daniel Cadman by unanimous decision with all the scorecards reading 29-28 in favour of Mendy. In the final he fought in form Paul David and won on unanimous decision again and received £32,000 for his win, the judges’ scorecards were all in favour of Mendy, 29-28, 29-28, 30-27. In this series he broke an outstanding 3 Prizefighter records namely: Youngest ever Prizefighter contestant (19 years and 276 days), Youngest ever Prizefighter winner (19 years and 276 days) and Fastest ever knockout (Vs Sam Horton in 82 seconds (1:22).
“I believed in myself and I said at the beginning I would win this. There were no doubts about it” Patrick Mendy was quoted as saying when he became champion of the 13th series of Prizefighter.
Matthew Mendy signs contract with Trönö IK
Matthew Mendy spotted at Trönö IK
September 6th 2011 Former Gambian vice-captain and defender Matthew Mendy has signed a two-months contract with a Swedish Division 3 Södra Norrland side, Trönö IK, Gambia Sports Online can reliably reveal.
Matthew signed a short term contract with Trönö IK with effect from August 1st and will be at the Division 3 Södra Norrland for 2 months until the end of the season.
Matthew went to Trönö after having a one-year stint at Chinese based club Anhui Jiufang in the China League One. He later moved to another Chinese League One side this year, Shenyang Shenbei F.C but was unsuccessful at the club prompting the Swedish club to come calling for him.
Matthew started his professional career in USA for George Mason University in 2003 and had a four-year spell with them. He later moved to Germany to have spells with KFC Uerdingen 05and 1. FC Kleve.
Spending only a month with Kleve, he later signed for Austrian outfit FC Vöcklabruck.
Matthew started his international career with The Gambia since 2006 where he was one time, vice-captain and is reportedly to have capped for The Gambia nine times.
The club also acquired the services of former Degerfors IF, Romanian side Petrosani and first Gambian player to play in South America Yankuba “Mal” Ceesay and youngster Abdoulie “Cho” Sanneh. The northern club drafted in the Gambian trio in an effort to save their season and club from relegation whilst Abdoulie “Cho” Manneh played club football for Real de Banjul before leaving for the US, where he played college football.
Matthew Mendy did play his first game with the duo last Saturday for the club, and was the man of the match when Trönö thrashed Sjötulls IK with a 6-1 away. Mendy scored the first goal. Midfielder Yankuba “Mal” Ceesay scored twice from his central midfield position, and 22-year-old young Gambia striker Abdoulie “Cho” scored twice as well. The 6th goal was scored by Magnus Wallgren, one of the best Swedish players in Trönö.
Their next game will be on Saturday against IK Huge at home.
Confirming the story to Gambia Sports Online, the trio’s agent Michael Kallback said “I took them to Trönö to play there for the rest of the season, and then they will go on to an Allsvenskan or Superettan side next season”. “They play here just to show themselves to bigger and better clubs, and hopefully they will sign with any of the pro-clubs in Sweden for the next 2012/2013 season” he added.
About Trönö IK
Trönö IK is a Swedish football club located in Trönödal in Hälsingland. Since their formation, Trönö IK has participated mainly in the middle and lower divisions of the Swedish football league system.
The club currently plays in Division 3 Södra Norrland which is the fifth tier of Swedish football. They play their home matches at the Trönö IP in Trönödal and are also affiliated to Hälsinglands Fotbollförbund.
Gambia in All Africa Games as it is declared open
September 4th 2011 There was no lack of representation from The Gambia as the 10th All Africa Games got underway on Saturday with a colourful opening ceremony at the Zimpeto National Stadium in Maputo, Mozambique.
Thousands of Mozambicans queued outside the stadium earlier in the day in the hope of catching a glimpse of the showpiece.
Their hopes of being part of the momentous occasion were soon dashed as only a chosen few received complimentary tickets.
According to government officials, they had given out 42 000 free tickets but patches of empty seats were evident during the ceremony.
The privileged few were entertained inside the stadium with traditional Mozambican music and dance.
No time was wasted introducing the competing nations with South Africa’s more than 200 athletes entering the stadium behind Algeria.
Of the 48 countries participating including The Gambia, only 37 made the lap of honour with Africa’s youngest country, South Sudan, being absent from the festivities.
According to reports, The Gambia National Sports Council sent five sporting associations for it to represent at the All-Africa games. The sporting associations which are namely, Gambia Lawn Tennis Association, the Gambia Athletics Association, the Gambia Boxing Association, the Gambia Beach Volleyball Association and the Gambia Cycling Association.
Key to Gambia’s representation and the person tipped by the Athletics Association and Gambians that she’s going to bring glory to the nation especially after The Gambia was defeated by Namibia yesterday in Windhoek by a goal to nil is the Gambia’s new track queen Nusrat Ceesay.
Nusrat used the popular networking site Facebook to say “I’m very excited to run for Gambia, our team will do our best to make Gambia proud” the confident Nusrat Ceesau said.
After the introduction and line-up of all the teams on the football pitch, Mozambican President Armando Guebuza made a brief appearance and declared the multi-sport event open.
Guebuza welcomed the visitors to the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” and, without warning, fireworks erupted around the stadium signalling the start of the choreographed show.
To the sound of African drums, dancers tirelessly depicted the story of Africa before colonialism, during colonialism and after liberation.
The finale illustrated the successes of a post-colonialist continent and a united Africa.
More than 5000 athletes were set to converge on the Mozambican capital over the next two weeks.
Maputo will play host to 24 different sports codes at 16 venues across the city.
In today’s events, the Gambian Lawn Tennis association will take part as well as the Gambia Boxing Association. The Cycling event will start tomorrow, followed by Volley ball the next day whilst Athletics doesn’t take place till September 11th,
In the Games’ ten-year history, South Africa have won it twice and Egypt five times, while Nigeria and Tunisia have each won it once.
Slim chances for Gambia in AFCON
Scorpions lost by lone goal
September 3rd 2011 The Brave Warriors of Namibia put up a spirited performance in the second half in their 1-0 win over Gambia in Windhoek on Saturday.
The Scorpions dominated the first half but failed to create chances in front of goal. The Namibians who were playing catch up for most of the 45 minutes had just one real chance when Rudolf Bester’s shot on goal was saved by net minder, Pa Dembo Toury in the 15th minute.
With the Scorpions setting the pace for the remainder of the first half, the Namibians found it hard to penetrate the Gambian defence. The halftime score was 0-0.
A rejuvenated Brave Warriors side returned after the break. In the 55th minute, Bester managed to beat Pa Dembo but shot the ball just wide. The Namibians then created more chances through Bester, Tangeni Shipahu and Eslin Kamuhanga who was replaced by Heini Isaacs in the 77th minute.
Earlier in the second half coach Brian Isaacs had replaced Willy Stephanus with Petrus Shitembi in the 58th minute. Sidney Urikhob substituted Junior Gebhart in the 80th minute.
In the 83rd minute, birthday boy, Shipahu got hold of a stray ball on the counter attack, dribbled to the goal and shot the ball past the goalkeeper and into the right corner of the net putting the home side ahead.
After the goal, the Gambians started attacking with a sense of urgency through wing wizard Sanna Nyassi and Mustapha Toubabo Jarju, but the Namibian defence that was led by captain, Ronald Ketijere managed to contain them until the final whistle.
Namibian coach Brain Isaacs was happy with the result which according to him restored pride and trust from the nation in the national team.
“Yes of course we are all are happy that we have won today. It was important for us to win this match and we did. People we starting to get irritated with how our national team performs and so it was only fitting that we capped off a rather disappointing AFCON 2012 qualifiers with a victory in front of our passionate home crowd.”
On his part, Paul Put expressed his disappointment with his team’s display.
“I’m so disssapointed with the results and how the team played today. We needed to win this match but we couldn't do it and now our destiny is not in our hands anymore. Secondly, I believe my players today did not reach their levels of potential and this cost us the game. We should have played better than this”, said Put after the match.
The result gave Namibia their first points in their last match of the AFCON 2012 qualifier. Burkina Faso lead the group with nine points while Gambia are tied with Namibia on three points with Burkina Faso travelling to Gambia next month for the final game of the qualifiers.
“Do or die tie for us”, Toubabo says
Toubabo has issued rallying call to Scorpions team mates
September 1st 2011 Gambian midfield kingpin Mustapha “Toubabo”Jarju believes The Gambia’s Group F 2012 Orange African Cup of Nations qualifier encounter away to Namibia is nothing short of a do or die mission.
The Vancouver Whitecaps attacker, Toubabo, is hoping to help The Scorpions to victory in Windhoek and keep its Gabon and Equatorial Guinea’s dream alive. Scorpions coach Paul Put, did not have the full squad when they arrived in Windhoek on Tuesday but Toubabo was still upbeat ahead of the weekend’s match.
Toubabo is full of confident ahead of the Namibia tie as the game is very vital for The Gambia because a win will do as it will be crucial before they take on Burkina Faso in a qualification decider next month at the Independence stadium in Bakau.
“We are playing away from home and against a country that will surely play a big role on who tops Group F and goes through, this is very significant and we are taking it seriously. We also know that we cannot lay back and hope for miracles, we need to do our best and get the win here [in Namibia]. But it won’t be that easy, this is a do or die encounter for us” Mustapha Toubabo Jarju was quoted as saying in an interview with Caf Online.
The Gambia has never qualified for an Africa Cup of Nations or a World Cup final and The Scorpions are eyeing for its first berth at Africa’s top tournament. It’s a most important qualifier this time round as The Gambia are ready to give it all they could in order to make their presence felt in the AFCONS and the current Scorpions are looking to write history for themselves as it will be a national record for all that partake in the process.
Toubabo is very confident that The Gambia can make it this time around and said “The AFCON is the major football tournament in Africa and everyone wants to play in the finals. Because of various issue such as the distance of travelling across Africa to play and the level of preparations, it is not easy to always make it hence it is very important for us to make the people of The Gambia happy by taking our country to the next finals”.
“It will be an honour for all the players to achieve this milestone and everyone is focused on writing history for our nation. But first we have to tackle Namibia so that when we take on Burkina Faso at home next month, it is do or die mission all over again” Toubabo buttressed.
Toubabo doesn’t think it will be an easy task for The Gambia to have an easy ride over Namibia but knows what’s at stake and will do all it takes to get the desired result because as he said “they are professional players”.
The Scorpions who had a convincing three-nil victory over the Leopards of DR Congo last month resulting to its Coach Robert Nouzaret been sacked are hoping to replicate that performance against the young Brave Warriors of Namibia come this Saturday. For the man who skippered the side and lead the team to victory against DR Congo, it’s a stepping stone for them as it’s a source of motivation for the game against Namibia. It was a worthwhile preparation for this game against Namibia and Toubabo hopes, it pays off on Saturday.
The Scorpions now have all the players in camp with Paul Put and they’re all confident and in a positive mood ahead of the tie.
“Come Saturday, we can all work hard for each other and for the three vital points for our cause. We have to win and are really looking forward to the match” Toubabo concluded.
T-Boy happy with Kazma contract
August 29th 2011 Gambian international defender and a centerpiece in Paul Put’s defensive line-up, Abdou Jammeh also known as T-Boy who left the shores of The Gambia barely 3 weeks ago has signed a contract with Kuwaiti Premier League side, Kazma Sporting Club, Gambia Sports Online can understand.
Abdou Jammeh left the shores of The Gambia after the Scorpions three-nil victory win over the Leopards of DR Congo on August 10th for a trial to the Asian outfit. T-Boy impressed his employers after under-going a short and brief trial at Kazma.
T-Boy decided not to stay idle as the closure of the 2010/2011 GFA League Championship ended weeks ago and also the FA Cup as his former local side Steve Biko were booted out by Gambia Ports Authority.
Gambia Sports Online understands that Abdou Jammeh inked a one-year six months contract at the orange and blue outfit.
Confirming the story, the rocky center-back posted on the social networking site, facebook and is quoted as saying “Alhamdulillah, I want to take this opportunity to thank my family, friends, fans and all those involved in one way or another towards my career. Completed my signing tonight in Kuwait [with KAZMA SPORTING CLUB] 24hrs before joining my team-mates {Scorpions} in Namibia. Many thanks to Omar Ceesay, Kemo Ceesay and Steve Biko FC (his former club). Alhamdulillah and many thanks to Allah”, the statement ends.
Abdou Jammeh started his youth playing for local clubs in Bakau.
He turned professional in 2005 playing with Tunisian outfit ES Zarzis.
He moved to Torpedo Moscow in the Russian First Division in early 2008, following the relegation of his previous side FC Tekstilshchik-Telekom Ivanovo to the Russian Second Division.
T-Boy also had a short stint at S.K Lierse in Belgium and Doxa Katokopia in Cyprus before returning home to play for Steve Biko for the remainder of the 2010/2011 GFA league season.
He has been capped 15 times by the Gambia and is included in the squad to face Namibia 3rd September in Windhoek in the penultimate round of qualifiers for the 2012 African Nations Cup.
Suwaibou Sanneh bow out of Championship in Daegu
Suwaibou Sanneh
August 29th 2011 One of the top-seeded athletes that The Gambia Athletics Association (G.A.A) sent to compete for The Gambia at the 2011 World Championships Athletics currently underway in Daegu, South Korea has the bowed out during the heats of the competition.
Twenty-year old Suwaibou Sanneh who was tipped to bring glory to the nation as his personal best time was 10.43 seconds, achieved at the 2008 African Championships in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia has been eliminated by top World athletes, the likes of Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake, Jay Suma Saidy Ndure, just to name a few.
Suwaibou, who was given a by into the heats, ran below his personal best which was 10.43 as he failed to make it beyond the heats. Out of 55 athletes for the 100m race in the heats, Suwaibou came out 30th running 10.50s.
The Gambia’s hopes now are now vested in Fanny Shonobi for the 200m female race who will be making her debut in the World championships. Shonobi ran a personal best of 25.11s in 2010 but is yet to compete as her event does not start till 2nd of September.
She will be competing alongside the defending world champion Allyson Felix and reigning Olympic champion Veronica Campbell-Brown who were the principal contenders, although both were aiming for sprint doubles of 200/400 m and 100/200 m, respectively. Shalonda Solomon was the world-leader before the championships with her run of 22.15 seconds which made her the 2011 US champion. Other contenders included Carmelita Jeter, who was second in the rankings, and Jeneba Tarmoh (the fourth American runner) who was ranked fifth.
Abdou Jammeh trials in Kuwait
August 25th 2011 Twenty-five year old Scorpion defender Abdou Jammeh alias T-Boy is currently undergoing trials with a Kuwaiti Premier League team, Kazma Sporting Club, Gam Sports Online can reliably reveal.
Abdou Jammeh left the shores of The Gambia after the Scorpions three-nil victory win over the Leopards of DR Congo on the 10th of August and after the conclusion of the GFA premier league with Steve Biko.
Abdou Jammeh started his youth career at Young Tigers FC of Bakau and Zebra FC. He turned professional in 2005 playing with Tunisian outfit ES Zarzis. He played for FC Torpedo Moscow in the Russian First Division in early 2008, following the relegation of his previous side FC Tekstilshchik-Telekom Ivanovo to the Russian Second Division. T-Boy also had a short stint at S.K Lierse and Doxa Katokopia before coming back home to play for Steve Biko for the remainder of the 2010/2011 GFA league season.
T-Boy, who have had 15 caps already to his name has been very helpful to the Gambia’s back four as he is always on Coach Paul Put’s books. There are doubts that he might not be able to come for the game against Namibia as he will be looking to impress during his trial and sign a contract.
About Kazma FC
Kazma Sporting Club is a Kuwaiti football club founded in 1964. Kazma play in Al-Sadaqua Walsalam Stadium which is located in Al Asimah, Adiliya and is the 3rd largest stadium in Kuwait. On 21 December 2009, they played a friendly match against reigning La Liga champions and defending UEFA Champions league winners FC Barcelona to commemorate the 45th anniversary of the club. The match ended with 1–1 draw and Barcelona received €1.7 million to participate in the match.
The club have won many accolades and have won the following: The Kuwaiti Premier League: 4 times, Kuwait Emir Cup: 7 times, Kuwait Crown Cup: once. Al Khurafi Cup: twice, Al Hasawy Super Cup: once, Gulf Club Champions Cup: twice and were also Runners-up twice in1988 to Al-Ettifaq and 1997 to Al Nassr FC. They’ve also won the Kuwaiti Division One once and runner up in the Kuwait Super Cup this year.
GFA’s Terema Dahaba speaks out on Tijan’s case
August 24th 2011 In the unlikely event that you haven’t heard…well, Gambia Sports Online had the unpleasant duty on Monday night of breaking the sad story of Tijan Jaiteh being effectively sacked by Randers for what the Danish second division club said was a ‘breach of contract’ by the Gambian midfielder who was on loan from the Norwegian top-tier side ad former champions Brann Bergen.
Randers apparently incensed that since Tijan left to play for the Gambia in a friendly international against DR Congo on August the 10th he hasn’t returned. Contacting Tijan to hear his side of the story has so far proved futile as no one seems to have a working number for him but whatever happens ultimately we reckon the Gambia Football Association would be involved somehow since it was for the Gambia that Tijan supposedly had permission to travel to Banjul.
GFA president Seedy Kinteh isn’t available to answer our questions on this matter but the man he’s put in charge of relations between international players and the GFA has offered himself. Gambia Sports Online had an exclusive interview with the GFA national team administrator, Terema Dahaba on how he received news of the termination of Tijan’s contract by Randers in the wake of his trip to Banjul to play against DR Congo.
Terema started by saying “It’s a very shocking news and he didn’t even want to talk on the matter because someone [Tijan] we all admire and love is losing his job and when the coach informed him about the news, he sent emails to Tijan but all his emails prove futile as no replies were given to him”.
According to Randers [Tijan’s former team], the former Gambia U-17, U-20 and Gambia Ports Authority defensive midfielder problems started apparently with his decision to come and play for The Gambia last week in which Tijan had a reputable record as he was the first to open the scoring with a wonderful bicycle kick but has since not returned back to the club and Dahaba was asked, what’s the normal routine in terms of inviting players to come and play for The Gambia?
Terema buttressed on it saying “We [GFA] send invitations to all the federations of where the invited players are, for onward transmission to their clubs and then copy the same invitation to all the invited players to show and give to their clubs earlier because they [the clubs] normally receive the invitation late from the federation. Sometimes, teams respond writing, they are not willing to let their players represent their country for one reason or another because even in this case, some players didn’t come because the clubs say they had important games coming up and that we should allow them to come days later than we requested”.
When asked what arrangements were made for them to come for the game against DR Congo, he said “The players were requested to come on the 4th August and then depart on the 11th August as that was written in their invitation to send to the clubs. After our fourth invitation, most of the technical directors and club managers had to respond that they have matches on the 5th and 6th of August and that they appealed that they boys will be released on the 7th. But as for Tijan, he insisted that he wanted to come earlier than that and his ticket should be sent to him earlier because he wanted to come on the 2nd and not even on the 4th, trials were made but not successful but later he came on the 4th. He came on the 4th but started training on his own until when we got to the camp and while in camp, he requested that he wants his return ticket to be extended from 11th to 14th, not only that but doesn’t want to go directly back to Copenhagen, Denmark but wants to go to Milan, Italy and it was a tough decision for me [Terema] because I don’t have money to allocate him that but he [Tijan] struggled to contacted several officials in the Ministry of Youths and Sports and he was successful in getting what he [wanted]. I never knew that this was what he was going to do because there was no hint from him and that he thinks that Tijan is going for a holiday there or a stopover”.
Terema added that he normally communicate with the boys through email but a times some of them will call him or he returns the favor but as for Tijan, he’s not been able to communicate with him since he left and that he has changed his contact numbers in Denmark but has sent emails and is hopeful that a reply from Tijan might come before the end of the day.
As for Dahaba, when the case gets to world governing body, FIFA, they will contact them [GFA] and ask what went wrong and that the GFA will always stand in for the players no matter what it takes because according to him “they are our players and we are going to appeal to see that he’s through this even though maybe he might need legal representation but we [GFA] will foresee that”.
“It is unfortunate because we have never fallen into such a scenario before, so maybe Tijan do not understand the implications of what he has done but I want people to understand that these are small boys and they might not know exactly what they are doing, but I’m sorry that this happened” Dahaba asserted.
Jaiteh, who is on a season-long loan from former Norwegian champions Brann Bergen until the end of the year had his contract terminated by Randers on Monday for what the club called his “blatant breach of contract”. His agent Stig Lillejord also revealed that he is no longer interested in representing the former Gambia Ports Authority midfielder. So Terema Dahaba was finally asked what advice he will have for a Gambian player that comes to him and tell him that he is going to Denmark to play because Denmark seems to be hell for our Gambian players as they do not surface well out there or even if they surface, they don’t have a better ending there, say for example Brondby with Ousman Jallow, also Njogu Demba Nyrén with OB Odense.
He was quick to add “That’s generally about their career because before you get into anything you should know what it is about and that’s where agents come in to play because they play a very vital role in deciding for the player in what’s good for them or not and also in giving sound advice. Also, some of these players, they do not even have agents and they sometimes put their career into jeopardy” Dahaba concluded.
Gambia drops down in new FIFA ranking
The Scorpions have dropped down in FIFA
August 24th 2011 As the Scorpions prepare to face Namibia in Windhoek in the weekend of 2nd, 3rd and 4th of September, The Gambia has jumped down to seven places in the latest world ranking released by FIFA, world football’s governing body, on Wednesday.
Coach Paul Put’s charges were ranked in within the range of 100-105 but have now down-rocketed down to seven places after being ranked 100th on July in the world and 27th in Africa and after playing some friendly international competitive games with Gabon and of recent in this month against the Leopards of DR Congo which will count in the next rankings, Gambia has dropped off both in the FIFA and Continental ranking.
Having played a friendly against DR Congo approximately 2 weeks [10th August to be precise], The Gambia now lies 107 in the world with 306 points, down-rocketing seventh places and 2 places down the continental ranking lying 29 behind Niger who are 28.
Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) is still Africa’s giants as they top the continental ranking with Ghana and Egypt following suit. Fellow group-mates Burkina Faso are 40th in the world and 5th in Africa whilst Namibia is 143rd in the world and 38th in the Africa.
In the world, Spain has also been shuffled off by Netherlands who are the world’s best now followed by Spain and Germany.
The next FIFA world ranking release will be on September 21st after The Gambia have played Namibia in the African Cup of Nations qualifier.
Carayol’s goal secures win for Bristol
Carayol's goal helps Rovers
August 24th 2011 Gambian-born flying winger, Mustapha Carayol and his English League two side, Bristol Rovers are off to a winning start in one of England’s most elite competitions, the Carling Cup after running out 4-2 penalty shoot-out winners against Championship side Watford in the first round of the competition.
Marvin Sordell set the Hornet`s [Watford] off in positive fashion with an early tap-in before Rovers levelled up with a scorcher from Matt Harrold. Penalties saw skipper John Eustace miss the 'Orns first effort before veteran Scott McGleish put wide, however super sub Gambian, Mustapha Carayol secured victory for the League Two outfit.
Sean Dyche made just three changes with Rene Gilmartin replacing Scott Loach in goal; David Mirfin coming in for a debut in place of Martin Taylor and Josh Walker making his Hornet`s bow a year after signing in place of Ross Jenkins.
Bristol Rovers on the other hand stuck with the same 11 that drew against Macclesfield at the weekend.
Watford took the lead inside the first two minutes when Marvin Sordell converted from close range. Walker found Craig Forsyth who centred for the England U20 cap to tap home from close-range to open his account for the 2011/12 season.
The Hornet`s lead was short-lived though as the hosts levelled three minutes later when former Southend and Wycombe forward Matt Harrold struck from 20 yards to leave stand-in 'keeper Gilmartin with no chance, registering his third of the season.
Dyche`s men were on top for much of the first period with Troy Deeney missing a hatful of chances and Walker also coming close when he smashed ferociously against the Gas`[Bristol Rovers] crossbar.
Skipper John Eustace troubled Bevan early on in the second period with a tame drive from distance which the lanky 'keeper made a hash of pushing round the post.
Mustapha Carayol was later introduced into the game, and with his first touch of the ball, he nearly scored just 30 yards from goal but Watford’s net-minder Loach was there to punch it out for a corner.
However, despite Doyley`s best efforts, Watford were forced to play another 30 minutes by the way of extra time.
With just seven minutes to go, Rovers came within inches of scoring but Aidy Mariappa was on hand to block on the line. Midfielder Wayne Brown followed that up with a free-kick which Gilmartin played safe in palming away for a corner.
Watford failed to break down the resolute Rovers rearguard and so penalties decided the game.
Delighted Rovers boss Paul Buckle admitted that Mustapha Carayol had disobeyed instructions when netting the winning penalty in the shoot-out.
"I told him on no account to check his run up before shooting, but he did exactly that and scored so what do I know?" he said.
"I thought we deserved to win. It was a fantastic effort from all our players, especially as we lost Cian Bolger, Matt Harrold and Chris Zebroski through injury.
"They are three big players for us. Bolger's injury is the worst of the three, but we'll have to wait to see whether any of them will be fit for Saturday.
"We now go to Leyton Orient in the second round and will approach that game with plenty of confidence. This is starting to look like my team and I saw a lot to please me tonight."
Goalkeeper Scott Bevan was Rovers' hero, saving two shoot-out penalties from John Eustace and Carl Dickinson.
Apart from Carayol, Jo Kuffor, Adam Virgo and Wayne Brown netted penalties for Rovers, while Sordell and Adrian Mariappa were Watford's shoot-out scorers.
Dawda Bah’s HJK sinks RoPS
On the way do winning the Finnish league again
August 23rd 2011 Gambian Dawda Bah and his Helsingin Jalkapalloklubi [HJK Helsinki] club have increased their lead in the Veikkausliiga summit as they romped RoPS by a thrilling five goals without reply with Dawda Bah only watching from the bench.
The defending Veikkausliiga champions [HJK] didn’t have mercy on the bottom placed team RoPS as they thumped them by a thrilling 5 goals to nil with braces from Zeneli and Pelvas and a goal from Parikka thus, sinking the toothless RoPS. A win would go far in helping RoPS avoid relegation this season.
HJK are in first place in the standings and hold an eleven point lead over second place Inter Turku. They [HJK] went for a win to hold on to their Champions League qualifier spot.
They play FC Haka next but before then they have a battle to settle on Thursday against Schalke 04 in Europa League action, so the quick turnaround on Sunday's game meant a change in their lineup as they rested their first team players including Dawda Bah.
Meanwhile, yesterday, Demba Savage’s FC Honka played out a 2-all-draw against Jaro. The visiting team [Honka] twice came from behind to level matters. Honka’s leading goal scorer, Demba Savage wasn’t even on the subs bench. They now lie 5th with 29 points and 21 games played.
Wrap: Gambians in Superettan
Mohammed Mbye, the only Gambian to win
August 22nd 2011 Over the weekend in the Swedish Superettan [second tier], Gambians were aplenty in action as their teams were playing. Some Gambians featured whilst others were bench-warmers, others didn’t even make it to the subs bench.
We start at the Värendsvallen where Gambian internationals Saihou Jagne and Aziz Corr Nyang’s IF Brommapojkarna travelled to Växjö to play Östers IF.
Saihou Jagne and Aziz Corr Nyang’s Brommapojkarna haven’t been having it good of recent as they have collected only four points in their last seven matches out of a possible 21.
They lost by two-goals-to-nil away to Östers IF marking their fourth loss in five games.
The away team opened the goal scoring account in the 70th minute just when Saihou Jagne was introduced in the game through Freddy Söderberg following a Kristopher Nordfeldt poor clearance. Brommapojkarna had a very good chance after the goal to level the scores but Nicklas Carlsson shot inside the penalty area went just over the bar.
Two minutes later, the home team buried the day when Serbian mid-fielder Dennis Velic met one-on-one with Nordfeldt and dribbled past him to nicely slot the ball at the back of the net. Saihou’s compatriot, Aziz Corr Nyang wasn’t even on the subs bench. After the game, Brommapojkarna’s coach, Roberth Bjerknesjö commented “We did the same pale efforts against Värnamo on Monday. We do not follow our intentions and turn to long balls which does not work for us. We are very much disappointed and we must find out strength and start winning” gutted Roberth said. Saihou and Aziz’s Brommapojkarna now lie 10th with 28 points accumulated.
At the Södertälje football arena, Gambian defender Mohammed Mbye and his Assyriska team have started finding their strength as they ran out 3-2 winners over Brage. Goals from Mikael Thorstensson and a brace from 18-year-old striker Mikael Ishak was enough to get the much earned win for Assyriska. Mohammed Mbye was featured and he saw the whole 90. The visiting team got consolations from Alexander Faltsetas and Jesper Carlsson. Mbye’s Assyriska are now with 30 points, lying 8th with 21 games played.
Meanwhile, a place below the Superettan, in Division 1, striker Alagie Sosseh’s IK Sirius quest to gain promotion to the Superettan, they played out a goalless draw in a visit to Frej. Alagie wasn’t featured as he wasn’t even in the subs bench. They now lie 4th, 2 points behind league leaders Vasby United.
Mansally ejected as Revs draw with New York
Kenny sent-off
August 21st 2011 Gambian international Abdoulie Kenny Mansally have been shown his matching orders yesterday due to an elbow he made to an opponent as his team [New England Revolution] played New York Red Bulls at the Gillette Stadium in a game which Sainey Nyassi did not play due to an injury.
Milton Caraglio and Dane Richards each scored twice as the New England Revolution and New York Red Bulls shared the spoils in a 2-2 draw.
Caraglio opened his MLS account after a quarter of an hour by converting his own rebound off a Bouna Coundoul save, then added his second goal eight minutes before halftime by heading home a Kenny Mansally free kick. Richards reduced the deficit by slotting home Tim Ream's long feed on a breakaway after 53 minutes before Mansally (55th minute) and Teemu Tainio (69th minute) were both dismissed for second yellow cards.
Richards grabbed the equalizer with three minutes to play as he thumped home Joel Lindpere's near post cross to grab a point, but New York saw their winless run in Foxborough extended to 14 matches (0-10-4).
New England started brightly against a listless New York side and sustained that effort through one of their best first-half performances of the season.
Caraglio nearly opened his account in the fifth minute after nodding a cross from Kenny Mansally down in front of the goal, but the shot bounced over the crossbar. The Argentine striker made amends 10 minutes later with a bullish run to convert his first MLS goal. Benny Feilhaber slotted Caraglio into the middle of the park. Caraglio bowled through three Red Bulls defenders before collecting his own rebound and tucking home at the second time of asking.
Caraglio doubled his haul eight minutes before halftime to punish Rafa Marquez's inability to convert his header two minutes earlier. New York found themselves exposed on a set piece for a 13th time this season, and on this occasion, Caraglio was able to coolly head home Mansally's service at the back post to notch a brace.
New York thought they had won a penalty on the stroke of halftime when referee Juan Guzman appeared to award a penalty after stand-in goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth hauled down Dax McCarty in the box, but Guzman consulted with assistant referee Fabio Tovar before surprisingly deciding to book McCarty for simulation instead.
Richards ultimately pulled the Red Bulls within a goal eight minutes after play resumed. Tim Ream caught the Revs' high line out with a culture feed and sent Richards racing through on a breakaway. Richards thumped home at the near post to notch his fourth goal of the season.
Kenny Mansally plunged the match into further chaos when he earned his second yellow card for a wayward elbow after 55 minutes. New York pushed numbers further forward and asserted control over the match for the following 10 minutes or so, but Tainio eliminated the Red Bulls' numerical advantage in the 69th minute by hacking Shalrie Joseph down from behind to pick up his second yellow.
Both sides saw penalty appeals waved away — Ryan Cochrane used his shoulder to bump McCarty to the ground, while Ream caught Caraglio in the late stages — before Richards salvaged a point with three minutes to play. Lindpere carved out a yard of space on the left flank and drove a low cross for Richards to turn home at the near post to secure the draw.
The Revs next play away to Philadelphia Union on August 28.
An American woman runs for charity in The Gambia
Erin's runs with Gambian kids
Agust 21st 2011 Erin Poirier, an American woman from Halifax ran by monkeys, chickens and snakes. She ran past rice fields as thirsty as she, a wedding party and a funeral. She ran through 42-degree heat, two pairs of melted sneakers, and 424 kilometres of the Gambian countryside, all to raise money for children’s health care and education in The Gambia.
But Poirier will quickly tell you that she didn’t run it alone. Barefoot schoolchildren, her support team, and uniformed soldiers all kept her company for kilometres at a time.
It was "the mamas," though, who always gave her that second wind.
Their bent backs would straighten when she jogged past their fields, one hand would steady the plastic buckets on their heads, and the other would wave Poirier over. When the women started moving their arms and their legs, Poirier realized they were telling her they, too, wanted to run.
"They [Gambia] have lived 65 years in a male-dominated society, maybe they’ve been waiting a really long time for it to be a woman, not for it to be a man," she says. "There were days when I didn’t want to run . . . and there were times when I was really tired and the next 20-minute [rest] stop felt like it was two hours away. But as soon as we saw the mamas in the rice field, all of that would disappear and I would just feel amazing."
Poirier met more children than mamas on her first trip to Gambia, back in 2007. The Halifax woman spent that summer teaching schoolkids about how to prevent the spread of HIV-AIDS and how to protect themselves from malaria, working as a volunteer for the Nova Scotia Gambia Association.
But donations to that charity dropped following the global recession. Without a major jump in donations this year, the group was going to lose its charitable status with Revenue Canada, said Cathy Conrad, the association’s acting executive director, earlier this year.
So Poirier decided she would cross one of Africa’s smallest and poorest countries, from the Gambian border town of Basse Santu Su to the coastal city of Banjul to raise that money. Her goal was $20,000; so far, she’s surpassed that by $14,000. She hopes to raise still more through her blog love4gambia.com.
"Part of staying strong was that I was doing it for an important reason," Poirier says. "I wasn’t doing it to prove that I could run across the country. I was doing it because it helped us raise a lot of money for the kids in the country."
Finding the border from which to start their journey on July 7 proved to be their first hurdle — no one could tell them where it was. Poirier and her team would soon learn why: there was no border office, no guards with guns.
Instead, a farmer dressed in deep purple robes on a motorcycle told them to follow him. He led Poirier, Halifax nurse Ashley Sharpe, and Pa Modou Sarr and Kebba Suso through his farm for about three kilometres. They stopped at a dusty cinderblock left by French soldiers to divide the man’s property and the countries of Gambia and Senegal.
Suso, who works in Gambia for the Nova Scotia Gambia Association and would become like family to Poirier, got out of the support truck and ran with her for the first 13 kilometres. Meanwhile, Sarr started teaching Sharpe to drive the truck through villages crowded with curious faces. Word of their run still had to travel down the road.
And Sharpe still had to get comfortable with a stick shift.
The team settled in to a rhythm in a couple days: pack the car, drink, run, drink, run, eat, drink, and run some more. Every day, Poirier would cover about 25 kilometres, joined sometimes by kids in school uniforms and no shoes. Sharpe’s legs would take her more than 100 kilometres over 17 days; she had never before run more than five kilometres.
A few days in, Poirier celebrated her 31st birthday by running 31 kilometres — a distance she says was significantly further than her usual 25. That day, she missed her husband and her family. She was hot, hungry and tired.
"It was the perfect place to end the run because it was just market stall, market stall, market stall. And then there just wasn’t a market stall and the ocean was right there."
All five took shoes off sweaty feet, and stood, barefoot in the sand, for a moment of silence.
"Then Pa Modou said, ‘Coach, on your order,’ " Poirier said.
She gave it, and they ran together, for the last time, rushing into the warm waves.
Pa Dembo full of confidence ahead of Hacken tie
August 21st 2011 Gambian international net-minder Pa Dembo Touray said he is very optimistic ahead of their tie today in Rambergsvallen in Goteborg against fifth placed team BK Hacken.
Pa Dembo is not afraid of Hacken’s attack with the likes of Mathias Ranégie, Williams, Waris and Maranhao who make up the Hacken’s offensive side. Pa Dembo, who has been sick when he returned back to Sweden after playing for his nation in a friendly game DR Congo here in Banjul is not very much concerned about Hacken’s attack as he is ready to stop them and that he will like to keep a clean sheet as from now.
“I've been sick for two days now so I've started working out since yesterday. But today's training was okay, although I think we need to improve even more tomorrow at the training. It will be a tough match against Hacken’s and then we must be very well prepared. But when we work as a team, we will be able to take the three points from them” Pa Dembo said in an interview ahead of the game today.
Hacken have been one of the most consistent teams of recent both domestic and international as they are the one who knocked out Demba Savage’s Honka in the UEFA Europa League qualifier with their top scorer Mathias Ranégie on top form right now. When asked whether he [Pa Dembo] will change anything in the defence in terms of command and coordination or will just be as usual, he was quick to add, “We will run as usual. But we've seen them in a DVD and even apart from that, we can handle them very well. Besides we will ensure we keep a clean sheet against them because we beat them the last time by a goal to nil”.
Pa Dembo Touray who hasn’t been in contact much of recent with the team was asked about whether he’s been in contact with the team and also what he thinks the team needs to do from now. “No, not really. But we know that we need to collect points, it is the most important thing right now. We simply must start winning again, preferably every game. There is not much point difference between the teams in the table; it’s just a few points that differ. So we should simply start to earn points and we'll fix this”.
Pa Dembo, who was part of Paul Put’s side in a three-nil-romping of DR Congo last week in a game that Pa Dembo had virtually little or no work to do but he [Pa Dembo] says he want to replicate the performance he had against DR Congo inorder to keep a clean sheet in their upcoming games. “It was a pretty good match, actually. Congo had a good team with many good players but we were at home playing wise and won by 3-0, so it felt good. The fine performance is what I will bring to the game against Hacken and keep a clean sheet” Pa Dembo concluded.
Meanwhile, in today’s other Allsvenskan game, Amadou Jawo might have the chance to play against his brother Omar when their teams [Elfsborg and Syrianska] meet and Joe Sise’s Halmstad travel to league leaders Helsingborg.
“Most important season for Sainey”, says Nicol
This season most important to Sainey
August 20th 2011 New England Revolution coach Steve Nicol says the 2011 MLS season is an extremely vital one in the career of Gambian winger and Sanna’s twin brother, Sainey Nyassi since he was signed by the Revolution to a developmental contract as a youth international on Aug. 31, 2007
The 22-year-old Gambian has spent three years in the system with the Revs, notching up 82 league games, and has improved his game each time but Nicol wants him to step up even further this term.
“This is a very important year for Sainey,’’ Nicol is quoted as saying. “The first year, it was like he’s young. The second year, he kind of did some good things. This year, he needs to step up and put it all together, to be honest to he is currently injured”.
“We’ve seen some of the things he’s capable of, but it has to be consistent. If he does that and keeps doing the stuff we know he can do, then, that’s part of his process, growing up and being the player he wants to be [best player in the world].”
Nyassi himself knows that he has to improve his game, especially the mental side, but loved the fact that Nicol was prepared to use young players at all times which in turn will make the Revs a better outfit.
“The difference is, before, we used older guys. But, with Stevie [Nicol], if you’re smart and wise in the game, he doesn’t care if you are young or old, he will use you,” he said.
“We’re getting better, we’re getting pace up top, everywhere, and that’s where we will improve. And, they’re bringing in names these days. I think that will help a lot, in different ways. Hopefully, the fans will come out and that will motivate us more”, injured Sainey Nyassi said.
Sainey who should have come and represent The Gambia in a friendly against DR Congo last Wednesday did not come due to an injury he encountered, though it was said he had travel arrangements, but the flying winger has now undergone some thorough tests with the help of the Revs team doctors and is recuperating well hoping to mark a comeback in coming weeks and will be hoping to represent The Gambia when we play against Namibia in an AFCON qualifier.
Sainey Touray’s goal influential in City Islanders win
August 20th 2011 Despite being a man down for more than 24 minutes, Sainey Touray’s navy blue and white strip side, Harrisburg City Islanders defeated the Los Angeles Blues 3-2 in Friday night’s USL PRO National Division Semifinal at the Skyline Sports Complex. Andrew Welker scored twice for Harrisburg, Chase Harrison made five saves in goal.
Sainey Touray and his Blues counterpart, Oscar Dautt, had plenty to do in the first 10 minutes. Touray turned aside a Peter Byers effort in the third minute, and denied both Byers and Carlos Borja in quick succession in the 10th. Dautt stifled Harrisburg’s Sainey Touray two minutes in and Welker three minutes later.
The Blues got on the scoreboard first. In the 11th minute, midfielder Josh Tudela took a Jonathan DeLeon pass, cut inside from the right, and beat Harrison low with his left foot to make it 1-0.
City Islanders center back Andrew Marshall nearly equalized eight minutes later, pounding a 25-yard free kick that Dautt did well to steer over the crossbar. Dautt then made the save of the night in the 31st minute, stretching to his right to turn away a Brian Ackley volley.
Three minutes later Harrisburg found the tying goal. Sainey Touray fought to keep the play alive on the right side of the penalty area and lofted a ball across the goal, where Welker rose above two Blues defenders to nod it past Dautt to even to score at 1-1.
The City Islanders took the lead in the 39th minute on Welker’s second. A Blues defender headed clear a Harrisburg corner, but the ball went straight to Welker who rifled it high past Dautt for a 2-1 lead.
Los Angeles wasn’t done yet, however. The scrappy visitors bagged their second goal in first-half stoppage time, when Erlys Garcia headed home a Cesar Rivera free kick, sending the teams to the intermission tied 2-2.
Harrisburg found the eventual winning goal early in the second half. In the 52nd minute, Ackley flicked a long ball into the path of midfielder Brian Ombiji, who took a couple of touches before deftly chipping a shot over Dautt for a 3-2 lead.
Tensions began to run high shortly thereafter, with five cautions coming over the ensuing 14 minutes. The last of those, in the 66th minute, resulted in the ejection of City Islanders midfielder Jason Pelletier, who had already been cautioned in the 62nd minute.
Harrison preserved the lead in the 69th minute when he denied Rivera at the near post, and got some help from veteran midfielder David Schofield in the 74th minute. L.A. midfielder DeLeon, who had assisted on Tudela’s first-half goal, nearly found one of his own with a header off a corner kick, but Schofield was planted at the far post to clear it away.
Welker nearly sealed his hat trick in the 78th minute when he forced a turnover and rounded Dautt, but he couldn’t quite steer his shot into the empty net. It would only have been icing on the cake, though, as the City Islanders moved on with the 3-2 win.
Harrisburg will travel to Rochester next Friday night to face the Rhinos in the National Division Final at Sahlen’s Stadium.
Whitecaps demand Toubabo to man up
Whitecaps seek consistency Toubabo
August 19th 2011
Gambian international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju hasn’t given Vancouver Whitecaps fans a wow moment yet, but they’re still giving him time to settle as Whitecaps coach Tom Soehn said the club’s second designated player, who made his Major League Soccer debut on July 20th still needs to get used to his new teammates and improve his level of fitness.
The 25-year-old Gambian international striker scored 43 goals in 118 appearances for his former and now Ibou Sawaneh’s Belgian side RAEC Mons the past three seasons, an impressive strike rate that caused Vancouver to come calling for him.
“He has been in and out,” Soehn was quoted as saying on Thursday. “What we need is consistent time to get him acquainted with the guys and understand how we want him to play.”
But no one promised instant dividends on the investment, as Toubabo hadn’t played a competitive match for about six weeks before joining the Whitecaps in mid-July.
His best chance came early in his first MLS game when he sent a hard strike just over the San Jose Earthquakes’ crossbar. Toubabo got a couple of shots away in the subsequent 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy before he left the Whitecaps to join the Scorpions of The Gambia for a 3-0 thumping over DR Congo in a game in which he was the skipper and most arguably man of the match.
He rejoined the Whitecaps in Washington last week, arriving from The Gambia too late to train with the club Friday but he played the final 19 minutes of a 4-0 loss to D.C. United.
Toubabo’s stats with Vancouver so far read: three appearances, 139 minutes played, four shots, no goals and no assists as Gambia Sports Online can learn.
“I’ve had chances and missed, but I think I’ll be there very soon,” Toubabo said after training on Thursday.
He played the whole 90 minutes in an average weather of 28 degrees Celsius heat during Gambia’s friendly with DR Congo and feels he’s ready to do the same in MLS. But Soehn said he needs more time.
“He’s getting there but we still have work to do,” he said. “It’s a little bit of everything. His fitness, his sharpness and getting acquainted with his teammates.”
Despite Toubabo’s limited time with the club, Soehn said it’s obvious Jarju has a good soccer IQ and links up well with other players.
“But we have to work on his finishing. That will come when he’s fit and sharp.”
Toubabo isn’t thrilled with that assessment but appreciates the sentiment.
“He’s the boss and if he feels I’m not there yet, I’ll keep working hard until he says I’m ready,” he said.
Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju doesn’t expect to be away for any of the Whitecaps’ 10 remaining MLS games this season. He might see international duty for The Gambia when we face Namibia in approximately two-week time in which it will be a break between Whitecaps MLS games against Houston and New York but that shouldn’t cause him to miss any Whitecaps matches.
Gambian international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju hasn’t given Vancouver Whitecaps fans a wow moment yet, but they’re still giving him time to settle as Whitecaps coach Tom Soehn said the club’s second designated player, who made his Major League Soccer debut on July 20th still needs to get used to his new teammates and improve his level of fitness.
The 25-year-old Gambian international striker scored 43 goals in 118 appearances for his former and now Ibou Sawaneh’s Belgian side RAEC Mons the past three seasons, an impressive strike rate that caused Vancouver to come calling for him.
“He has been in and out,” Soehn was quoted as saying on Thursday. “What we need is consistent time to get him acquainted with the guys and understand how we want him to play.”
But no one promised instant dividends on the investment, as Toubabo hadn’t played a competitive match for about six weeks before joining the Whitecaps in mid-July.
His best chance came early in his first MLS game when he sent a hard strike just over the San Jose Earthquakes’ crossbar. Toubabo got a couple of shots away in the subsequent 4-0 loss to the Los Angeles Galaxy before he left the Whitecaps to join the Scorpions of The Gambia for a 3-0 thumping over DR Congo in a game in which he was the skipper and most arguably man of the match.
He rejoined the Whitecaps in Washington last week, arriving from The Gambia too late to train with the club Friday but he played the final 19 minutes of a 4-0 loss to D.C. United.
Toubabo’s stats with Vancouver so far read: three appearances, 139 minutes played, four shots, no goals and no assists as Gambia Sports Online can learn.
“I’ve had chances and missed, but I think I’ll be there very soon,” Toubabo said after training on Thursday.
He played the whole 90 minutes in an average weather of 28 degrees Celsius heat during Gambia’s friendly with DR Congo and feels he’s ready to do the same in MLS. But Soehn said he needs more time.
“He’s getting there but we still have work to do,” he said. “It’s a little bit of everything. His fitness, his sharpness and getting acquainted with his teammates.”
Despite Toubabo’s limited time with the club, Soehn said it’s obvious Jarju has a good soccer IQ and links up well with other players.
“But we have to work on his finishing. That will come when he’s fit and sharp.”
Toubabo isn’t thrilled with that assessment but appreciates the sentiment.
“He’s the boss and if he feels I’m not there yet, I’ll keep working hard until he says I’m ready,” he said.
Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju doesn’t expect to be away for any of the Whitecaps’ 10 remaining MLS games this season. He might see international duty for The Gambia when we face Namibia in approximately two-week time in which it will be a break between Whitecaps MLS games against Houston and New York but that shouldn’t cause him to miss any Whitecaps matches.
Jabbi yarns Gambia call-up
Athletic Saikou Jabbi wants Gambia call-up
August 17th 2011 Plying his trade in the lower echelons of Spanish football, a Gambian youngster, Saikou Jabbi is looking to nail a place in The Gambia’s youth teams if given the opportunity.
Saikou Jabbi, who is a descendent of Gambia is born to Gambian parents on 2nd August 1993, started plying his trade in Spain when he decided to leave Gambia for better yields in Spain.
The young, lanky and deadly attacker started his career in FC Mataro in the year of 2000, having a 4-year-stint in the club netting in approximately 17 goals in each season while in Mataro. He featured for Mataro’s youth team and also marking his debut for the first team in 2003 where he notched 10 goals with 20 appearances.
Saikou Jabbi decided to call it a quit with Mataro when his father had another job in another city in Spain where he was successful to land a deal at Girona based club Athletic Bisbelenc based in Catalan. He has since been carrying the team’s captaincy since his arrival and has notched in an average goal of 37 last season and 137 since his arrival at the Catalan based outfit.
Saiks as his fondly called had an offer from Parafrugell in 2008, Mohammed Touray Sumareh’s former team but Saiks was quick to turn the offer down as he wanted to play in a club higher than where he is and not below.
Saikou is not planning to leave Bisbalenc anytime soon as he is been monitored right now by Barcelona and Espanyol respectively and will like to impress in upcoming games, so that he can clinch a signature in either Barcelona or Espanyol.
As for the young lad, he’s ready to come and represent his nation anytime if the need arise as he’s looking to notch a place in one of the youth teams. His ambition and quest to win glories for the Gambia has grown so big that Saikou will jump in a plane and fly direct over to come and represent his nation as he will be honored to represent the red,white,blue,white,green nation.
He had this to say when quizzed on what word will he want to give to the Gambia Football Association (GFA), Saiks said “I hope to do my best when I’m called up and I will be coming to have a trial with the team before the competition starts [Under 17 or Under 20]”.
He further went on to add a word or two for his fans saying “I hope to see them all soon, show them what I can do, do great things for them and give them what they want [the cup]”.
ABOUT THE CLUB
Athletic Bisbalenc Football Club is a Catalan based outfit based in the town of La Bisbal d'Empordà, Catalonia, Barcelona.
It was the first club in the town as it was formed in 1922 with the name of d' Unió Esportiva Bisbalenca [Union Sports Bisbalenc]. Later the club was called La Bisbal FC (1929-1932), Bisbalenc Sports Center (1934 to 1936), CD La Bisbal (1942-1957) before finally being name Bisbalenc Athletic Club (1957).
In 2005 it inaugurated the Athletic Sports Foundation Bisbalenc leading management academy.
Futty’s Timbers downed again
Mamadou "Futty" Timbers bound for relegation
August 16th 2011 In a battle of teams namely Mamadou “Futty” Danso’s Portland Timbers and Houston Dynamo just outside the playoff picture, Danso’s Timbers succumbed to a 2-1 defeat at Robertson Stadium.
Just from marking his home debut in The Gambia in last week’s friendly game against the Leopards of DR Congo, Mamadou “Futty” Danso had a long and tiring trip back to USA which forced him not to feature in his team’s defeat.
After quelling early pressure from the visiting Timbers, who tested the Dynamo goal three times in the first seven minutes, the Dynamo took control 17 minutes in on a sterling strike from former Portland Timber Adam Moffat.
Moffat — who came to Houston from Portland on July 21 for Mike Chabala and Lovel Palmer — found the ball at his feet 38 yards away from goal after a Bobby Boswell attempt off a corner was blocked. Moffat wasted no time and hit a screamer that beat Portland goalkeeper Troy Perkins to the upper 90 to give Houston a one-goal lead.
Portland came out of the halftime break with the same energy they showed at the start of the match.
Sal Zizzo started the pressure in the 50th minute, making a nice weaving run through the Dynamo defense and hitting an angled shot that Tally Hall stoned.
Portland pulled within one in the 56th minute when Zizzo — who was dangerous all night — found Darlington Nagbe with a cross at the back post. The rookie set up Jack Jewsbury with a nice header and the Timbers captain hit a hard strike that caught a piece of Houston defender Andre Hainault before heading into the net.
Portland continued to attack, pushing the ball into Houston’s defensive third, but the Timbers could not find the equalizer despite two great chances in the final 10 minutes from Kenny Cooper.
Portland, meanwhile, stays on 26 points and will play at Sporting Kansas City Wednesday night.
City’s 'secret' striker eyes Norwich deal
Norwich keep tabs on Njogu
August 16th 2011 From one city to another, premier League new boys Norwich City also known as The Canaries could snatch trialist Njogu Demba-Nyrén from under the noses of Championship side Birmingham City barely days after he was spotted trialing with City, Gambia Sports Online can reveal.
The Blues have kept the identity of the 6ft 2in Gambia international, who have played nine games for Notts County in League One at the end of last season but is now a free agent, a closely guarded secret.
Blues boss Chris Hughton ordered his staffs to keep the 32-year-old striker's name under wraps after he impressed and scored in a reserve match against Spurs last week but little did he know that the beans were going to be spilled.
The Blues reserves do not play again a league game till next month and Njogu wouldn’t want to wait for that long as he longs to settle in a new team [Premier League] before the closure of the transfer window inorder to show what he’s capable of doing and should he go to Norwich and snub Birmingham, then he might not be making a wrong move as Norwich are in the premier league whilst the latter [Birmingham] in championship.
Njogu was fortunate to Gambia Sports Online has learned that Njogu Demba-Nyrén has told team-mates and fellow trialists in Birmingham that he favours a move to the Premier League new-comers The Canaries.
City are desperate for more firepower in attack, with Cameron Jerome set to be sold with Nikola Zigic and Marlon King currently injured.
The much-travelled Njogu who has had a journey man career played for clubs in Sweden, Greece, Bulgaria and Norway. Gambia Sports Online will like to wish Njogu Demba success in acquiring a club soon.
West Coast Radio reporter finds Himself in New Traffic
Young Journalist Abdoulie Bah
August 16th 2011 Coming from a country that only has a road, river and air as means of transportation, AIPS Young reporter Abdoulie Bah from little Gambia narrates the story of a totally new traffic he finds himself in to International University Sports Federation (FISU).
He starts by saying, first every morning, its seminars focusing on international Sports organization’s and lectures on what it takes to be a good sports journalist. Then right after lunch, everyone heads out for the daily assignments.
Whilst other colleagues spend money on local taxis, some the shuttle buses, I head to my favourite Subway metro station. A few meters walk from our base in the “Shanghai Shenzhen Hotel” to the Long-gang metro line is always fun despite the scorching heat.
The Long-gang line is the start of a 1 hour journey to the main Universiade Village and venues where we hunt for our stories.
But the interesting thing is, the moment I or any of my African colleagues enter the train, Chinese people pull out their cameras scrambling for shots at us. And as if that’s not enough, they view us - like a colleague best described it to me - “specimen in a museum”. It’s fun though.
After four stops, he drops off the metro line from Huaquian Road, to take the connecting metro heading to the Universiade Village. This one takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival at the Universiade station, one could see the exuberant nature of the well planned and structured area called the “Universiade Village” twice the size of a metropolitan town in The Gambia called “Kombo (KMC)”. You are greeted with smiling Chinese faces and fantastic transportation buses criss-crossing every single moment, a stranger certainly needs a map for guidance or easily gets lost in this city of 10 million people [giggles].
Then from the Universiade metro line, he finally heads to bus no. 4 heading to his final destination to find his daily stories after which he takes the same route back to the hotel.
And for the young lad, who was one time winner of the Sports Journalist Award held by the SJAG “This is truly a whole new wonderful experience and adventure for him”.
He starts by saying, first every morning, its seminars focusing on international Sports organization’s and lectures on what it takes to be a good sports journalist. Then right after lunch, everyone heads out for the daily assignments.
Whilst other colleagues spend money on local taxis, some the shuttle buses, I head to my favourite Subway metro station. A few meters walk from our base in the “Shanghai Shenzhen Hotel” to the Long-gang metro line is always fun despite the scorching heat.
The Long-gang line is the start of a 1 hour journey to the main Universiade Village and venues where we hunt for our stories.
But the interesting thing is, the moment I or any of my African colleagues enter the train, Chinese people pull out their cameras scrambling for shots at us. And as if that’s not enough, they view us - like a colleague best described it to me - “specimen in a museum”. It’s fun though.
After four stops, he drops off the metro line from Huaquian Road, to take the connecting metro heading to the Universiade Village. This one takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival at the Universiade station, one could see the exuberant nature of the well planned and structured area called the “Universiade Village” twice the size of a metropolitan town in The Gambia called “Kombo (KMC)”. You are greeted with smiling Chinese faces and fantastic transportation buses criss-crossing every single moment, a stranger certainly needs a map for guidance or easily gets lost in this city of 10 million people [giggles].
Then from the Universiade metro line, he finally heads to bus no. 4 heading to his final destination to find his daily stories after which he takes the same route back to the hotel.
And for the young lad, who was one time winner of the Sports Journalist Award held by the SJAG “This is truly a whole new wonderful experience and adventure for him”.
Bah’s HJK sinks Savage’s Honka
Dawda Bah's HJK increasing lead in Finland
August 15th 2011
Just barely a week when they both played in the same side as in country, Dawda Bah and Gambian team-mate Demba Savage were both suppose off in their respective clubs in Finland but only Demba Savage fared as Dawda Bah misses due to suspension.
The game began with a fast pace with Honka having the upper hand in possession but were unable to make use of the possession dominance.
It took Finnish champions [HJK] only three minutes to open the scoring through a well formed attack between quartet Teemu Pukki, Sebastian Sorsa and Berat Sadik where the latter [Sadik] wasted no time in putting the ball past Honka’s poacher Tomi Maanoja to give his side the one nil lead.
At half an hour, Sebastian Mannström came closer to putting the Helsinki based club the lead after he was chipped the ball by Akseli Pelvas, he driblled past Maanoja as he was out of his penalty area, but Mannström could just watch as his bouncing ball strolled past goal for a goal-kick.
Demba Savage wasn’t able to replicate his fine scoring form and performance as he didn’t mark his name on the score-sheet. He was suppose to do so when he was brought down in the box as he received a pass from Nicholas Otaru but central referee Petteri Kari ruled against him.
But that wasn’t Demba Savage’s last opportunity as he got numerous chances to level for his team but was unfortunate as HJK’s solid defence didn’t give him an inch in triggering shots and also getting closer to goal and it ended 1 nil at half-time.
In the second period, Honka came in with the notion that they must collect a point atleast in the game if not the maximum points. It was not until in the 71st minute that Juusi Vasara struck a very powerful shot 30 meters away from goal but his thunderbolt shot wasn’t able to be fisted out by Ville Wallén to cancel his strike thereby levelling the scores with only 19 minutes to go.
With HJK’s quest to increase their lead tally at the top of the Veikkausliiga, they increased their lead 5 minutes later through Aki Riihilahti who single-handedly put himself to task inorder to score for his team and bury the day. 2-1 it was.
The game later gathered tension at the latter stages as Honka were looking to close up the gap against 4th placed team TPS but were unfortunate to get what they wanted.
Honka’s second half substitute was sent off in the dying minutes of the game following an altercation with midfielder and match winning man Aki Riihilahti. The game ended 2 goals to 1 in favor of the home side.
With this win, HJK now lead the Finnish Veikkausliiga with 51 points, 12 points adrift second placed team Inter Turku and are preparing for the UEFA Cup play off after they were knocked out in the Champions league qualifiers by Dinamo Zagreb and will be playing against German side Schalke 04 this week whilst Demba Savage’s Honka accumulate 27 points with 7th position and preparing to host Abdoulie “Paco” Corr’s VPS.
Just barely a week when they both played in the same side as in country, Dawda Bah and Gambian team-mate Demba Savage were both suppose off in their respective clubs in Finland but only Demba Savage fared as Dawda Bah misses due to suspension.
The game began with a fast pace with Honka having the upper hand in possession but were unable to make use of the possession dominance.
It took Finnish champions [HJK] only three minutes to open the scoring through a well formed attack between quartet Teemu Pukki, Sebastian Sorsa and Berat Sadik where the latter [Sadik] wasted no time in putting the ball past Honka’s poacher Tomi Maanoja to give his side the one nil lead.
At half an hour, Sebastian Mannström came closer to putting the Helsinki based club the lead after he was chipped the ball by Akseli Pelvas, he driblled past Maanoja as he was out of his penalty area, but Mannström could just watch as his bouncing ball strolled past goal for a goal-kick.
Demba Savage wasn’t able to replicate his fine scoring form and performance as he didn’t mark his name on the score-sheet. He was suppose to do so when he was brought down in the box as he received a pass from Nicholas Otaru but central referee Petteri Kari ruled against him.
But that wasn’t Demba Savage’s last opportunity as he got numerous chances to level for his team but was unfortunate as HJK’s solid defence didn’t give him an inch in triggering shots and also getting closer to goal and it ended 1 nil at half-time.
In the second period, Honka came in with the notion that they must collect a point atleast in the game if not the maximum points. It was not until in the 71st minute that Juusi Vasara struck a very powerful shot 30 meters away from goal but his thunderbolt shot wasn’t able to be fisted out by Ville Wallén to cancel his strike thereby levelling the scores with only 19 minutes to go.
With HJK’s quest to increase their lead tally at the top of the Veikkausliiga, they increased their lead 5 minutes later through Aki Riihilahti who single-handedly put himself to task inorder to score for his team and bury the day. 2-1 it was.
The game later gathered tension at the latter stages as Honka were looking to close up the gap against 4th placed team TPS but were unfortunate to get what they wanted.
Honka’s second half substitute was sent off in the dying minutes of the game following an altercation with midfielder and match winning man Aki Riihilahti. The game ended 2 goals to 1 in favor of the home side.
With this win, HJK now lead the Finnish Veikkausliiga with 51 points, 12 points adrift second placed team Inter Turku and are preparing for the UEFA Cup play off after they were knocked out in the Champions league qualifiers by Dinamo Zagreb and will be playing against German side Schalke 04 this week whilst Demba Savage’s Honka accumulate 27 points with 7th position and preparing to host Abdoulie “Paco” Corr’s VPS.
Gambian track queen shines in Loughborough LEAP
Gambian track queen Nusrat Ceesay
August 12th 2011
Gambia’s track starlet and queen Nusrat Ceesay breaked another National record for The Gambia as she took part in the Loughborough LEAP athletics championship and came out with 4th position.
Nusrat, an ex-England champion and Olympian changed her mind to represent The Gambia in a recent visit to The Gambia as she graced the SJAG sports award and is hopeful to be part of Gambia’s team in the upcoming Olympics to be held in London, 2012.
Nusrat, who is part of the Woodford Green Essex Ladies club in London this week ran a remarkable 58.46 seconds finish in a 400 HW (Hurdles) in event “A” with a personal best of 57.13 seconds where she came out 4th out of 6 competing athletes.
Nusrat is quoted as saying “I am really happy, as I know with each race I am getting faster, season only starting for me”.
The Gambian cheetah as she’s fondly call is to fare this coming Saturday in Leuven, Belgium for a race and she won’t do justice if she didn’t praise her fans particularly Gambians. Nusrat added saying “I [will] race in Belgium on Saturday, hoping to go even faster. I am really looking forwards to the Champs and thanks for all the support guys”.
Nusrat Ceesay who pledged her allegiance to The Gambia of late have reportedly approached The Gambia National Olympic Committee (GNOC) and also The Gambia Athletics Association in order for them to ensure that she enhances the change of allegiance in time before the Olympics but it can be revealed that the request for her to change her allegiance have been accepted by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) on 10th June 2011.
Superettan clubs snaps Gambian striker
Pa Dibba plays professional
August 12th 2011
Alieu Jagne’s Swedish Superettan [second tier] club GIF Sundsvall have captured the signature of a Gambian striker by the name Pa Dibba after he had a successful trial at the Norrporten [North Gate] Arena, Gambia Sports Online can reveal.
GIF Sundsvall, chasing promotion for the top tier of Swedish football [Allesvenskan] is pleased to offer the 23-year-old Gambian striker a three-and-half years contract with the first half of the contract being a try-out to the club to see if he measures up.
Dibba, signed from a fifth tier side [Division three Norra], Brandbergen IF is following the footsteps of Aziz Corr Nyang and Saihou Jagne who had successful stints at the Superettan side and Alieu Jagne, who’s currently at the club thereby making Pa the fourth Gambian to join the Superettan side.
After a successful trial and test games with the club’s Under-21 side impressed coaches of Sundsvall thereby not giving them a second thought of telling their employees to offer the young lad a contract.
It was probably one or two coaches who had doubts about the young lad when they saw that they had a Division III player in their practice and test games but Pa Dibba has since gained the coaches’ confidence after scoring in Sundsvall’s game against Landskrona and showing a respectable performance over Alagie Sosseh’s IK Sirius of late though, it ended on a goalless stalemate.
Soren Ericson, assistant coach of Sundsvall squad who also doubles as the Under-21 coach has seen Dibba playing and was all gloomed with smiles when asked to comment on Pa. He said of the lad “Now this was his fourth appearance in the U21. He is very exciting”, says Ericson. He added “We’re happy now that he is our player and we can take care of him, I think there's a lot for him to get there”.
Ericson, who had previously described Dibba as a "viper" reaffirmed that statement by saying “Ha-ha, yes I call him a viper and I still stand by it and to be honest, it would not be a surprise to me because I know he is a wild card to come”.
“We have received tips on him and after that, we have chosen to look at him in our environment and come to know the man in Dibba. He possesses many fine qualities - particularly his pacy speed”, said the club's sporting director, Cain Dotson in a statement.
For his part, Pa Dibba is very happy to be a Sundsvall player and it was his dream to become a professional player and starting at the Superettan side, is a morale booster for him.
When asked to give his reaction on how he feels, Pa said “It has been cool to be from Division III to the Superettan because it is much more professional here. It is obviously a completely different tempo [over here] but, I will try to keep up with the pace and do my best”.
When asked to describe himself as a player, Pa responded by saying “I have explosive first steps, and I can maintain a high speed over long distances. I have good techniques and dangerous in every situation”.
Pa had a long journey in Swedish football after starting in Division VII and making it to the ranks in Division III in only five seasons and it will be a little hard for him to adapt in his new environment but Pa was quick to add “Yes, in terms of friends and teammates, it is a bit painful as I will have to leave them all, but, I'll adapt myself over here. Everyone here has welcomed me and it’s really nice and they all said to me, congratulations”.
Pa has a lot of expectations for this fall as he is longing to earn a call-up in the first team, he said “I will do the best I can, listen to the coaches and see what they want and try to keep the standard. Nevertheless I will allow myself to dream a little about upcoming appearances in Superettan because it would be fun to play in front of the fans, make them smile and have a good day after the game and when I get the chance, I'll definitely take it”. Pa concluded by saying, “I have been feeling good since the first days I came here and Sundsvall is a good club that is professional. The players have responded to me in a very nice way. I will slowly but surely try to break into the team”.
Pa Dibba’s fine goalscoring form was brought to the attention of the Sundsvall management and scouts since last month as they have been long linked with the striker after netting in week in, week out in Scandinavian’s lower league football by surprise and the club [Sundsvall] didn’t hesitate to offer him the opportunity to play at a higher level despite spending much of his time playing semi-professional football.
Pa Dibba, is a 23-yeard-old Gambian-Swedish striker and is 178 cm tall and weighs 67 kg. He had spells with Hammarby J’s youth academy, Farsta J, Enskede J and Brandbergen IF where he was before joining the Superettan side.
Alieu Jagne’s Swedish Superettan [second tier] club GIF Sundsvall have captured the signature of a Gambian striker by the name Pa Dibba after he had a successful trial at the Norrporten [North Gate] Arena, Gambia Sports Online can reveal.
GIF Sundsvall, chasing promotion for the top tier of Swedish football [Allesvenskan] is pleased to offer the 23-year-old Gambian striker a three-and-half years contract with the first half of the contract being a try-out to the club to see if he measures up.
Dibba, signed from a fifth tier side [Division three Norra], Brandbergen IF is following the footsteps of Aziz Corr Nyang and Saihou Jagne who had successful stints at the Superettan side and Alieu Jagne, who’s currently at the club thereby making Pa the fourth Gambian to join the Superettan side.
After a successful trial and test games with the club’s Under-21 side impressed coaches of Sundsvall thereby not giving them a second thought of telling their employees to offer the young lad a contract.
It was probably one or two coaches who had doubts about the young lad when they saw that they had a Division III player in their practice and test games but Pa Dibba has since gained the coaches’ confidence after scoring in Sundsvall’s game against Landskrona and showing a respectable performance over Alagie Sosseh’s IK Sirius of late though, it ended on a goalless stalemate.
Soren Ericson, assistant coach of Sundsvall squad who also doubles as the Under-21 coach has seen Dibba playing and was all gloomed with smiles when asked to comment on Pa. He said of the lad “Now this was his fourth appearance in the U21. He is very exciting”, says Ericson. He added “We’re happy now that he is our player and we can take care of him, I think there's a lot for him to get there”.
Ericson, who had previously described Dibba as a "viper" reaffirmed that statement by saying “Ha-ha, yes I call him a viper and I still stand by it and to be honest, it would not be a surprise to me because I know he is a wild card to come”.
“We have received tips on him and after that, we have chosen to look at him in our environment and come to know the man in Dibba. He possesses many fine qualities - particularly his pacy speed”, said the club's sporting director, Cain Dotson in a statement.
For his part, Pa Dibba is very happy to be a Sundsvall player and it was his dream to become a professional player and starting at the Superettan side, is a morale booster for him.
When asked to give his reaction on how he feels, Pa said “It has been cool to be from Division III to the Superettan because it is much more professional here. It is obviously a completely different tempo [over here] but, I will try to keep up with the pace and do my best”.
When asked to describe himself as a player, Pa responded by saying “I have explosive first steps, and I can maintain a high speed over long distances. I have good techniques and dangerous in every situation”.
Pa had a long journey in Swedish football after starting in Division VII and making it to the ranks in Division III in only five seasons and it will be a little hard for him to adapt in his new environment but Pa was quick to add “Yes, in terms of friends and teammates, it is a bit painful as I will have to leave them all, but, I'll adapt myself over here. Everyone here has welcomed me and it’s really nice and they all said to me, congratulations”.
Pa has a lot of expectations for this fall as he is longing to earn a call-up in the first team, he said “I will do the best I can, listen to the coaches and see what they want and try to keep the standard. Nevertheless I will allow myself to dream a little about upcoming appearances in Superettan because it would be fun to play in front of the fans, make them smile and have a good day after the game and when I get the chance, I'll definitely take it”. Pa concluded by saying, “I have been feeling good since the first days I came here and Sundsvall is a good club that is professional. The players have responded to me in a very nice way. I will slowly but surely try to break into the team”.
Pa Dibba’s fine goalscoring form was brought to the attention of the Sundsvall management and scouts since last month as they have been long linked with the striker after netting in week in, week out in Scandinavian’s lower league football by surprise and the club [Sundsvall] didn’t hesitate to offer him the opportunity to play at a higher level despite spending much of his time playing semi-professional football.
Pa Dibba, is a 23-yeard-old Gambian-Swedish striker and is 178 cm tall and weighs 67 kg. He had spells with Hammarby J’s youth academy, Farsta J, Enskede J and Brandbergen IF where he was before joining the Superettan side.
GAIS hopeful of signing Amadou
Amadou Jawo hopes to leave
August 12th 2011
Amidst recent speculations on the future of Amadou Jawo [Amo] coupled with his unsuccessful stint he’s been having with Swedish Allsvenskan side, IF Elfsborg, it’s revealed that Jawo is touted for a possible transfer to another Allsvenskan side, GAIS, which is one of the oldest football clubs in Sweden.
Jawo is touted as a possible replacement for Brazilian striker Álvaro Santos who left the club this morning to join league leaders Helsingborg IF.
Amadou joined Elfsborg in the summer of 2009 when he left Gefle IF and was one of the most expensive players bought in the history of the club but for the past two years, Jawo has failed to nail a startling role in coach Magnus Haglund’s squad, thus fading Jawo’s career and forcing the 26-year-old to want-away a move from the Borås side.
Many clubs have been linked with Amadou with Helsingborg and Djurgården coming into the picture of late but joining GAIS for Jawo, looks certain. Earlier on, his agent, Jonas Svensson didn’t not want to disclose about his future and also confirm about interests from other clubs but this time around Jonas confirms that there is interest from Göteborg. “I know that GAIS have been in contact with Elfsborg about Jawo and we will have to see what happens” Jonas was quoted as saying.
“GAIS have been doing well this year and it is near here [Borås]. I know about their interest now and before also. We'll see what happens, but the sooner something is clear, the better for me, Jawo told reporters yesterday after training at the Borås Arena.
“A week ago I heard from my agent that it would be about a loan. But I’d rather be sold. I’ve been here for two years now and have not really gained the coach’s [Magnus Haglund’s] confidence. I have to start getting continuity” the Gambian hopeful added.
According to Amadou [Jawo], he has also received interest from two other Allsvenskan clubs, [Djurgården, and Helsingborg] but now, it seems to be the green-black Gothenburg outfit that seems closest of courting his signature.
When contacted to shed light on the matter by the Swedish press, GAIS’s sporting director Mats Persson said of Jawo “He is one of the players we have discussed about and he is on our wanted list for forwards as Santos has left the club. He [Jawo] is strong and fast and he will suit our style of play”. Persson was quick to add, “We exclude the idea of bringing him for loan because we want to buy him and make him our permanent player! If only Jawo want to play in GAIS, then, no problem. The ball is in Jawo’s court because he must decide what he wants. We've talked to Elfsborg and with his agent and he knows that we are interested so should he decide to come to GAIS, then he is welcome.
But his colleague at Elfsborg, Stefan Andreasson, the club’s director, is not as convinced that both clubs will be able to reach an agreement. He said “There is interest [for Jawo], and there is nothing strange about it. But first, of course both clubs have to agree, but for the mean time, there is nothing solid right now”.
Should Amadou Jawo decide to join GAIS, it will not be a wrong decision as they are equivalent with Elfsborg with the amount of trophies scooping 13 trophies and are currently lying 4th in the league with 33 points.
Amidst recent speculations on the future of Amadou Jawo [Amo] coupled with his unsuccessful stint he’s been having with Swedish Allsvenskan side, IF Elfsborg, it’s revealed that Jawo is touted for a possible transfer to another Allsvenskan side, GAIS, which is one of the oldest football clubs in Sweden.
Jawo is touted as a possible replacement for Brazilian striker Álvaro Santos who left the club this morning to join league leaders Helsingborg IF.
Amadou joined Elfsborg in the summer of 2009 when he left Gefle IF and was one of the most expensive players bought in the history of the club but for the past two years, Jawo has failed to nail a startling role in coach Magnus Haglund’s squad, thus fading Jawo’s career and forcing the 26-year-old to want-away a move from the Borås side.
Many clubs have been linked with Amadou with Helsingborg and Djurgården coming into the picture of late but joining GAIS for Jawo, looks certain. Earlier on, his agent, Jonas Svensson didn’t not want to disclose about his future and also confirm about interests from other clubs but this time around Jonas confirms that there is interest from Göteborg. “I know that GAIS have been in contact with Elfsborg about Jawo and we will have to see what happens” Jonas was quoted as saying.
“GAIS have been doing well this year and it is near here [Borås]. I know about their interest now and before also. We'll see what happens, but the sooner something is clear, the better for me, Jawo told reporters yesterday after training at the Borås Arena.
“A week ago I heard from my agent that it would be about a loan. But I’d rather be sold. I’ve been here for two years now and have not really gained the coach’s [Magnus Haglund’s] confidence. I have to start getting continuity” the Gambian hopeful added.
According to Amadou [Jawo], he has also received interest from two other Allsvenskan clubs, [Djurgården, and Helsingborg] but now, it seems to be the green-black Gothenburg outfit that seems closest of courting his signature.
When contacted to shed light on the matter by the Swedish press, GAIS’s sporting director Mats Persson said of Jawo “He is one of the players we have discussed about and he is on our wanted list for forwards as Santos has left the club. He [Jawo] is strong and fast and he will suit our style of play”. Persson was quick to add, “We exclude the idea of bringing him for loan because we want to buy him and make him our permanent player! If only Jawo want to play in GAIS, then, no problem. The ball is in Jawo’s court because he must decide what he wants. We've talked to Elfsborg and with his agent and he knows that we are interested so should he decide to come to GAIS, then he is welcome.
But his colleague at Elfsborg, Stefan Andreasson, the club’s director, is not as convinced that both clubs will be able to reach an agreement. He said “There is interest [for Jawo], and there is nothing strange about it. But first, of course both clubs have to agree, but for the mean time, there is nothing solid right now”.
Should Amadou Jawo decide to join GAIS, it will not be a wrong decision as they are equivalent with Elfsborg with the amount of trophies scooping 13 trophies and are currently lying 4th in the league with 33 points.
Gambia edges past DR Congo
Gambia 3 DR Congo 0
August 11th 2011 The Scorpions of The Gambia have sent a strong warning to its 2012 African Cup of Nation’s qualification opponents [Burkina Faso and Namibia] after a convincing 3 nil thrashing of the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo formerly Zaire in one of the least friendly games held at the Independence Stadium in Bakau yesterday.
Goals from Danish based Tijan Jaiteh, Finnish based Demba Savage and Slovakian based Momodou Ceesay was enough to give the red, white, blue, white, green nation the victory that fans that came to watch the game at the Independence stadium a value for their money thus the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan.
After the late ejections of some players due to injury or travel arrangements, The Gambia’s Belgian tactician worked with the players he has in a squad that is vastly full of international players with only Abdou Jammeh being the local player in the starting line-up. Put started with Pa Dembo Touray at goal, a back four of Mamadou Futty Danso, Abdou Jammeh alias T-Boy, Pa Modou Jagne and Ebrima Sohna while Captain Mustapha Toubabo Jarju partnered with Tijan Jaiteh. Flying striker Sanna Nyassi was in partnership with lanky forward Momodou Ceesay upfront and Dawda Bah was in one of the flanks, Demba Savage on another. Nevertheless, this line-up in itself was a strong squad considering the fact that defender Kebba Ceesay was brought in by Paul Put in order to see him play before being able to play against Burkina as he will miss the Namibia clash after been booked in the last game before this but unfortunately for Paul, Kebba was not in the right state of condition to feature as he received a knock from a Tijan Jaiteh tackle on Tuesday morning during their training but nonetheless, he was amongst the substitute’s bench.
Paul Put charges started as the better side and should’ve taken the lead in the13th minute when Captain Mustapha Toubabo Jarju forced his way forward inside DR Congo’s half to send in a fine curling cross to Rapids man Sanna Nyassi but the star-studded man missed the ball as DR Congo’s poacher Robert Kidiaba fisted the ball over to Momodou Ceesay where he didn’t waste time in sending the ball back to where it came from but unfortunately Sanna Nyassi’s bicycle kick just sailed over Kidiaba.
Six minutes later, the Scorpions were a goal up after Tijan Jaiteh scored a brilliant goal. Congolese defender Eric Nkulukuta’s poor throw in his own half lead to Tijan’s goal as he hurriedly took the throw thereby sending it to Tijan who chested it down and right from the 20 yards out stuck a laser shot which was fumbled by Kidiaba thereby giving Gambia, the 1 nil lead.
And in the 21st minute, Momodou Ceesay [Zico] sent in a curly free-kick that was rumbled by the Leopards poacher but Sanna was beaten to the rebound ball by the cheeky Congolese defence.
Three minutes later, the Stadium was set ablaze after Honka’s leading goal-scorer [with 10 goals] and fine player, Demba Savage replicated his Honka form inside the pitch and scored following a solo marathon run inside Congo’s half after been assisted by HJK Helsinki man Dawda Bah inside Gambia’s half and Savage ran his way through inside Congo’s d-area where he beat past his marker and slotted the ball right inside Kidiba’s net from a tight angle giving Gambia the 2 nil lead.
In the 28th minute, the Leopards of Congo came closer to pulling one back as Mbuyi Andrea received a cross from Mboyo Ilombe Pele but he nodded it past Gambia’s goal-poacher Pa Dembo Touray.
Half an hour gone in the game, Zico beat past several centre half’s but his shot from just inside the d went inches over while a Sanna Nyassi swinging corner cross into the box was nodded down by Savage for Portland’s defender Mamadou Futty Danso but his free header from just five yards out went over the bar. It ended 2 nil at lemon.
The second period of the game saw the game starting in a slow pace with Gambia carrying the vast of the possession. Congolese coach Robert Nouzaret effected several substitutions in order to close down the midfield that was dominated with the partnership of Tijan Jaiteh and Mustapha Toubabo Jarju.
In the 68th minute, Mbuyi Andrea once again had the chance to get a goal for his team but his 19 yards low shot was just been watched by Pa Dembo as it went wide.
The Gambia was given a great opportunity to bury the day when the Bissau Guinean referee Fidel Gomes awarded a penalty to lanky Momodou Ceesay without a second thought Kidiaba grabbed his legs instead of the ball and the MSK Žilina marksman who scored before coming wasted no time in sending Robert Kidiaba the wrong way, 3 nil it was to The Gambia.
The convincing victory over the Leopards will come as a great moral booster for the Scorpions who are hoping to clinch a ticket in its first ever appearance to be at the 2012 African Cup of Nations to be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The Scorpions lies second in the group, accumulating three points from two games, six adrift of group leaders Burkina Faso with the Stallions of Faso playing a game more.
The Scorpions could narrow that gap when they face Namibia in Windhoek, in the first week of September as the Stallions will have a match day rest before preparing for the much awaited game against Paul Duarte’s Burkina at the Independence stadium in October.
It was reported that the Nation’s number one [Preseident Jammeh] but he wasn’t present at the game, nonetheless, he was represented by other high powered dignitaries, Sheriff Gomez, honorable Minister for Youth and Sports and his permanent secretary Alieu K Jammeh, the Minister for Works and Construction Dr Njogu Lamin Bah, the president of the G.F.A Seedy MB Kinteh just to name but a few.
Meanwhile, the day the Scorpions were playing, Burkina Faso was also busy playing against South Africa in Johannesburg but they faltered to a 3 nil defeat to their hosts.
Goals from Danish based Tijan Jaiteh, Finnish based Demba Savage and Slovakian based Momodou Ceesay was enough to give the red, white, blue, white, green nation the victory that fans that came to watch the game at the Independence stadium a value for their money thus the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan.
After the late ejections of some players due to injury or travel arrangements, The Gambia’s Belgian tactician worked with the players he has in a squad that is vastly full of international players with only Abdou Jammeh being the local player in the starting line-up. Put started with Pa Dembo Touray at goal, a back four of Mamadou Futty Danso, Abdou Jammeh alias T-Boy, Pa Modou Jagne and Ebrima Sohna while Captain Mustapha Toubabo Jarju partnered with Tijan Jaiteh. Flying striker Sanna Nyassi was in partnership with lanky forward Momodou Ceesay upfront and Dawda Bah was in one of the flanks, Demba Savage on another. Nevertheless, this line-up in itself was a strong squad considering the fact that defender Kebba Ceesay was brought in by Paul Put in order to see him play before being able to play against Burkina as he will miss the Namibia clash after been booked in the last game before this but unfortunately for Paul, Kebba was not in the right state of condition to feature as he received a knock from a Tijan Jaiteh tackle on Tuesday morning during their training but nonetheless, he was amongst the substitute’s bench.
Paul Put charges started as the better side and should’ve taken the lead in the13th minute when Captain Mustapha Toubabo Jarju forced his way forward inside DR Congo’s half to send in a fine curling cross to Rapids man Sanna Nyassi but the star-studded man missed the ball as DR Congo’s poacher Robert Kidiaba fisted the ball over to Momodou Ceesay where he didn’t waste time in sending the ball back to where it came from but unfortunately Sanna Nyassi’s bicycle kick just sailed over Kidiaba.
Six minutes later, the Scorpions were a goal up after Tijan Jaiteh scored a brilliant goal. Congolese defender Eric Nkulukuta’s poor throw in his own half lead to Tijan’s goal as he hurriedly took the throw thereby sending it to Tijan who chested it down and right from the 20 yards out stuck a laser shot which was fumbled by Kidiaba thereby giving Gambia, the 1 nil lead.
And in the 21st minute, Momodou Ceesay [Zico] sent in a curly free-kick that was rumbled by the Leopards poacher but Sanna was beaten to the rebound ball by the cheeky Congolese defence.
Three minutes later, the Stadium was set ablaze after Honka’s leading goal-scorer [with 10 goals] and fine player, Demba Savage replicated his Honka form inside the pitch and scored following a solo marathon run inside Congo’s half after been assisted by HJK Helsinki man Dawda Bah inside Gambia’s half and Savage ran his way through inside Congo’s d-area where he beat past his marker and slotted the ball right inside Kidiba’s net from a tight angle giving Gambia the 2 nil lead.
In the 28th minute, the Leopards of Congo came closer to pulling one back as Mbuyi Andrea received a cross from Mboyo Ilombe Pele but he nodded it past Gambia’s goal-poacher Pa Dembo Touray.
Half an hour gone in the game, Zico beat past several centre half’s but his shot from just inside the d went inches over while a Sanna Nyassi swinging corner cross into the box was nodded down by Savage for Portland’s defender Mamadou Futty Danso but his free header from just five yards out went over the bar. It ended 2 nil at lemon.
The second period of the game saw the game starting in a slow pace with Gambia carrying the vast of the possession. Congolese coach Robert Nouzaret effected several substitutions in order to close down the midfield that was dominated with the partnership of Tijan Jaiteh and Mustapha Toubabo Jarju.
In the 68th minute, Mbuyi Andrea once again had the chance to get a goal for his team but his 19 yards low shot was just been watched by Pa Dembo as it went wide.
The Gambia was given a great opportunity to bury the day when the Bissau Guinean referee Fidel Gomes awarded a penalty to lanky Momodou Ceesay without a second thought Kidiaba grabbed his legs instead of the ball and the MSK Žilina marksman who scored before coming wasted no time in sending Robert Kidiaba the wrong way, 3 nil it was to The Gambia.
The convincing victory over the Leopards will come as a great moral booster for the Scorpions who are hoping to clinch a ticket in its first ever appearance to be at the 2012 African Cup of Nations to be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. The Scorpions lies second in the group, accumulating three points from two games, six adrift of group leaders Burkina Faso with the Stallions of Faso playing a game more.
The Scorpions could narrow that gap when they face Namibia in Windhoek, in the first week of September as the Stallions will have a match day rest before preparing for the much awaited game against Paul Duarte’s Burkina at the Independence stadium in October.
It was reported that the Nation’s number one [Preseident Jammeh] but he wasn’t present at the game, nonetheless, he was represented by other high powered dignitaries, Sheriff Gomez, honorable Minister for Youth and Sports and his permanent secretary Alieu K Jammeh, the Minister for Works and Construction Dr Njogu Lamin Bah, the president of the G.F.A Seedy MB Kinteh just to name but a few.
Meanwhile, the day the Scorpions were playing, Burkina Faso was also busy playing against South Africa in Johannesburg but they faltered to a 3 nil defeat to their hosts.
Gambian officials in charge of Senegal friendly
Papa Gassama to officiate Senegal vs Morocco friendly
August 10th 2011
Three Gambian officials have been designated to handle the Senegal vs Morocco international friendly match taking place at the Leopold Senghor Stadium in Dakar on August 10, Gambia Sports Online can reveal. The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) announced yesterday that they had named three Gambians to officiate the Senegal - Morocco international friendly match scheduled for August 10 in Dakar.
Papa Bakary Gassama, who will be the central referee will be assisted by his two compatriots Dickory Jawo and Sulayman Touray, Gambia Sports Online is made to understand.
Both teams [Senegal and Morocco] are preparing for the penultimate round of the 2012 African Cup of Nations qualifying, with Senegal on the verge of clinching booking their place for the showpiece after accumulating 10 points from four games to top Group E.
However, their Senegalese head coach Amara Traore warned against complacency last week, saying that the Teranga Lions were still far from any qualification for the Gabon/Equatorial Guinea 2012.
Senegal will play host to obstinate DR Congo who are also scheduled for a friendly against The Gambia today in the fifth round early next month, after the Mamadou Niang-led squad trounced the Leopards 4-2 in the reverse fixture played in Lubumbashi last September whilst Morocco are leading Group D but are tie with Central African Republic with seven points.
Gambian skipper hopeful ahead of Congo clash
August 10th 2011
Ahead of The Gambia’s game against DR Congo tomorrow at the Independence stadium in Bakau, some of the Gambian players have jetted down in the country to honor the nations’ call ahead of the international friendly game.
With all the invited players here except with some exception who were in one way or the other reported to be injured or cannot make it are: Lamin Samateh alias Basmen, Seyfo Soley, Alagie Sosseh, Mohammed Mbye, Omar Jawo and Sainey Nyassi, the players under the guidance of Belgian tactician Paul Put trained at the Independence Stadium yesterday in the morning and also another one in the evening under the newly refurbished floodlights.
The players are hopeful ahead of the clash and the nation’s skipper, Pa Dembo Touray who has been at the top of his game recently with his Swedish Allesvenskan side Djurgården IF is hopeful that Gambia will get something out of the game and urges the general public to come and support them.
Pa Dembo Touray yesterday spoke with waiting reporters at the team’s double training session at the Independence stadium ahead of the game. He started by saying “It’s always good to come and play for your country especially at home as it has been a while especially after the game against Namibia”. “We are just coming here to enjoy ourselves because in football, the more you enjoy what you’re doing, then the more you play good and then the more you will be able to do what you want to do. So we are going to come out here and try to play a very serious game and like I said, yes we are preparing ourselves for the game against Namibia but Congo is a very good team and they have very good players so we’re going to come out here and play as a team” Pa Dembo said.
When asked what he thinks about the game and whether he’s hopeful that The Gambia will bury the day, Pa Dembo said “We had a very short time to prepare because it was only Monday and Tuesday that we trained and the game is on us but we will come out here and play a very serious game and hope that the results go our way.”
Pa Dembo had been under serious scrutiny with Djurgården in the opening weeks of the season and also has a new rival as the Royal Canal recently signed Sierra Leonean keeper of Lebanese origin but has since gained coach Magnus Persson’s confidence back with several respectable performances and the Gambian skipper said he will just replicate the same confidence in the Gambian team in order for them to get the required results that they [the players] want and the fans.
Toubabo’s Caps lands new coach
August 10th 201
Whilst away on international duty, Mustapha Toubabo Jarju’s Vancouver Whitecaps have landed another man in the team but this time, not a player but rather a new head coach who Toubabo, will have to work with next season.
It was one of the worst-kept secret in Vancouver but on Tuesday, the Whitecaps made it official as youngster Sainey Touray’s former team Carolina RailHawks boss Martin Rennie was named as the new ‘Caps head coach, starting in the 2012 Major League Soccer season.
Rennie has enjoyed a brief but successful spell in the lower levels of North American professional soccer, having guided the Cleveland City Stars to a USL-2 championship in 2008 and the Carolina RailHawks to the USSF Division 2 finals in 2010.
“We are thrilled to have Martin joining our club,” said Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber at a press conference at Empire Field. “Martin is widely recognized as one of the top young coaches in North America and has already experienced tremendous success in his coaching career. Martin possesses all the qualities we look for in a head coach and shares our club philosophy.”
Rennie’s RailHawks are running away with the NASL regular season title with 44 points, 12 points clear of second-place Puerto Rico Islanders. The Thurso, Scotland, native will see out the rest of the year with the RailHawks before joining the Whitecaps full time for the 2012 season.
Growing up in Falkirk, Rennie supported the local side Falkirk FC as a child and was a ballboy.
He first learned of the Whitecaps when he collected stickers of soccer players during his youth, and noticed that one of his heroes, Peter Beardsley, played an early part of his career in Vancouver during the 1980s in the original North American Soccer League.
“This is a club I’ve known about for a very long time, and it’s an honor to have this opportunity. It’s only a few years ago since I’ve come to North America to start coaching, but I want to thank the players, staff and the owners of those teams who have given me this chance, particularly the Carolina RailHawks.”
Individually, Rennie has been nominated for Coach of the Year honors an incredible four seasons running, picking up the award at USL-2 level during his two seasons with the Stars.
In terms of his qualifications, he has a UEFA "A" Licence, which he earned at the age of 26 following a knee injury which ended his professional playing career.
“Playing wise, I like to keep possession of the ball as best we can,” said Rennie, whose RailHawks have employed a very aggressive 4-3-3 formation this season. “I like to penetrate when we get into the opposition’s half – not just keep the ball for the sake of it.
"I also want to make us very hard to play against. Teams I’ve coached have regularly been good defensively, hard to beat and hard to break down – that’s the bedrock of all good teams – they don’t lose goals, they defend well, but they also try to build from the back and play entertaining soccer.”
Tom Soehn, who was handed the coaching role in May as he took over from Teitur Thordarson has been of utmost help to Toubabo since his arrival at Vancouver will now be seeing out the 2011/2012 season on the sidelines before going back to his former position which was director of soccer operations whilst Toubabo will have to gain new boss Martin Rennie’s confidence.
Whilst away on international duty, Mustapha Toubabo Jarju’s Vancouver Whitecaps have landed another man in the team but this time, not a player but rather a new head coach who Toubabo, will have to work with next season.
It was one of the worst-kept secret in Vancouver but on Tuesday, the Whitecaps made it official as youngster Sainey Touray’s former team Carolina RailHawks boss Martin Rennie was named as the new ‘Caps head coach, starting in the 2012 Major League Soccer season.
Rennie has enjoyed a brief but successful spell in the lower levels of North American professional soccer, having guided the Cleveland City Stars to a USL-2 championship in 2008 and the Carolina RailHawks to the USSF Division 2 finals in 2010.
“We are thrilled to have Martin joining our club,” said Whitecaps CEO Paul Barber at a press conference at Empire Field. “Martin is widely recognized as one of the top young coaches in North America and has already experienced tremendous success in his coaching career. Martin possesses all the qualities we look for in a head coach and shares our club philosophy.”
Rennie’s RailHawks are running away with the NASL regular season title with 44 points, 12 points clear of second-place Puerto Rico Islanders. The Thurso, Scotland, native will see out the rest of the year with the RailHawks before joining the Whitecaps full time for the 2012 season.
Growing up in Falkirk, Rennie supported the local side Falkirk FC as a child and was a ballboy.
He first learned of the Whitecaps when he collected stickers of soccer players during his youth, and noticed that one of his heroes, Peter Beardsley, played an early part of his career in Vancouver during the 1980s in the original North American Soccer League.
“This is a club I’ve known about for a very long time, and it’s an honor to have this opportunity. It’s only a few years ago since I’ve come to North America to start coaching, but I want to thank the players, staff and the owners of those teams who have given me this chance, particularly the Carolina RailHawks.”
Individually, Rennie has been nominated for Coach of the Year honors an incredible four seasons running, picking up the award at USL-2 level during his two seasons with the Stars.
In terms of his qualifications, he has a UEFA "A" Licence, which he earned at the age of 26 following a knee injury which ended his professional playing career.
“Playing wise, I like to keep possession of the ball as best we can,” said Rennie, whose RailHawks have employed a very aggressive 4-3-3 formation this season. “I like to penetrate when we get into the opposition’s half – not just keep the ball for the sake of it.
"I also want to make us very hard to play against. Teams I’ve coached have regularly been good defensively, hard to beat and hard to break down – that’s the bedrock of all good teams – they don’t lose goals, they defend well, but they also try to build from the back and play entertaining soccer.”
Tom Soehn, who was handed the coaching role in May as he took over from Teitur Thordarson has been of utmost help to Toubabo since his arrival at Vancouver will now be seeing out the 2011/2012 season on the sidelines before going back to his former position which was director of soccer operations whilst Toubabo will have to gain new boss Martin Rennie’s confidence.
Gambian boxer Jack crushes Hall
Gambian boxer Badou Jack
August 1st 2011
Gambian boxer Badou Jack (7-0, 6 KOs), who took two rounds out of a scheduled four-rounder to deposit grossly overmatched opponent Timothy Hall Jr. (6-12, 4 KOs) on his keister and walk away with the easy KO victory.
Badou Jack secured a second round stoppage victory at the expense of Timothy Hall Jr at The Cosmopolitan Ballroom, Las Vegas on Friday, July 29. Jack impressed and was superior from the opening bell to the technical knockout victory. He put his punches into bunches and landed solid shots onto a weakening Hall, dropping his opponent twice and thus prompting the referee to wave the contest off.
Badou Jack, kitted out in black, had an obvious fluidity to his punching when throwing from range but, for the final thirty seconds of the opening minute, the fight went to the inside and the tempo had reduced somewhat, thereby limiting Jack’s ability to put successive shots together.
Hall seemed competent and confident on the inside but Jack took the fight back to mid-range from the second minute onwards and looked the greater technician. Jack landed one-two combinations with ease. At the end of the round, Jack doubled-up on a lead left hook shot, landing to the side of the body.
Badou was accurate with his jab and follow-up shots and had Hall staggered to the extent he needed to immediately hold on when a left struck his chin. Jack began to dispel relentless heavy leather; Hall was dropped and took a count to nine. Moments later, Jack canvassed Hall with a solid right to the body. Jack then forced Hall into a corner and a one-two, to the body then to the head, had Hall falling heavily like a sack of spanners to the deck and referee Kenny Bayless stopped the bout at 1:31 of round two.
Jack, who remains a relative novice, deserves great praise for his finishing ability and gaining the second round teekayo. With the win, Jack boosts his record to 7-0-0, 6ko while Hall slumps to 6-12-0, 4ko.
A crunching body shot meant that the Cosmopolitan Hotel and Casino should consider rethinking giving Hall a buffet comp as a consolation prize as it was the kind of body punch that even the viewer ends up feeling. Jack looks like a prospect with a lot of potential; he had 115 amateur fights and appeared in the 2008 Olympics for Gambia. His career, bears watching!
CAREER
Badou Jack (born October 31, 1983 in Stockholm) is a Gambian-Swedish boxer who qualified for the 2008 Olympics for Gambia as a Middleweight.
Jack was born in Stockholm, Sweden to a Gambian father and Swedish mother. He began boxing in 2001 at the age of 18. In 2007, Jack was named the boxer of the year by the Swedish Boxing Federation. He represented Sweden at light-heavyweight before changing to Gambia, where he qualified for the 2008 Games.
At the 2nd AIBA African 2008 Olympic Qualifying Tournament, he breezed through the competition to win; the final was a shutout win over DR Congo's Herry Saliku Biembe. At the Olympics he lost in the first round to India's Vijender Kumar.
Sounders signs Gambian youngster Sanyang
Gambian youngster Amadou Sanyang
July 31st 2011
Sanna Nyassi’s former MLS side Seattle Sounders has announced the signing of Gambian defender who also doubles as a midfielder and former Toronto FC player Amadou Sanyang alias Baresi.
Signed at the age of 17 by Toronto FC, Baresi made his debut on his 18th birthday, August 1, 2009, playing 14 minutes as a reserve versus Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s New England Revolution. His first start came two weeks later in midfield versus D.C. United. He went on to play in 20 regular season games over two seasons, starting 15.
Amadou Sanyang, who is a 19-year-old central midfieder can also play in defense and became a free agent in December 3rd 2010 as he was sent packing alongside compatriot Emmanuel Gomez.
Sounders FC head coach Sigi Schmid highlighted Sanyang's versatility and range of skills as the impetus for signing the player. He’s quoted as saying “Positionally, Amadou is a good fit for us because he can play either central midfield or in the back.” He concluded by saying “He’s a good passer, a good defender, and he can cover a lot of ground.”
Amadou Sanyang will likely not be an addition that pushes the team over the top now, but instead will be a depth piece at CDM, CB and maybe even the fullback spots. A young player who still has plenty of upside it will be interesting to follow his developmental path. His salary in 2010 was $40,000 making it quite likely he fills the final non-Senior roster slot that was open. Seattle still has one senior roster slot open for a signing without a subsequent move.
He won two accolades at his time in Toronto. He won the Nutrilite Canadian Cup with TFC in 2009 and also the Concacaf Champions League/Cup in 2010.
Amadou “Baresi” Sanyang now joins a growing contingent of Gambian exports in MLS, including Abdoulie Kenny Mansally and Sainey Nyassi (New England Revolution), Mamadou “Futty” Danso (Portland Timbers), Mustapha Jarju (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Omar “Waterman” Jasseh (San Jose Earthquakes), Sanna Nyassi and Gambian hopeful Macoumba Kandji both of (Colorado Rapids).
CAREER
Sanyang began his professional career with Read de Banjul of the Gambia Football League 1st division side. Sanyang's time with Real de Banjul was a successful one, and in 2007 he was honoured as the best midfielder in the Gambian League.
His play with the Gambian Under-20 National Team sparked interest among Major League Soccer clubs and in early 2009 he was signed by Toronto FC along with a fellow countryman Emmanuel Gomez who now plays for Samger. Due to his age he was initially ineligible to join the senior squad until his 18th birthday, which took place on August 1, 2009; during this time he trained with both the senior team and the TFC Academy.
Sanyang made his debut for Toronto FC on August 1, 2009 as a sub vs. Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s New England Revolution.
In September 2009, two Ligue 1 clubs sent scouts to Toronto to watch him in action. Dutch club PSV Eindhoven also requested video footage.
Sanyang made 14 appearances in his second year with Toronto and first full season, he was plagued with a concussion that prevented him making any appearances in the second half of the season.
Amadou Sanyang has represented The Gambia at various youth levels. He was part of the 2007 Gambian U-17 National Team as he helped lead the Gambian U-17 squad in conquering the Four Nation Tournament held in Ivory Coast. He was also named the second best player in the tournament. He was also part of the 2008 Gambia U-20 squad.
Sanna Nyassi’s former MLS side Seattle Sounders has announced the signing of Gambian defender who also doubles as a midfielder and former Toronto FC player Amadou Sanyang alias Baresi.
Signed at the age of 17 by Toronto FC, Baresi made his debut on his 18th birthday, August 1, 2009, playing 14 minutes as a reserve versus Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s New England Revolution. His first start came two weeks later in midfield versus D.C. United. He went on to play in 20 regular season games over two seasons, starting 15.
Amadou Sanyang, who is a 19-year-old central midfieder can also play in defense and became a free agent in December 3rd 2010 as he was sent packing alongside compatriot Emmanuel Gomez.
Sounders FC head coach Sigi Schmid highlighted Sanyang's versatility and range of skills as the impetus for signing the player. He’s quoted as saying “Positionally, Amadou is a good fit for us because he can play either central midfield or in the back.” He concluded by saying “He’s a good passer, a good defender, and he can cover a lot of ground.”
Amadou Sanyang will likely not be an addition that pushes the team over the top now, but instead will be a depth piece at CDM, CB and maybe even the fullback spots. A young player who still has plenty of upside it will be interesting to follow his developmental path. His salary in 2010 was $40,000 making it quite likely he fills the final non-Senior roster slot that was open. Seattle still has one senior roster slot open for a signing without a subsequent move.
He won two accolades at his time in Toronto. He won the Nutrilite Canadian Cup with TFC in 2009 and also the Concacaf Champions League/Cup in 2010.
Amadou “Baresi” Sanyang now joins a growing contingent of Gambian exports in MLS, including Abdoulie Kenny Mansally and Sainey Nyassi (New England Revolution), Mamadou “Futty” Danso (Portland Timbers), Mustapha Jarju (Vancouver Whitecaps FC), Omar “Waterman” Jasseh (San Jose Earthquakes), Sanna Nyassi and Gambian hopeful Macoumba Kandji both of (Colorado Rapids).
CAREER
Sanyang began his professional career with Read de Banjul of the Gambia Football League 1st division side. Sanyang's time with Real de Banjul was a successful one, and in 2007 he was honoured as the best midfielder in the Gambian League.
His play with the Gambian Under-20 National Team sparked interest among Major League Soccer clubs and in early 2009 he was signed by Toronto FC along with a fellow countryman Emmanuel Gomez who now plays for Samger. Due to his age he was initially ineligible to join the senior squad until his 18th birthday, which took place on August 1, 2009; during this time he trained with both the senior team and the TFC Academy.
Sanyang made his debut for Toronto FC on August 1, 2009 as a sub vs. Sainey Nyassi and Abdoulie Kenny Mansally’s New England Revolution.
In September 2009, two Ligue 1 clubs sent scouts to Toronto to watch him in action. Dutch club PSV Eindhoven also requested video footage.
Sanyang made 14 appearances in his second year with Toronto and first full season, he was plagued with a concussion that prevented him making any appearances in the second half of the season.
Amadou Sanyang has represented The Gambia at various youth levels. He was part of the 2007 Gambian U-17 National Team as he helped lead the Gambian U-17 squad in conquering the Four Nation Tournament held in Ivory Coast. He was also named the second best player in the tournament. He was also part of the 2008 Gambia U-20 squad.
Jawo demands more playing time, otherwise.......
Amadou Jawo
July 29th 2011
Uncapped Gambian striker Amadou Jawo is frustrated of the lack of playing time that he is having at his Swedish Allsvenskan side IF Elfsborg and warns he will leave Elfsborg if he does not get more playing time soon.
Jawo was a great acquisition for Elfsborg when he was bought from Gefle IF in 2009. He has since been warming the bench since Coach Magnus Haglund acquired the services of David Elm and Lasse Nilsson in January.
Earlier this season, Jawo expressed desire to leave the club but he was promised that he will be giving more playing time and also Elfsborg were unwilling to sell him at the time.
In an interview with a Swedish paper, Jawo said “I have been playing some more recent games, but we'll see what happens in the near future”.
When asked whether his future will be determined in the next few weeks, Jawo answered in the affirmative.
Jawo, who has only had two startling games in the league and made eight appearances in all with the last being at Pa Dembo Touray and Kebba Ceesay’s Djurgården where he came in as a 91st minute substitute. When asked how he feels about that, he said “I have been playing far too little. I think I should have been playing more now that I have been in good form but it is not me who decides, he says.
Jawo has no problem if the club [Elfsborg] is willing to let him go. Even if Amadou Jawo and the club agrees that he should move, Jawo will not lack clubs that will be courting for his signature, as several clubs are keeping tabs on the attacker. “There is nothing concrete but some clubs have shown interest”, his agent Jonas Smith is quoted as saying though he also cited that Scandinavian clubs have keen interest in securing him.
Jawo affirmed that, it should not be a problem. One club Amadou will definitely like to move is Djurgården, a team that are looking to reinforce their squad and also a team that Jawo himself has so much love for. He said “I have good contact with them [Djurgården], especially the director, Alf Johansson”.
Jawo, who is Gambian origin but never played for Paul Put’s charges have been spending much with Gambian internationals in the like of goal-keeper Pa Dembo Touray and defender Kebba Ceesay who are at the Royal Canal Gambian will have no problem in settling down at Djurgården as he have those over there already. He concluded by saying, “We talk quite often, I have met Dembo in a couple of Gambian parties and Kebba in the town and he also comes to my home”.
As for Elfsborg, they are not that much interested about Jawo’s transfer and do not want to buttress more on it as the sports director, Stefan Andreasson stated. “He is in Elfsborg now and we have a tough time so that's where we are focusing”.
Gambia in 2014 World Cup draw
Scorpions.
July 27th 2011
On Saturday, Gambians will have their eyes glued to their TV screens as they will await their faith in the Preliminary Draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The Gambian national team dubbed Scorpions will be part of those been drawn for the preliminary draw in Rio de Janeiro’s Marina da Gloria as 166 nations await their destiny.
The senior national football team will be praying for a favorable draw when the preliminary draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup takes place at the end of this month in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
This final draw will decide preliminary knock-out matches for Africa’s 24 lowest ranked nations, when the games start from 11 to15 November 2011.
The Scorpions have moved into the seeded pot for the preliminary round draw of the 2014 FIFA World Cup after the team’s recent 3-2 defeat over Liberia in a friendly. The Scorpions had to play a friendly match and win before 21 July in order to improve their FIFA rankings, which placed them into the seeded pot.
During the preliminary round, the Scorpions will want to avoid countries such Benin, Central African Republic, Niger and Angola and will want to have the prospect of facing countries like Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone and Sudan.
A total of 12 winners from the two-leg preliminary knock-out qualification games will join the remaining 28 Confederation of African Football (CAF) national teams in the second round, group stage, which will consist of 10 groups of four different teams.
The winners of each group in the second round matches that will take place between June 2012 and September 2013, will advance to a third round that will include five groups, which all the teams will play home-and-away scheduled for October and November 2013. The five group winners will qualify to the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup will feature 32 teams. One place has been allocated to the hosts, Brazil, and as in 2006 and 2010, no automatic place is given to the defending champions, Spain.
The remaining 31 places will be determined by a qualification process, in which entrants from among the other 207 teams from the six FIFA confederations will compete.
As in the past, most qualifiers will be determined within these confederations, with a limited number of inter-confederation play-offs occurring at the end of the process.
Brunei, Bhutan, Guam and Mauritania have not entered. As of this month, 190 teams in the world remain in contention for the 31 remaining qualification places.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup seeding CAF pots for preliminary round is as follows:
Pot 1: Mozambique, Congo DR, Togo, Liberia, Tanzania, Kenya, Congo, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Burundi, Madagascar, Namibia.
Pot 2: Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, Swaziland, Comoros, Lesotho, Eritrea, Somalia, Djibouti, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sao Tome Principe.
Group stage draw include in Pot 1: Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Cameroon, Algeria, and Tunisia.
Pot 2: Gabon, Libya, Morocco, Guinea, Malawi, Botswana, Zambia, Uganda, Mali, Cape Verde Islands.
Pot 3: Benin, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Niger, Gambia, Angola.
The winners of the first two matches from the preliminary round in the order of the draw will be placed in Pot 3, while the other winners will be placed in Pot 4 for the second round final draw that will consist of 10 groups of four teams in each group.
On Saturday, Gambians will have their eyes glued to their TV screens as they will await their faith in the Preliminary Draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The Gambian national team dubbed Scorpions will be part of those been drawn for the preliminary draw in Rio de Janeiro’s Marina da Gloria as 166 nations await their destiny.
The senior national football team will be praying for a favorable draw when the preliminary draw for the 2014 FIFA World Cup takes place at the end of this month in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
This final draw will decide preliminary knock-out matches for Africa’s 24 lowest ranked nations, when the games start from 11 to15 November 2011.
The Scorpions have moved into the seeded pot for the preliminary round draw of the 2014 FIFA World Cup after the team’s recent 3-2 defeat over Liberia in a friendly. The Scorpions had to play a friendly match and win before 21 July in order to improve their FIFA rankings, which placed them into the seeded pot.
During the preliminary round, the Scorpions will want to avoid countries such Benin, Central African Republic, Niger and Angola and will want to have the prospect of facing countries like Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone and Sudan.
A total of 12 winners from the two-leg preliminary knock-out qualification games will join the remaining 28 Confederation of African Football (CAF) national teams in the second round, group stage, which will consist of 10 groups of four different teams.
The winners of each group in the second round matches that will take place between June 2012 and September 2013, will advance to a third round that will include five groups, which all the teams will play home-and-away scheduled for October and November 2013. The five group winners will qualify to the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup will feature 32 teams. One place has been allocated to the hosts, Brazil, and as in 2006 and 2010, no automatic place is given to the defending champions, Spain.
The remaining 31 places will be determined by a qualification process, in which entrants from among the other 207 teams from the six FIFA confederations will compete.
As in the past, most qualifiers will be determined within these confederations, with a limited number of inter-confederation play-offs occurring at the end of the process.
Brunei, Bhutan, Guam and Mauritania have not entered. As of this month, 190 teams in the world remain in contention for the 31 remaining qualification places.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup seeding CAF pots for preliminary round is as follows:
Pot 1: Mozambique, Congo DR, Togo, Liberia, Tanzania, Kenya, Congo, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Burundi, Madagascar, Namibia.
Pot 2: Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Chad, Swaziland, Comoros, Lesotho, Eritrea, Somalia, Djibouti, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sao Tome Principe.
Group stage draw include in Pot 1: Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Cameroon, Algeria, and Tunisia.
Pot 2: Gabon, Libya, Morocco, Guinea, Malawi, Botswana, Zambia, Uganda, Mali, Cape Verde Islands.
Pot 3: Benin, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic, Sierra Leone, Sudan, Niger, Gambia, Angola.
The winners of the first two matches from the preliminary round in the order of the draw will be placed in Pot 3, while the other winners will be placed in Pot 4 for the second round final draw that will consist of 10 groups of four teams in each group.
Gambia in the top 100 in latest FIFA rankings
The Gambia National team
July 27th 2011
The Scorpions of The Gambia jumped 2 places on the latest FIFA/Coca Cola World rankings to ensure a favourable draw in the preliminary round for the World Cup qualifiers for the 24 bottom placed teams on the African continent.
The Gambia is now ranked 100 after moving up from 103 in April and May to 102 last month. The jump was as a result of the recent games The Gambia played, one with Gabon in which The Gambia won by a goal to nil and of recent the trip to Liberia where The Gambia was beaten by 3 goals to 2. The Gambia has gained 329 points in the latest ranking by FIFA.
A total of 88 matches have been taken into account for the July edition of the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, almost a third of which were part of this year’s Copa America, which therefore had a considerable impact on this month’s positions.
On the African continent, Paul Put’s charges are still non-movers as they still are behind Angola with who are 27 and The Gambia in 28. Ivory Coast remain at number one and 14 in the world, with Egypt second with a world ranking of 34. They are followed by Ghana (36), Burkina Faso (39), Nigeria (43), Senegal (46), South Africa (49), Cameroon (50), Algeria (52) and Tunisia (55).
The Bahamas were the biggest climbers after they moved up 44 places on the rankings to 152 in the world. The biggest losers were Haiti who dropped 28 places to 117 in the world.
Spain remain the number one ranked nation in the world followed by the Netherlands, Germany, Brazil, Uruguay, England, Portugal, Italy, Croatia and Argentina.
Savage draws interest from Europe
Gambian international Demba Savage seems to be a hot product.
July 21st 2011
Gambian international and FC Honka's flying winger/midfielder Demba Savage has been drawing interest from a few clubs around Europe with Sweden being the most recent offer but Savage seems to be dismissing those claims Gambia Sports Online has gathered.
According to Savage, he says that he does not know foreign clubs has shown interest in him, Savage said in an interview on Thursday morning as his team is under intense preparation in tonight's Europa League qualifying match. Savage, however, acknowledges that something can happen, but not quite in the near future.
Swedish newspapers have been speculating that there will be a possible transfer for Savage in Sweden with Allsvenskan’s current league leaders Helsingborg IF. Helsingborg are now looking to reinstate their attack as they have sold their attacker Alexander Gerndt to Dutch side FC Utrecht where he will be joining them next month and Savage might be a possible replacement.
Helsingborg has been keeping tabs on the Gambian international as they follow his progress in every game of Honka.
Demba Savage meanwhile have not rubbished the rumours as he is aware of them. He told the Finnish press, “I am still Honka player. I've heard some rumours, but I'm just trying to concentrate on playing good football. If I continue to play well, anything can happen in the end. You never know what can happen”, Savage said.
Honka are now basing their focus on tonight’s game against Swedish side BK Häcken in Vantaa Myyrmäki stadium. Honka lost the second qualifying round first leg 0-1 in Sweden and will be hoping to turn the result on aggregate.
The Gambia Football Association has invited Honka to be part of The Gambia’s team that will play a friendly against the Democratic Republic of Congo on the 10th of August at the Independence Stadium in Bakau but the Finnish club may limit or even prevent Savage’s trip though there has been a request made by the GFA for the player to be available on the 4th to the 11th of August.
Savage is interested in coming and answering his nation’s call but at the same time, he understands the position that Honka are. He is coated as saying “The Gambia wanted me there in 4th August, but we [Honka] will be playing on the 7th against KuPS and on the 12th, we have a big match against Dawda Bah’s HJK. Honka has sent a message to the Gambia Football Association (GFA) about possibilities of me getting there on the 8th and returning on the 10th after the game but we are awaiting a reply from them”, Savage says and he concluded by saying, [Every game is important at the moment. Everything depends on Honka, because they take care of me].
Ousman Jallow trials in Turkey
Ousman Jallow set to play second-tier football in Turkey
It has emerged that Gambia international Ousman Jallow is under-going a trial in Turkey with second-tier Çaykur Rizespor.
The highly-rated Gambian striker became a free agent in June after being told by his former Danish club, Brondby, that his contract wouldn’t be renewed.
As he’s so often done in the past Ous has wasted little time in convincing his new suitors that he has what they are looking for – goals.
The 22-year-old Gambian striker scored a hat trick in his first preseason game for Rizespor and scored again in Rizespor’s 2-1 loss to top-tier side Karabukspor on Tuesday.
His early goals have helped answer questions as to why a player of Ous Jallow’s quality should be subjected to a trial at a club that’s hardly known outside Turkey.
Rizepor’s Technical Director Huseyin Kalpar said of their Gambian interest, “Ousman Jallow is a fine player and we have been following him for a long time.”
“Such a trial is not for footballers like him,” he quickly added.
“My wish will be for us to agree terms and sure if we do, he will be signed."
The Sparrow Hawks as Rizespor are fondly called are in intensive training for the start of a new season.
They finished fourth last season, four points behind the two promoted sides.
They are looking for new players to reinforce the team.
The highly-rated Gambian striker became a free agent in June after being told by his former Danish club, Brondby, that his contract wouldn’t be renewed.
As he’s so often done in the past Ous has wasted little time in convincing his new suitors that he has what they are looking for – goals.
The 22-year-old Gambian striker scored a hat trick in his first preseason game for Rizespor and scored again in Rizespor’s 2-1 loss to top-tier side Karabukspor on Tuesday.
His early goals have helped answer questions as to why a player of Ous Jallow’s quality should be subjected to a trial at a club that’s hardly known outside Turkey.
Rizepor’s Technical Director Huseyin Kalpar said of their Gambian interest, “Ousman Jallow is a fine player and we have been following him for a long time.”
“Such a trial is not for footballers like him,” he quickly added.
“My wish will be for us to agree terms and sure if we do, he will be signed."
The Sparrow Hawks as Rizespor are fondly called are in intensive training for the start of a new season.
They finished fourth last season, four points behind the two promoted sides.
They are looking for new players to reinforce the team.
Toubabo puts pen to paper for Vancouver Whitecaps
Toubabo at a press conference.
Gambian international Mustapha “Toubabo” Jarju has put pen to paper for the Vancouver Whitecaps on Tuesday, Gam Sports Online can reveal.
The Vancouver Whitecaps introduced Gambian forward Mustapha Jarju as their second designated player on Tuesday.
Jarju, 24, comes to the Caps after three seasons with Belgian club RAEC Mons.
Last season, he scored 25 goals in all competitions and helped Mons earn promotion to the Belgium's top-flight Jupiler Pro League.
Prior to his move to Belgium, Jarju played for several teams in Gambia, where he is alternate captain of the national team.
He captained Gambia at the under-17 and under-20 levels.
"We continue to try and add pieces to the puzzle," said Tommy Soehn, the Caps' coach and director of soccer operations.
"The thing that drew us to him was his nose for the goal and his ability to set up goals.
"He's at a great age where there's still room to grow as a player. We're excited to have him."
Jarju joins a Whitecaps team that's 2-10-8 in its first MLS season.
Vancouver hosts Real Salt Lake on Saturday at Empire Field before an international friendly with Manchester City on Monday.
The international transfer window opens Friday so, as long as his paperwork comes through, Jarju will be available for selection.
He was set to go through his first training session Tuesday morning at Swangard Stadium.
"I'm very happy to be here for MLS., a league that's going up in football, and very happy to come to join Vancouver Whitecaps," said Jarju.
There are several Gambians in MLS: the Nyassi brothers, Sainey and Sanna, Mamadou Danso in Portland, Macoumba Kandji in Colorado and Abdoulie Mansally in New England.
Jarju is the first African designated player (DP) though.
Each MLS team is allowed three DPs — players who can be paid beyond the salary budget maximum by the club's ownership with only $335,000 charged to the budget.
Or, in the case of a mid-season acquisition like Jarju, half of that, or $167,500 is charged against the budget.
Jarju is on a four-year deal but financials details aren't known.
He's expected to complement big French forward Eric Hassli, Vancouver's first DP who has six goals but has been left to carry much of the load himself.
Jarju, 5-foot-9, said his favourite role is that of a No. 10, or second striker, while he's also spent time up front and in midfield.
Currently for the Caps, Davide Chiumiento has been playing in a No. 10 role, though he's been out with a hamstring injury for four games.
Caps' president Bobby Lenarduzzi said the team is still open to signing players.
"We're still looking," he said. "What we didn't want to do is make a signing that was a short-term fix. We'd like to do these [signings] with an eye to the future. He's had a good career at a very early age in Belgium."
With Jarju's signing, the Whitecaps are officially at 30 players, the MLS maximum, though defender Mouloud Akloul is on his way out, which will free up a spot.
The Vancouver Whitecaps introduced Gambian forward Mustapha Jarju as their second designated player on Tuesday.
Jarju, 24, comes to the Caps after three seasons with Belgian club RAEC Mons.
Last season, he scored 25 goals in all competitions and helped Mons earn promotion to the Belgium's top-flight Jupiler Pro League.
Prior to his move to Belgium, Jarju played for several teams in Gambia, where he is alternate captain of the national team.
He captained Gambia at the under-17 and under-20 levels.
"We continue to try and add pieces to the puzzle," said Tommy Soehn, the Caps' coach and director of soccer operations.
"The thing that drew us to him was his nose for the goal and his ability to set up goals.
"He's at a great age where there's still room to grow as a player. We're excited to have him."
Jarju joins a Whitecaps team that's 2-10-8 in its first MLS season.
Vancouver hosts Real Salt Lake on Saturday at Empire Field before an international friendly with Manchester City on Monday.
The international transfer window opens Friday so, as long as his paperwork comes through, Jarju will be available for selection.
He was set to go through his first training session Tuesday morning at Swangard Stadium.
"I'm very happy to be here for MLS., a league that's going up in football, and very happy to come to join Vancouver Whitecaps," said Jarju.
There are several Gambians in MLS: the Nyassi brothers, Sainey and Sanna, Mamadou Danso in Portland, Macoumba Kandji in Colorado and Abdoulie Mansally in New England.
Jarju is the first African designated player (DP) though.
Each MLS team is allowed three DPs — players who can be paid beyond the salary budget maximum by the club's ownership with only $335,000 charged to the budget.
Or, in the case of a mid-season acquisition like Jarju, half of that, or $167,500 is charged against the budget.
Jarju is on a four-year deal but financials details aren't known.
He's expected to complement big French forward Eric Hassli, Vancouver's first DP who has six goals but has been left to carry much of the load himself.
Jarju, 5-foot-9, said his favourite role is that of a No. 10, or second striker, while he's also spent time up front and in midfield.
Currently for the Caps, Davide Chiumiento has been playing in a No. 10 role, though he's been out with a hamstring injury for four games.
Caps' president Bobby Lenarduzzi said the team is still open to signing players.
"We're still looking," he said. "What we didn't want to do is make a signing that was a short-term fix. We'd like to do these [signings] with an eye to the future. He's had a good career at a very early age in Belgium."
With Jarju's signing, the Whitecaps are officially at 30 players, the MLS maximum, though defender Mouloud Akloul is on his way out, which will free up a spot.
Jawo’s Elfsborg pile pressure on Helsingborg
Jawo hopes to gain coach Magnus Haglunds confidence
July 5th 2011
Amadou Jawo and his Swedish Allesvenskan side IF Elfsborg are now 3 points behind league leaders Helsingborg after destroying Örebro in their weekend fixture.
The home team started the game with some good counter attacking football and creating several chances but they were all squandered.
Elfsborg’s 33 year old Danish goal-poacher Jesper Ringsborg Christiansen was very stable at Elfsborg goal as he managed to punch balls out inorder to maintain a clean sheet in the game.
Anders Svensson was also brilliant in the game as he was instrumental in creating Elfsborg first goal scoring opportunity. He break into the Örebro’s defence where he played on the ball to Stefan Daisuke Ishizaki who hit a hard ball inwards towards the overthrow of striker Lasse Nilsson. Ishizaki’s hard depth ball did not reach Nilsson but Ishi as he is fondly called completed the race ahead, and could thus steal the ball from Örebro’s Patrik Haginge beating a mad fit straight into the jaws of Ishi who wasted no time putting the ball safely down at the pole.
In the 24th minute of play Elfsborg had a brilliant chance to increase the scoreline to 2 nil but it wasn’t materialized.
Just before half-time, Elfsborg created two clear cut chances but they squandered their wonderful chance!
It ended 1 nil in favor of Elfsborg in the first half of the game.
The second half continued just as how the first ended with an even game.
The longer the second-half points, the more it seemed to Elfsborg was very keen to retain its 1-0 lead. The team from Boras had all the time of the world to play their football on the right side of and took no unnecessary risks.
With half an hour left in the game Örebro’s had their best chance so far in the game coming through their 24 year old American mid-fielder Alejandro Bedoya who walked into the center of an offensive penalty area and chose to shoot but his shot was blocked by Elfsborg defenders.
Amadou Jawo was introduced in the game in the 73rd minute coming in for Ishizaki. Minutes later, Elfsborg took over more and more and created a host of chances but they didn’t capitalize in those chances. Örebro’s goalie was shown his matching orders in the 77th minute after a dangerous tackle made on Jawo.
With a man down for Örebro, it was only a matter of time before Elfsborg could network and in the 89th minute, it happened through Johan Larsson whose fantastic dribble into the half or Örebro was enough for him to pass the ball to his team mate Amadou Jawo with a delicate depth ball. Jawo triggered a shot but his shot was blocked and out for a rebound and he wasted no time in rolled it into the open cage (goal) and perhaps gaining coach Magnus Haglund’s confidence. Örebro’s lack of self-confidence even more ahead of their return at the Boras Arena in a week (June 10th) saw Johan Larsson completing the 3 nil romping of Örebro.
Jawo’s Elfsborg will now be planning to defend their 4 nil thrashing of Fola Esch in the UEFA Europa league qualifiers before they meet Örebro again over the weekend. They now lie 3 points behind league leaders Helsingborg with 15 games played each.
Amadou Jawo and his Swedish Allesvenskan side IF Elfsborg are now 3 points behind league leaders Helsingborg after destroying Örebro in their weekend fixture.
The home team started the game with some good counter attacking football and creating several chances but they were all squandered.
Elfsborg’s 33 year old Danish goal-poacher Jesper Ringsborg Christiansen was very stable at Elfsborg goal as he managed to punch balls out inorder to maintain a clean sheet in the game.
Anders Svensson was also brilliant in the game as he was instrumental in creating Elfsborg first goal scoring opportunity. He break into the Örebro’s defence where he played on the ball to Stefan Daisuke Ishizaki who hit a hard ball inwards towards the overthrow of striker Lasse Nilsson. Ishizaki’s hard depth ball did not reach Nilsson but Ishi as he is fondly called completed the race ahead, and could thus steal the ball from Örebro’s Patrik Haginge beating a mad fit straight into the jaws of Ishi who wasted no time putting the ball safely down at the pole.
In the 24th minute of play Elfsborg had a brilliant chance to increase the scoreline to 2 nil but it wasn’t materialized.
Just before half-time, Elfsborg created two clear cut chances but they squandered their wonderful chance!
It ended 1 nil in favor of Elfsborg in the first half of the game.
The second half continued just as how the first ended with an even game.
The longer the second-half points, the more it seemed to Elfsborg was very keen to retain its 1-0 lead. The team from Boras had all the time of the world to play their football on the right side of and took no unnecessary risks.
With half an hour left in the game Örebro’s had their best chance so far in the game coming through their 24 year old American mid-fielder Alejandro Bedoya who walked into the center of an offensive penalty area and chose to shoot but his shot was blocked by Elfsborg defenders.
Amadou Jawo was introduced in the game in the 73rd minute coming in for Ishizaki. Minutes later, Elfsborg took over more and more and created a host of chances but they didn’t capitalize in those chances. Örebro’s goalie was shown his matching orders in the 77th minute after a dangerous tackle made on Jawo.
With a man down for Örebro, it was only a matter of time before Elfsborg could network and in the 89th minute, it happened through Johan Larsson whose fantastic dribble into the half or Örebro was enough for him to pass the ball to his team mate Amadou Jawo with a delicate depth ball. Jawo triggered a shot but his shot was blocked and out for a rebound and he wasted no time in rolled it into the open cage (goal) and perhaps gaining coach Magnus Haglund’s confidence. Örebro’s lack of self-confidence even more ahead of their return at the Boras Arena in a week (June 10th) saw Johan Larsson completing the 3 nil romping of Örebro.
Jawo’s Elfsborg will now be planning to defend their 4 nil thrashing of Fola Esch in the UEFA Europa league qualifiers before they meet Örebro again over the weekend. They now lie 3 points behind league leaders Helsingborg with 15 games played each.
Jallow might leave Denmark
Jallow might leave Denmark
June 21st 2011
It is nearly three weeks ago that Brondby IF announced that they will not renew the contract of former Al-Ain and Gambian international Ousman Jallow and since then two unnamed Danish clubs have been vying for The Gambian International signature.
Meanwhile, Jallow was included in Paul Put’s charges to represent The Gambia in Gabon in which The Gambia won by a goal to nil and since then he has been on vacation in The Gambia.
During his stay here in The Gambia, he will probably be considering his future very carefully and the clarification may be just be above.
Ousman Jallow, will be travelling to meet with his agent Ibrahim Jallow. Two Danish clubs have been in competition to secure Jallow’s signature, but now it appears that Jallow will be leaving Denmark for playing time in other European leagues.
“There are three possible clubs for Ousman - all in Europe. And it's up to him to decide what should happen. None of the clubs are from Denmark, even though he had two really good opportunities in Denmark. Ousman need to evolve, and he does not think of how much money he can earn. There have been two good economic opportunities in Asia (China to be precise), but he would not accept the offer because he believes he will develop better in Europe”, says his agent, Ibrahim Jallow to the Danish Press.
At which club and which country is the team in, his agent does not wish to dilate more on it. He merely noted that the three clubs are likely desperate to get their hands on him. Jallow decided to turn down an offer given to him by a French club.
“I just got an email from a club in the best French series (Ligue 1), which wanted him to try-out (trial). We do not want, because we have opportunities in clubs that know him and who really wants him. But it is up to Ousman to choose, and if he decides now or later, it’s up to him”, says Ibrahim Jallow.
Ousman Jallow played 70 Premier League games for Brondby in which he scored 14 goals. He did not manage to land a permanent place in the preceding season.
Whatever Jallow decides, he is not quite finished with Denmark yet. He has still some things in his apartment that he should take along with him before he can take his next club destination.
Pa Dembo and Kebba Ceesay’s lowly Djurgården hit their stride
June 21st 2011
It was a clash of Gambian internationals on Monday’s Swedish derby in the Allvenskan where Pa Dembo Touray and Kebba Ceesay’s lowly Djurgården welcomed Omar Jawo’s Syrianska FC.
Djurgården claimed back-to-back wins with a thumping 3-0 home success over 10-man Syrianska.
Christer Youssef opened the scoring on 13 minutes before second-half goals from Joona Toivio and Petter Gustafsson sealed an impressive success that moved Djurgardens third from bottom in the table.
The visitors, who are now just a point above their rivals, had Gambian international Omar Jawo sent off with 65 minutes played.
Djurgården now lies 14 with 11 points in the 16 team table whilst Syrianska are just a point ahead of them.
Scandinavian and foreign clubs chasing Jawo
June 15th 2011
Amadou Jawo is far from a place in the starting line at Elfsborg.
But the interest is still high for the 26-year-old Gambian striker.
Jawo is currently on the radar of both Swedish and foreign clubs.
There are several clubs from all over Scandinavia that are interested in him, "said his agent Jonathan Smith.
Elfsborg bought Amadou Jawo from Gefle in 2009 and now it’s been two years and he is still in the club - but success for him has not materialized.
No place at the starting line-up
In two years, he has only played 14 games from the start and this season, he has not even made a single appearance from the start this season.
Still, there is greater interest for the attacker, at least according to his agent, Jonathan Smith.
There are several clubs from all over Scandinavia and Europe that are interested in him but there is still nothing concrete from any club. Something concrete from the clubs will be available in August as there is still nine games left this season for Elfsborg, when the season ends, then we will see, "he told Fotbolldirekt.se.
Stabaek show interest
It was previously said that Djurgården, Gefle and Syrianska are all interested in Jawo. Now reports are that Norwegian Tippeligaen side Stabaek will be hungry for a deal.
Agent Jonathan Smith does not think that Elfsborg will prevent a possible move for the attacker as he is searching for playing time.
No, I have not received any such signals. After all, he has to play football, and I think Elfsborg understands, "he said.
Touray may quit Djurgården IF
Touray maybe heading to the exit door.
June 15th 2011
Pa Dembo Touray maybe playing his final season at Djurgården.
Reports are that, DIF will not extend the goalkeeper's contract - but rather will try to sell him this summer.
Meanwhile, Köping FF's Mehdi Khalil might be a possible replacement.
We have not discussed an extension with Pa Dembo; otherwise I have no comment, "said club manager Magnus Pehrsson.
Pa Dembo Touray, 31, has been at Djurgården since 2000 and had the opportunity to be the first goalie in 2004 after Andreas Isaksson left the club to play in Rennes, France.
Pa Dembo has played 166 games in eleven seasons in a DIF shirt and in 2010 he was made team captain of the club. As recently as last Monday, he zero out against IFK Gothenburg.
Top earner at Djurgården
According to several sources close to the club, Djurgården will not offer Touray a new contract - and thus will decide to get rid of him. There are several reasons why the club wants to get rid of him and one of them is that he has not met the club’s expectations this season, and also the club wants to get rid of his high wages because he is one of the team's highest-paid player.
"No contract extension"
The headlines this year has mostly been about his mistakes, poor performance and also the criticization of club fans and as well as from top politician Ulf Adelsohn.
It will now be working actively to sell him this summer, and thus is the only chance for the club to get money for new players.
The day we agree on a contract extension or something else, we will announce it. Otherwise I have no comment, "says Djurgårdens manager Magnus Pehrsson.
According to plans, he will not be offered a contract extension and thus will be playing his final season at the club?
20 year old Khalil, likely to replace him
Meanwhile the club is interested in Köping FF's Mehdi Khalil, 20 as Touray’s replacement. On Monday, DIF’s scouting director Mats Jansson went to watch Köping vs Arboga in the Swedish 3rd Division in order to gauge the performance of Khalil who’s from Sierra Leone.
I have not seen Khalil so I cannot say anything about him, but Mats will report back to me immediately when I see him, "said Magnus Pehrsson.
Efforts to reach Pa Dembo Touray to comment on the matter via phone calls and text proof futile by SPORT-Expressen.
Numerous clubs are linked with a move for the goalie with a transfer to the English championship the most discussed.
Gambian Flying Winger to Exit Sincil Bank
GOING: Mustapha Carayol is close to leaving Lincoln City.
June 15th 2011
Former Torquay winger Mustapha Carayol is almost certainly not going to be a Lincoln City player by the end of the week.
The 21 year old Gambian is in discussions with a club and City are hoping to receive a fee to compensate them for his departure, £40k to be precise.
Believed to be one of the high earners at Sincil Bank the flying winger's departure will ease the pressure on the playing budget as Steve Tilson looks to build a side to regain the Imp's League status next season.
Having played 37 times for the Imps scoring 4 goals, the pacey wingman will no doubt be a loss to Steve Tilson but his dodgy hamstring saw him miss crucial periods last season and perhaps his loss will not be as big as they think.
Chairman Bob Dorrian confirmed to the Lincolnshire Echo that his departure was imminent telling them: 'We are close to a transfer and we should know by the end of the week if it is going to go through.'
Gambians shine in the US Open Cup
Gambian Charleston Battery Seedy Bah
June 15th 2011
Sainey Touray’s Harrisburg City Islanders and Seedy Bah’s Charleston Battery made it through to the second round of the 2011 Lamar Hunt US Cup better known as US Open Cup.
Reading United A.C. drew first blood in the 35th minute off a free kick goal by David Rodriguez and maintained the 1-0 lead at half. In a come-from-behind effort, J.T. Noone scored for the Islanders in the 86th minute to tie the game. In stoppage time, Gambian player Sainey Touray scored the game-winner and gave the Islanders the 2-1 win meanwhile Seedy Bah’s Charleston Battery earned a 2-0 win over Regals FC in the first round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Tuesday night at Blackbaud Stadium in front of a crowd of 1,761. Nicki Paterson scored the first from the penalty spot and Dane Kelly smashed home the second to lift the Battery to victory.
“We tried to pick them up at halftime and get Levi to stay high and it worked, we got the goal. And when you get the first goal that’s the most important,” said Head Coach Mike Anhaeuser.
“In the Open Cup it’s all about you win, you move on, and you don’t look behind you,” said Anhaeuser.
Charleston started off the night with a major chance in the 6th minute. Battery midfielder Brandon Massie met a free kick from Nicki Patterson with a header that just skimmed the crossbar missing the goal by inches.
The Battery opened the scoring in the 47th minute after a penalty kick was called as a result of a push on Battery forward Levi Coleman by Regals FC defender Robert Hernandez. The kick was taken by midfielder Nicki Patterson who scored with a hard shot to the upper right hand corner of the net.
The second Battery goal resulted from a string of passes between the Battery midfield and forwards. Brandon Massie brought the ball up the sideline for a cross into the box to teammate Seedy Bah. Bah received the ball quickly and made a back heel pass to Dane Kelly whose swift cutback left an open shot and goal to the back of the net in the 78th minute.
The win for both teams will take them both to the second round of the Cup where their next opponents will be Rochester Rhinos and Orlando City on June 21st respectively.
New York battles for win over New England Revolution
Kenny Mansally was unable to break through NY RedBulls defence
June 14th 2011
The New York Red Bulls, despite losing a number of players to the Gold Cup tournament, earned full points versus the New England Revolution with a 2-1 victory.
First Half
Friday night action at Red Bull Arena hosted 21,201 spectators to watch the home side take on New England. Both teams came into the game attempting to bounce back from disappointing results from last week; The Red Bulls saw their lead vanish at the death last Saturday for a draw, and the Revolution fell 1-0 to Dallas. It was the Revs fourth loss in a row.
The Red Bulls, continuing their season-long trend, started the game off on the front foot. Luke Rodgers pressured the Revolution’s defense, playing a part in four legitimate chances in the first 12 minutes, his first after just 26 seconds.
But the best early goal scoring opportunity went to New England from the spot. Stand-in center back Stephen Keel clumsily ran into the back of Revolution forward Rajko Lekic, tangling with the attacker and bringing him down clearly in the box in the 32nd minute. Shalrie Joseph stepped up to take, but was saved by keeper Greg Sutton. The New York net minder guessed correctly and put a sturdy hand to the shot. It wasn’t the best effort, but the save was strong.
The Red Bulls were quick to respond. In the 37th minute, a snap movement from the Red Bulls emerged after a smooth combination involving the New York strike partnership. Henry flicked a pass to Rodgers, who settled, took a touch and sent the Frenchman into the box. Henry squared a cross that a trailing Ryan Cochrane bundled into the net with a bad touch for an own goal.
Second Half
The teams went into the tunnel at halftime 1-0. The Revolution could feel a bit unlucky about their defensive letdown following the missed penalty. But overall, the Red Bulls earned the lead.
Five minutes into the second half, the Red Bulls struck a second time. This time it was through a vintage effort from their captain. 'Titi' Henry chased down a long ball from Keel, gathered, and cantered down the left side into the box with the ball at his feet. He cut inside on Cochrane faking a right-footed shot, cut once again onto his left and finished towards the bottom right.
Four minutes later, the Revolution grabbed a goal of their own. Chris Tierney found space and played a swinging ball into the box. Zak Boggs settled the cross out of the air onto his thigh, allowed the ball to settle in front of him, and lashed an unstoppable half volley into the back of the net to make it 2-1.
Revolution manager Steve Nichols introduced Kenny Mansally into the game in the 57th, which injected a bit of pace to the New England side. The substitute forced a fully extended save from beanstalk keeper Greg Sutton on a bending left footed effort that appeared destined for goal.
Both teams shared attacking possession and created a fair amount of chances for the rest of the match, but neither side could find another goal.
The final whistle blew with the score 2-1, meaning New York registered their first win since April. On the converse side, New England’s losing streak stretches to five. The Red Bulls now stand at the top of the Eastern Conference one point clear of Philadelphia, and third in the race for the community shield behind LA Galaxy and Dallas. The Red Bulls travel out west for their next four games, and the Revs will return to Massachusetts for their next two.
It was a massive three points for the Red Bulls, who are currently missing five to six starters due to international duty.
After opening the month of June with back-to-back road games, the Revs will now return to Gillette Stadium for consecutive home games next week. New England’s brief two-game homestand begins on Wednesday, June 15, when Eastern Conference foe Toronto FC visits Foxborough for an 8 p.m. kickoff.
GAMBIAN BASKETBALL PLAYER SCOUTED IN USA
Gambian international basketball player Amadou Sambou
June 13th 2011
Pa Amadou Sambou as he was known by most in The Gambia was born on 19th September 1987 and was raised in a town in The Gambia called, Serrekunda. He attended Serrekunda Primary and Ice Junior and Senior Secondary Schools respectively. The 6ft-10 Gambian who weighs 250 pounds started playing basket ball at an early age Gam Sports Online can reveal.
"Even if it is not for my height, I just love the game. My friends used to encourage me telling me that I need to be a basket ball player in order to represent The Gambia one day, Sambou told Gam Sports Online.
"Consistency and determination is what took me to this level" said Amadou Sambou who came to the USA through a Basketball Scholarship to attend Laurinburg Institute in North Carolina in 2003.
At first, I was not taking them seriously but as the years go by and more people kept telling me the same thing, I decided to take it seriously and followed it as a career. I have been playing for the basket ball teams of all the schools I attended in the Gambia until I came to the USA; I also played for Gambega Basketball team where I served as a key player.
It all happened in 2003 when Coach Rolando of Laurinburg Institute came to the Gambia in search of Basketball players to bring to the USA. I was among 3 lucky ones to be chosen by Rolando because he felt we had most of the qualities he was looking for" explained Pa.
“Dugo”, as some call him attended Laurinburg Institute for one season where he found it difficult playing because he was not use to the American basketball system.
The next year (2004), the dark skin African descendent transferred to John Paul Catholic High School in Tallahassee, Florida where he played for 2 years.
Dugo's basketball career took a complete U-turn when he got use to the American basketball system. He averaged 15 points-15 rebs, during his first year at John Paul and was also awarded the "District Player of the year". He was selected in the All-State-Team and won a trophy as the "Defensive Player of the year".
In his 2nd year, he averaged 13 points/15 rebs, won the "Defensive player of the year" and was selected to represent the State of Florida in the All-American Tournament. He is gradually penetrating the American basketball scene as he is becoming a high demand among high schools and colleges all of whom are always inviting him for visits and work outs through their coaches. He has recently transferred to Mount Zion Christian Academy in Durham, North Carolina which is one of the leading High schools in the USA as far as basketball is concerned. They also have one of the best coaches (Coach Anthony Fozard) who was warming them up for the 2006/2007 basketball season.
Amadou is presently a Junior Student in High School and he is working out with a lot of Coaches from different Colleges and Universities who are interested in recruiting him next year. These Schools include NC State University, Florida State University, Wake Forest University, Penn State University, Florida A&M etc.
"Frankly, I have learnt a lot during my 3 years stay in the USA." said Amadou.
He has the privilege to participate in many National Basket ball Camps throughout the USA and also had the chance to interact and trained by a lot of NBA players such as Shark O'Neal, Laman Odom, David Wesley, Dekembeh Mutombo, Hakim Olujaun etc. He has also shared the same team with Shawn Williams who recently went to the NBA, Langa Langa who is playing for the University of Oklahoma and Libasse Saye who also recently transferred to The Southern Oklahoma State University
Dugo has participated in the Next Level Camp, The Basketball without Borders Camp, David Wesley Training Camp, and Las Vegas NBA Camp all of which were held in different cities.
At different times, Amadou and his teams have traveled and played in the following cities where they either won or did very well. He has traveled to North Carolina, South Carolina, Atlanta, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Florida, Virginia, Maryland, Kentucky, Detroit, Boston, Ohio, Louisiana, California, and Hawaii.
Amadou's slogan is "appreciate-don't hate" which is gaining momentum among his fans as that is what he screams while playing. His goal is to be drafted into the NBA where he shall fully represent The Gambia.
During his free time, he likes to listen to music, watch movies and hang out with his family and friends.
Currently Amadou is a good basketball player at Carl Albert State College in Oklahoma State.
Stabeak Join Race for Jawo
June 13th 2011
Norwegian giants, Stabeak, has joined the race for Gambian striker Amadou Jawo who is unhappy for his lack of playing time at Elfsborg.
A host of Swedish clubs have confirmed their interest in the forward with Kebba Ceesay’s Djurgardens closely monitoring the situation. The bottom rocked club strikers are misfiring and Jawo is touted a potential saviour.
But now the 26-year-old is attracting interest from across Scandinavia, Dif stand a risk of losing out on the attacker, The Norwegian giants are keen on spending cash to consolidate their striking force.
Jawo’s agent has confirmed that there is a lot of bidding from both Danish and Swedish clubs on his client, and Norwegian giants Stabaek have also joined the race.
“There are several clubs that have come to show interest quite recently” said Jonas Svensson.
Jawo was Elfsborg’s most expensive acquisition of the season in 2009. Elfsborg coach recently said, “Jawo will only move on loan. The club is looking to get started with the Europa League and the club wishes to have all its strikers at hand”.
Source: Foroyaa Sports(Sulayman Bah)
Namibia launch Burkina complaint
Herve Zengue (L) is at the centre of the complaint lodged by the NFA
June 8th 2011
Namibia have launched a formal complaint, after suspecting Burkina Faso of fielding an ineligible player in two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Namibia Football Association (NFA) complained to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over Burkina Faso's defender Herve Zengue, who they believe does not meet FIFA rules of eligibility.
Cameroon-born Zengue played in Burkina Faso's 4-1 win over Namibia in Windhoek on Saturday, a result which ended Namibia's hopes of qualifying for next year's Nations Cup.
He also played in a tie game between the two countries on 26 March, which Burkina Faso won 4-0 - just a day after he was granted a Burkinabe passport.
"The fact that he [Zengue] became a Burkina Faso national is not enough to make him eligible to play in this [26 March] match," NFA secretary general Barry Rukoro said.
"There are a lot of other procedures that he must have to adhere to.
"It's fine if he did that but we cannot take chances and accept that he might have done that."
Fifa laws state that a player has to apply to the world governing body for a change of nationality after being granted new citizenship.
Burkina Faso lead the three-team Group F in Nations Cup qualifying, with nine points, and are on course to reach the finals if The Gambia fail to beat Namibia in September.
However, Caf could award the points Burkina Faso took from their two games with Namibia to the Brave Warriors, if Zengue who plays for Russian club Terek Grozny, is found to be ineligible - an outcome which would radically alter the group's outcome.
A transfer of points from one team to the other would see Nambia jump from bottom of the group to top, with six points, leaving Burkina Faso and The Gambia on three points each.
The Stallions' Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte confirmed that Zengue was born in Cameroon, but said the footballer is now a naturalised Burkinabe because his wife comes from that country.
No one from Burkina Faso's football federation was available for comment when contacted.
Namibia have launched a formal complaint, after suspecting Burkina Faso of fielding an ineligible player in two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Namibia Football Association (NFA) complained to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over Burkina Faso's defender Herve Zengue, who they believe does not meet FIFA rules of eligibility.
Cameroon-born Zengue played in Burkina Faso's 4-1 win over Namibia in Windhoek on Saturday, a result which ended Namibia's hopes of qualifying for next year's Nations Cup.
He also played in a tie game between the two countries on 26 March, which Burkina Faso won 4-0 - just a day after he was granted a Burkinabe passport.
"The fact that he [Zengue] became a Burkina Faso national is not enough to make him eligible to play in this [26 March] match," NFA secretary general Barry Rukoro said.
"There are a lot of other procedures that he must have to adhere to.
"It's fine if he did that but we cannot take chances and accept that he might have done that."
Fifa laws state that a player has to apply to the world governing body for a change of nationality after being granted new citizenship.
Burkina Faso lead the three-team Group F in Nations Cup qualifying, with nine points, and are on course to reach the finals if The Gambia fail to beat Namibia in September.
However, Caf could award the points Burkina Faso took from their two games with Namibia to the Brave Warriors, if Zengue who plays for Russian club Terek Grozny, is found to be ineligible - an outcome which would radically alter the group's outcome.
A transfer of points from one team to the other would see Nambia jump from bottom of the group to top, with six points, leaving Burkina Faso and The Gambia on three points each.
The Stallions' Portuguese coach Paulo Duarte confirmed that Zengue was born in Cameroon, but said the footballer is now a naturalised Burkinabe because his wife comes from that country.
No one from Burkina Faso's football federation was available for comment when contacted.
City Islanders edge Seedy Bah’s Charleston 1-0 on late Sainey Touray goal
Sainey Touray
June 6th/2011
Sainey Touray’s snap header finish in the 89th minute off a service from J.T. Noone propelled the Harrisburg City Islanders to a 1-0 victory over the stubborn Charleston Battery in a choppy USL PRO soccer scrap before a crowd of 2,038 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex.
Making his first regular-season start in goal for the City Islanders (3-3-2, 11 points), rookie Phil Tuttle pocketed his first shutout by turning aside three shots. Tuttle’s best stop came in the 61st minute, when he tipped a Sean Flatley effort over the crossbar. Harrisburg’s Jeritt Thayer had a score waved off in the 11th minute. Andrew Dykstra did not record a save for Charleston (5-5-3, 18 points), which played to a 1-1 draw on Friday night at F.C. New York.
Scoreless well into the second half, the City Islanders finally solved a bunkered-in Charleston outfit when Noone gathered a ball near the right edge of the penalty area and served it toward the left edge of the six. Touray, perhaps eight yards out, lifted off and snapped home a header that whistled past a startled Dykstra and settled inside the far post.
Maybe Sainey Touray ought to ask for a new jersey number. Say, perhaps, No. 89.
And while that number might seem rather unique for a professional soccer player to be lugging around on his back, shorts or some other colorful piece of fabric, Touray makes 89 work. Mixes it in nicely with a knack for pocketing important goals in the closing moments of tight USL PRO affairs.
“That’s amazing, but I think he saw me,” said Touray, who celebrated his dramatic finish by slapping hands with just about everybody sitting at the north end of the stadium. “I think he saw me. That was amazing, because I just don’t see him sending that ball. “It’s awesome. That was amazing. I was so happy.” “It’s a great night for everybody. Everybody loved this.” continued Touray.
“I didn’t see him (Touray),” admitted Noone, the former Central Dauphin High School standout and Temple All-American. “I cut it past the defender and I just wanted to hit it into the penalty area because I know that’s a dangerous ball and there’s a very good chance that someone will be there.
“He made a really nice play on it, because the ball was a little deep and he headed it all the way towards the back corner.”
Locked in a scoreless scrap with a Charleston side content to sit and defend — the Battery countered occasionally, sending balls over the top to the dangerous Dane Kelly — the slender Touray somehow found space between center backs Colin Falvey and Sean Flatley.
And when Noone blindly flipped the ball from the right side of the penalty area toward the left edge of the six, Touray took care of the rest by burying the game-winner.
“He’s a goal scorer, we knew that when we got him,” Harrisburg head coach Bill Becher said. “He’s got a nose for the goal, he wants to score. He got caught up waiting for his visa and it was a slow start for him, because he couldn’t play the early games and his first couple games he didn’t look sharp.
“But we knew that he’s a guy that was gonna be able to contribute.”
And despite missing the first three games while waiting for his visa, Touray is contributing to a Harrisburg club that’s just beginning to find its stride. Particularly late in games.
“He just keeps coming on and giving us energy, and that’s exactly what we need,” Noone said. “His last goal, too, was tremendous.”
That last goal would be the one Touray buried in Tuesday night’s 4-2 win over Pittsburgh, a 15-yard strike that creased the underside of the crossbar before falling in. And while that finish provided the City Islanders some breathing room, Saturday’s game was still in doubt following Touray’s goal.
The City Islanders will carry a two-game winning streak into Wednesday night’s tussle with Dayton, the last of three straight home games. Saturday’s victory bumped the City Islanders into third place in the National Division. Harrisburg began the game two spots lower. On loan from Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union, Ryan Richter logged the first 71 minutes for the City Islanders before giving way to Morgan Langley. Touray also scored in Tuesday night’s 4-2 conquest of Pittsburgh, while Noone posted an assist in his second straight game.
Sainey Touray’s snap header finish in the 89th minute off a service from J.T. Noone propelled the Harrisburg City Islanders to a 1-0 victory over the stubborn Charleston Battery in a choppy USL PRO soccer scrap before a crowd of 2,038 on Saturday night at Skyline Sports Complex.
Making his first regular-season start in goal for the City Islanders (3-3-2, 11 points), rookie Phil Tuttle pocketed his first shutout by turning aside three shots. Tuttle’s best stop came in the 61st minute, when he tipped a Sean Flatley effort over the crossbar. Harrisburg’s Jeritt Thayer had a score waved off in the 11th minute. Andrew Dykstra did not record a save for Charleston (5-5-3, 18 points), which played to a 1-1 draw on Friday night at F.C. New York.
Scoreless well into the second half, the City Islanders finally solved a bunkered-in Charleston outfit when Noone gathered a ball near the right edge of the penalty area and served it toward the left edge of the six. Touray, perhaps eight yards out, lifted off and snapped home a header that whistled past a startled Dykstra and settled inside the far post.
Maybe Sainey Touray ought to ask for a new jersey number. Say, perhaps, No. 89.
And while that number might seem rather unique for a professional soccer player to be lugging around on his back, shorts or some other colorful piece of fabric, Touray makes 89 work. Mixes it in nicely with a knack for pocketing important goals in the closing moments of tight USL PRO affairs.
“That’s amazing, but I think he saw me,” said Touray, who celebrated his dramatic finish by slapping hands with just about everybody sitting at the north end of the stadium. “I think he saw me. That was amazing, because I just don’t see him sending that ball. “It’s awesome. That was amazing. I was so happy.” “It’s a great night for everybody. Everybody loved this.” continued Touray.
“I didn’t see him (Touray),” admitted Noone, the former Central Dauphin High School standout and Temple All-American. “I cut it past the defender and I just wanted to hit it into the penalty area because I know that’s a dangerous ball and there’s a very good chance that someone will be there.
“He made a really nice play on it, because the ball was a little deep and he headed it all the way towards the back corner.”
Locked in a scoreless scrap with a Charleston side content to sit and defend — the Battery countered occasionally, sending balls over the top to the dangerous Dane Kelly — the slender Touray somehow found space between center backs Colin Falvey and Sean Flatley.
And when Noone blindly flipped the ball from the right side of the penalty area toward the left edge of the six, Touray took care of the rest by burying the game-winner.
“He’s a goal scorer, we knew that when we got him,” Harrisburg head coach Bill Becher said. “He’s got a nose for the goal, he wants to score. He got caught up waiting for his visa and it was a slow start for him, because he couldn’t play the early games and his first couple games he didn’t look sharp.
“But we knew that he’s a guy that was gonna be able to contribute.”
And despite missing the first three games while waiting for his visa, Touray is contributing to a Harrisburg club that’s just beginning to find its stride. Particularly late in games.
“He just keeps coming on and giving us energy, and that’s exactly what we need,” Noone said. “His last goal, too, was tremendous.”
That last goal would be the one Touray buried in Tuesday night’s 4-2 win over Pittsburgh, a 15-yard strike that creased the underside of the crossbar before falling in. And while that finish provided the City Islanders some breathing room, Saturday’s game was still in doubt following Touray’s goal.
The City Islanders will carry a two-game winning streak into Wednesday night’s tussle with Dayton, the last of three straight home games. Saturday’s victory bumped the City Islanders into third place in the National Division. Harrisburg began the game two spots lower. On loan from Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union, Ryan Richter logged the first 71 minutes for the City Islanders before giving way to Morgan Langley. Touray also scored in Tuesday night’s 4-2 conquest of Pittsburgh, while Noone posted an assist in his second straight game.
Ousman Jallow set to leave Brondby IF
Brøndby IF has chosen not to renew the contracts of five players, who will thus leave the club at the end of June when their contracts expire.
The players who are namely: Mikkel Bischoff, Ousman Jallow, Pierre Kanstrup, Bruno Fressato Cardoso and their star player Beran Camili have not renewed their contracts and thus will quit Brondby IF.
Apart from the five players, it has also long been known that Daniel Wass switched to Portuguese giants Benfica.
A statement at the clubs official website reads: Brondby IF wants to wish Daniel Wass, Mikkel Bischoff, Ousman Jallow, Pierre Kanstrup Bruno Fressato Cardoso and Beran Camili good luck in their career.
The players who are namely: Mikkel Bischoff, Ousman Jallow, Pierre Kanstrup, Bruno Fressato Cardoso and their star player Beran Camili have not renewed their contracts and thus will quit Brondby IF.
Apart from the five players, it has also long been known that Daniel Wass switched to Portuguese giants Benfica.
A statement at the clubs official website reads: Brondby IF wants to wish Daniel Wass, Mikkel Bischoff, Ousman Jallow, Pierre Kanstrup Bruno Fressato Cardoso and Beran Camili good luck in their career.
Convincing victory for Alagie Sosseh’s IK Sirius
Alagie Sosseh celebrating his goal..
Sirius took third straight victory on Saturday when they deservedly won 3-0 away against series leader Karlstad BK and latched on top of the battle. Daniel Blomgren nodded the first goal early in the second half before Alagie Sosseh followed up with two goals.
Sirius took a 3rd straight victory away from home against the somewhat unexpected former league leaders Karlstad BK. After a goalless and relatively even first half to beat Sirius in the second half was the cabinet would be. Three goals in Karlstad later, Sirius emerged as the winners, and boil it down to the three main ingredients, so these were Alagie Sosseh’s target format, back-line discipline and Sirius better physics.
Karlstad is of course the league biggest surprise so far, the newcomers can sometimes open strongly on pure enthusiasm is not unusual, but five wins in six games inspires respect, also they have kept a clean sheet in all these games they won.
"Well, we had the fullest respect for Karlstad, they played smart. Their strength is that they go really fast in depth when they win the ball, although they may not have a similarly wide range as the other top teams, "said Andreas Brännström, Sirius’s coach.
In view of Karlstad recognized strong defensive and supposedly strong self-confidence was to show patience in this game, and it dried Sirius performance on Saturday. The first half was not a feast for the eye, the pace was pretty poor, lots of long balls, and running out of chances.Emir Smajic was close to giving Sirius the lead after Sirelius lost concentration and lost the ball, but Smajic was four inches too late. Karlstad was on the other hand relatively close to taking the lead in a similar situation where Haisem did just prior to a post and managed to bump the ball. But Sirius back line, "heroes of the silent" as Brännström said, had otherwise good control of Karlstad:
"They have some strong strikers, but we were able to maintain them, made excellent tackles when we were to," said Sirius central defender Oscar Zettergren. "Either we set an offside trap for them, or we gain control of the ball. We do it right, and eventually we tired them out, we felt that physics spoke in our favor today. "
Sirius got a good push on the home team during a period of the first half, and although Karlstad struggled out of the grip and smoothing out the game was that Sirius had the match in his hands.
"We know the half time that although it was fairly evenly so Karlstad has had to work extremely hard. It strengthened us to others, "said Brannan.
And the second half took physics, routine and other stuff that separates the wheat from the chaff and it had its toll. Daniel Blomgren was the man who not only nodded into the corner that gave Sirius 1-0, but also worked out that by squeezing the short line.
A short, but something staring-eyed period followed the case where the home side created some half chances. This was interrupted when Sirius extended the lead after just five minutes, then Haisem and Sirelius interacted on the Left, Haisem got a well-targeted shot that the goalkeeper did not get away, instead was a completely clean Alagie Sosseh that nod the ball off to the left.
After 2-0 in the 58th minutes the whole event felt settled, and the match was somewhat stalled. Or to be honest, died completely. Basically, nothing happened until the 85th minute, when Karlstad quite unprovoked offered Sirius on a third goal, Sjöstedt got a back pass, but was stopped by Sosseh and he tried to turn back, but it behaved no better than that Sosseh could easily steal the ball and he had a good shot with it into the goal. And in there somewhere you can see well an indication of which team will hopefully come out on top of the table when autumn comes and which teams will probably not make it. Karlstad made mistakes while Sirius exploited them.
But it was on the whole a really great victory for Sirius, who played just as one must to win this kind of pre-half bit tricky match. Ninety minutes of hard work ground to end down the resistance quite well, and although the figures may have been slightly too big so it was a completely fair victory and a sign of strength from Sirius, who now begin to catch up with the league leaders Vasby United who are with 16 points and Sirius lies 4th in the 14 man league table with 13 points.
Sirius took a 3rd straight victory away from home against the somewhat unexpected former league leaders Karlstad BK. After a goalless and relatively even first half to beat Sirius in the second half was the cabinet would be. Three goals in Karlstad later, Sirius emerged as the winners, and boil it down to the three main ingredients, so these were Alagie Sosseh’s target format, back-line discipline and Sirius better physics.
Karlstad is of course the league biggest surprise so far, the newcomers can sometimes open strongly on pure enthusiasm is not unusual, but five wins in six games inspires respect, also they have kept a clean sheet in all these games they won.
"Well, we had the fullest respect for Karlstad, they played smart. Their strength is that they go really fast in depth when they win the ball, although they may not have a similarly wide range as the other top teams, "said Andreas Brännström, Sirius’s coach.
In view of Karlstad recognized strong defensive and supposedly strong self-confidence was to show patience in this game, and it dried Sirius performance on Saturday. The first half was not a feast for the eye, the pace was pretty poor, lots of long balls, and running out of chances.Emir Smajic was close to giving Sirius the lead after Sirelius lost concentration and lost the ball, but Smajic was four inches too late. Karlstad was on the other hand relatively close to taking the lead in a similar situation where Haisem did just prior to a post and managed to bump the ball. But Sirius back line, "heroes of the silent" as Brännström said, had otherwise good control of Karlstad:
"They have some strong strikers, but we were able to maintain them, made excellent tackles when we were to," said Sirius central defender Oscar Zettergren. "Either we set an offside trap for them, or we gain control of the ball. We do it right, and eventually we tired them out, we felt that physics spoke in our favor today. "
Sirius got a good push on the home team during a period of the first half, and although Karlstad struggled out of the grip and smoothing out the game was that Sirius had the match in his hands.
"We know the half time that although it was fairly evenly so Karlstad has had to work extremely hard. It strengthened us to others, "said Brannan.
And the second half took physics, routine and other stuff that separates the wheat from the chaff and it had its toll. Daniel Blomgren was the man who not only nodded into the corner that gave Sirius 1-0, but also worked out that by squeezing the short line.
A short, but something staring-eyed period followed the case where the home side created some half chances. This was interrupted when Sirius extended the lead after just five minutes, then Haisem and Sirelius interacted on the Left, Haisem got a well-targeted shot that the goalkeeper did not get away, instead was a completely clean Alagie Sosseh that nod the ball off to the left.
After 2-0 in the 58th minutes the whole event felt settled, and the match was somewhat stalled. Or to be honest, died completely. Basically, nothing happened until the 85th minute, when Karlstad quite unprovoked offered Sirius on a third goal, Sjöstedt got a back pass, but was stopped by Sosseh and he tried to turn back, but it behaved no better than that Sosseh could easily steal the ball and he had a good shot with it into the goal. And in there somewhere you can see well an indication of which team will hopefully come out on top of the table when autumn comes and which teams will probably not make it. Karlstad made mistakes while Sirius exploited them.
But it was on the whole a really great victory for Sirius, who played just as one must to win this kind of pre-half bit tricky match. Ninety minutes of hard work ground to end down the resistance quite well, and although the figures may have been slightly too big so it was a completely fair victory and a sign of strength from Sirius, who now begin to catch up with the league leaders Vasby United who are with 16 points and Sirius lies 4th in the 14 man league table with 13 points.
Alagie Sosseh called up by Coach Paul Put in The Gambian national team
Gambian international Alagie Sosseh in a cup match against Brage
Alagie Sosseh has been selected for the Gambia's national team friendly against Gabon which will be held next week training match against Gabon. This will lead to Sosseh missing his new teams’(IK Siruis) home match against IFK Luleå.
Alagie Sosseh will leave Sweden on Monday for Gambia together with Djurgårdens Pa Dembo Touray and Kebba Ceesay and Assyriska’s Mohammed Mbye. He is called to a camp of the Gambian national team by Coach Paul Put, culminating in a friendly match away against Gabon on June 7. The camp is in preparation for upcoming matches in qualifying for the African championships, where The Gambia in the current situation lies second in the group after Burkina Faso.
It will be fun to go to The Gambia. We gather in Banjul and train a few days before we go to Gabon, said Alagie Sosseh.
Alagie has made seven previous appearances in the national team, and thus retains his place despite the fact that he plays in Division 1. A setback, this time is that he misses the next home game, against IFK Luleå on June 5, when it is otherwise free admission thanks to the sponsors. Yes, I miss the catalog at home and it is hard but not much to do about it, "says Alagie.
Alagie Sosseh has so far this year has started in four games and dropped into a fifth and the match scored one goal and played until three. At IK Siruis’s last home against his former team Syrianska IF he opened the scoring when he banged his head up Emir Smajic posts in the cross before he was in the second half repaid the favor by playing up Smajic to 2-0. Personally, I think it is a good season opening, not more. I'll be a player who scores goals. For the team, it will be a good season start particularly if we win on Saturday (away against Karlstad BK)
Alagie Sosseh will leave Sweden on Monday for Gambia together with Djurgårdens Pa Dembo Touray and Kebba Ceesay and Assyriska’s Mohammed Mbye. He is called to a camp of the Gambian national team by Coach Paul Put, culminating in a friendly match away against Gabon on June 7. The camp is in preparation for upcoming matches in qualifying for the African championships, where The Gambia in the current situation lies second in the group after Burkina Faso.
It will be fun to go to The Gambia. We gather in Banjul and train a few days before we go to Gabon, said Alagie Sosseh.
Alagie has made seven previous appearances in the national team, and thus retains his place despite the fact that he plays in Division 1. A setback, this time is that he misses the next home game, against IFK Luleå on June 5, when it is otherwise free admission thanks to the sponsors. Yes, I miss the catalog at home and it is hard but not much to do about it, "says Alagie.
Alagie Sosseh has so far this year has started in four games and dropped into a fifth and the match scored one goal and played until three. At IK Siruis’s last home against his former team Syrianska IF he opened the scoring when he banged his head up Emir Smajic posts in the cross before he was in the second half repaid the favor by playing up Smajic to 2-0. Personally, I think it is a good season opening, not more. I'll be a player who scores goals. For the team, it will be a good season start particularly if we win on Saturday (away against Karlstad BK)
City Islanders Sign Forward Touray
The Harrisburg City Islanders are proud to announce the signing of forward Sainey Touray. Touray will be a late addition to the Islanders' roster for the remainder of the USL PRO season.
Touray comes to the City Islanders after spending last season with the Carolina RailHawks of the USSF Division 2-Pro League. He was also loaned to the Harrisburg City Islanders last year for one game, scoring one goal.
Touray has an impressive career resume, including a trial with one of the English Premier League's elite clubs, Arsenal. In addition tothis, Touray has spent time with Red Bull New York's reserve team, the Gambian First Divison's Wallidan, and the Gambian Second Division's Tallinding United.
Nationally, he has represented his native country of Gambia with the Under-17 and Under-20 squads. Touray has already appeared in one match this season for the Harrisburg City Islanders, starting in this past Saturday's 1-1 tie against the Richmond Kickers.
Touray comes to the City Islanders after spending last season with the Carolina RailHawks of the USSF Division 2-Pro League. He was also loaned to the Harrisburg City Islanders last year for one game, scoring one goal.
Touray has an impressive career resume, including a trial with one of the English Premier League's elite clubs, Arsenal. In addition tothis, Touray has spent time with Red Bull New York's reserve team, the Gambian First Divison's Wallidan, and the Gambian Second Division's Tallinding United.
Nationally, he has represented his native country of Gambia with the Under-17 and Under-20 squads. Touray has already appeared in one match this season for the Harrisburg City Islanders, starting in this past Saturday's 1-1 tie against the Richmond Kickers.
BP at home against Gefle in Swedish Cup
Aziz
Corr Nyang-(pictured) has been responsible for IF Brommapojkarna's three goals
an home games in the Swedish Premier League.
Now we need to deliver the cup too. When the round of 16 of the Swedish Cup draw was balloted, the outcome was that BP were drawn at home to Premier Division Gefle.
- We play on Grimsta May 12 with kick off at 19.00. That it was Gefle implies an equal and uncertain game. We have met many times in recent years. BP usually win, Gefle do so at home against Strömvallen, says BP's club director Ola Danhard.
Height point game in the series, is the 16-second finals (Premier Division clubs play away against the other team) gets a Swedish derby between Landskrona and Helsingborg.
Other games in the round of 16 finals, 11-12 May:
IFK Luleå against Djurgården, Karlslund/Åtvidaberg vs AIK, Vasalund vs Mjällby, Falkenberg vs Syrianska, Sirius vs Kalmar, Norrtälje vs Norrköping, Landskrona vs Helsingborg, Jönköping vs Malmö FF, Limhamn/Bunkeflo vs Göteborg, Älmhult/Öster vs Häcken, Karlstad vs Halmstad, GIFSundsvall vs Gais, Trollhättan vs Trelleborg, Värnamo vs Elfsborg, Ljungskile vs Örebro.
Now we need to deliver the cup too. When the round of 16 of the Swedish Cup draw was balloted, the outcome was that BP were drawn at home to Premier Division Gefle.
- We play on Grimsta May 12 with kick off at 19.00. That it was Gefle implies an equal and uncertain game. We have met many times in recent years. BP usually win, Gefle do so at home against Strömvallen, says BP's club director Ola Danhard.
Height point game in the series, is the 16-second finals (Premier Division clubs play away against the other team) gets a Swedish derby between Landskrona and Helsingborg.
Other games in the round of 16 finals, 11-12 May:
IFK Luleå against Djurgården, Karlslund/Åtvidaberg vs AIK, Vasalund vs Mjällby, Falkenberg vs Syrianska, Sirius vs Kalmar, Norrtälje vs Norrköping, Landskrona vs Helsingborg, Jönköping vs Malmö FF, Limhamn/Bunkeflo vs Göteborg, Älmhult/Öster vs Häcken, Karlstad vs Halmstad, GIFSundsvall vs Gais, Trollhättan vs Trelleborg, Värnamo vs Elfsborg, Ljungskile vs Örebro.
Sanneh Waits for Gambia call-up
Gusmani Sanneh
Born in the suburbs of Spain Gusumani Sanneh developed to be an extra-ordinary player in Spain and has even caught the eyes of Barcelona. He was born in Spain 2th May 1989.
He played in CF BALAGUER and scored 5 goals and was injured half-way in the season.
He also played for CF TREMP in Spain last year and scored 28 goals and he is now playing for CD IBERIA in Spain and he scored 30 Goals both in the league and cup.
Link for Gusmani Sanneh’s news: http://www.cslny.com/newsarticle.php?newsid=196
Link of his team CF TREMP: http://ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_de_Futbol_Tremp
IBERIA EXPRESS
Make that eleven wins now for promotion-bound CD Iberia who routed FC Japan 5-1 on Randalls Island to remain eight points clear atop the Second Division standings.
Ibrahim Yusuf, Gusmani Sanneh, Branden Neal and two-goal hero Devin Roche tallied for the undefeated Spaniards [11-0-1, 34]. Kenta Hidaka got Japan’s face-saver.
Said Iberia’s non-playing captain Juan Lago: “Well fought win for us. Japan made it tough for us but we were able to put the game away late.”
Iberia’s second XI prevailed 4-0, courtesy of Javier Beiro, Alberto Tortosa, Berto “Polanski” Rey and the aforementioned Roche.
The link can be found at: http://manhattanceltic.com/newsarticle.php?newsid=24
Gusmani is waiting for a call-up to The Gambia squad and he can't wait to wear the red shirt of The Gambia on. Speaking to him in an interview, his words were "My dream is to play for The Gambia and i promise i will make the best use of the opportunity if called up and he concludes by saying I LOVE THE GAMBIA".
He played in CF BALAGUER and scored 5 goals and was injured half-way in the season.
He also played for CF TREMP in Spain last year and scored 28 goals and he is now playing for CD IBERIA in Spain and he scored 30 Goals both in the league and cup.
Link for Gusmani Sanneh’s news: http://www.cslny.com/newsarticle.php?newsid=196
Link of his team CF TREMP: http://ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Club_de_Futbol_Tremp
IBERIA EXPRESS
Make that eleven wins now for promotion-bound CD Iberia who routed FC Japan 5-1 on Randalls Island to remain eight points clear atop the Second Division standings.
Ibrahim Yusuf, Gusmani Sanneh, Branden Neal and two-goal hero Devin Roche tallied for the undefeated Spaniards [11-0-1, 34]. Kenta Hidaka got Japan’s face-saver.
Said Iberia’s non-playing captain Juan Lago: “Well fought win for us. Japan made it tough for us but we were able to put the game away late.”
Iberia’s second XI prevailed 4-0, courtesy of Javier Beiro, Alberto Tortosa, Berto “Polanski” Rey and the aforementioned Roche.
The link can be found at: http://manhattanceltic.com/newsarticle.php?newsid=24
Gusmani is waiting for a call-up to The Gambia squad and he can't wait to wear the red shirt of The Gambia on. Speaking to him in an interview, his words were "My dream is to play for The Gambia and i promise i will make the best use of the opportunity if called up and he concludes by saying I LOVE THE GAMBIA".
Black footballer racially abused
Mark,left and Ford,right were charged.
A TALENTED black footballer was chased and attacked with bricks and stones by a "lynch mob" in Cheltenham.
Shouting vile racial abuse at Gambian-born Brehima Diaby, a gang of at least seven youths threw bricks at him as he fled from the pitch, Gloucester Crown Court heard.
One of the missiles hit him in the stomach and he fell to the ground – where he was set on and "pounded" by the gang.
Prosecutor Lisa Hennessy said even when the attackers fled, as police arrived on the scene, they continued to throw bricks and another of them hit the Sainsbury's site manager.
Mr Diaby suffered extensive cuts to both lips and his gums and had to have stitches inside and outside his mouth. He also had an ankle cut.
In the dock were two of his attackers – both players in the team that had faced Mr Diaby's side that day in the community football match in Pittville Park. Dean Ford, 18, of Hudson Street, and Luke Marks, 20, of Folly Lane, both admitted affray on June 24 last year.
Sentencing them both to youth custody – Ford for 15 months and Marks for 12 months – Judge William Hart told them: "This was an appalling piece of thuggery with the clearest racist overtones. Mr Diaby was subjected to an unimaginable ordeal. What made you do what you did appears to be first that he ran rings around you on the field of play and second that he is black."
Mrs Hennessy had told the court: "This is a somewhat disquieting case. It was a football match which ended up turning into a lynch mob."
She said Mr Diaby had played in defence during the match.
"He repeatedly prevented Marks and another player from scoring a goal," she explained. "This clearly annoyed Marks, who began shouting abuse at him. Mr Diaby went over to Marks and asked him to stop swearing at him. He put the palm of his hand on the back of his neck as he made this request."
She then said Marks pushed his hand away and hurled racist abuse at him, before flying into a temper. Ford then joined in and both of them shouted: "Go back where you came from," the prosecutor added.
"Mr Diaby decided it was time to leave and collected up his belongings," she said.
"While he did so, Marks and Ford ran over to a group of friends. They then began picking up bricks and stones. Without warning the whole group, consisting of at least seven people, walked back and then broke into a run. "They were shouting racial abuse at Mr Diaby, while Marks, who was leading them, encouraged them to 'get him'.
"One of them threw a brick which hit Mr Diaby in the stomach and he fell to the ground. He picked it up and the group surrounded him shouting and swearing.
"Marks rugby-tackled Mr Diaby to the ground and he has no recollection of what happened next. One witness, Aditya Rai, says: 'They all fell on top of him and began pounding him in and around the face area with the bricks they had in their hands'."
Mr Diaby was taken to hospital by ambulance.
For Marks, Sarah Jenkins handed the court "glowing references" for him and said he had taken steps to break away from the group involved in the incident. For Ford, Carole Knotts said: "This was not an incident that he started and that is to his credit – although very little else is."
Shouting vile racial abuse at Gambian-born Brehima Diaby, a gang of at least seven youths threw bricks at him as he fled from the pitch, Gloucester Crown Court heard.
One of the missiles hit him in the stomach and he fell to the ground – where he was set on and "pounded" by the gang.
Prosecutor Lisa Hennessy said even when the attackers fled, as police arrived on the scene, they continued to throw bricks and another of them hit the Sainsbury's site manager.
Mr Diaby suffered extensive cuts to both lips and his gums and had to have stitches inside and outside his mouth. He also had an ankle cut.
In the dock were two of his attackers – both players in the team that had faced Mr Diaby's side that day in the community football match in Pittville Park. Dean Ford, 18, of Hudson Street, and Luke Marks, 20, of Folly Lane, both admitted affray on June 24 last year.
Sentencing them both to youth custody – Ford for 15 months and Marks for 12 months – Judge William Hart told them: "This was an appalling piece of thuggery with the clearest racist overtones. Mr Diaby was subjected to an unimaginable ordeal. What made you do what you did appears to be first that he ran rings around you on the field of play and second that he is black."
Mrs Hennessy had told the court: "This is a somewhat disquieting case. It was a football match which ended up turning into a lynch mob."
She said Mr Diaby had played in defence during the match.
"He repeatedly prevented Marks and another player from scoring a goal," she explained. "This clearly annoyed Marks, who began shouting abuse at him. Mr Diaby went over to Marks and asked him to stop swearing at him. He put the palm of his hand on the back of his neck as he made this request."
She then said Marks pushed his hand away and hurled racist abuse at him, before flying into a temper. Ford then joined in and both of them shouted: "Go back where you came from," the prosecutor added.
"Mr Diaby decided it was time to leave and collected up his belongings," she said.
"While he did so, Marks and Ford ran over to a group of friends. They then began picking up bricks and stones. Without warning the whole group, consisting of at least seven people, walked back and then broke into a run. "They were shouting racial abuse at Mr Diaby, while Marks, who was leading them, encouraged them to 'get him'.
"One of them threw a brick which hit Mr Diaby in the stomach and he fell to the ground. He picked it up and the group surrounded him shouting and swearing.
"Marks rugby-tackled Mr Diaby to the ground and he has no recollection of what happened next. One witness, Aditya Rai, says: 'They all fell on top of him and began pounding him in and around the face area with the bricks they had in their hands'."
Mr Diaby was taken to hospital by ambulance.
For Marks, Sarah Jenkins handed the court "glowing references" for him and said he had taken steps to break away from the group involved in the incident. For Ford, Carole Knotts said: "This was not an incident that he started and that is to his credit – although very little else is."
Njogu wants to be 'important'
Notts County's latest signing, Njogu Demba, hopes to play a bigger part in tonight's fixture against Peterborough in the English League One.
Demba made his debut from the bench on Saturday, in the Magpies' 2-0 loss to Leyton Orient.
The Gambian international didn't have much time to impress but insists that he's fit and ready to spearhead the Notts attack for a full 90 minutes.
"I've been here for three or four weeks to get in good shape, and I've been working with the fitness coaches and the boys," he told Magpie Player.
"I feel I'm fit now physically and mentally I'm ready, I just have to prove it to the boss that I want to play and I hope to be part of his team.
"It wasn't a difficult choice for me to come to Notts County, because I know they are a good team.
"I want to score a lot of goals and be an important player here."
SOURCE: www.gambiasports.gm
Demba made his debut from the bench on Saturday, in the Magpies' 2-0 loss to Leyton Orient.
The Gambian international didn't have much time to impress but insists that he's fit and ready to spearhead the Notts attack for a full 90 minutes.
"I've been here for three or four weeks to get in good shape, and I've been working with the fitness coaches and the boys," he told Magpie Player.
"I feel I'm fit now physically and mentally I'm ready, I just have to prove it to the boss that I want to play and I hope to be part of his team.
"It wasn't a difficult choice for me to come to Notts County, because I know they are a good team.
"I want to score a lot of goals and be an important player here."
SOURCE: www.gambiasports.gm
A new Gambian player scouted in Malmo,Sweden.
Dawda Ngum a.k.a Mad Beck
He has surprised everyone this year and gone from a rough potential talent into a hard, slow motion machine has only been off the starting line-up at RELEASE. "Didi" is much of this year's success.
Now, we wanted him in the "chair" and here he is:
Name: Dawda Ngum
Lives: Nydala
Age: 20
Origin: Gambia
Come to the Olympic from: Gambia U-15 national team
From foul alert collectors to rugged midfield dynamo. Explain Conversion!
I like the rough stuff and the Gambia, the game is very tough and hard, the transition was not easy and my brother's father Paul talked a lot with me, and Benny and Hulda course has meant a great deal with their calls ......
How tired were you at Olympic last winter, was IFK Malmo near ..
I was pretty tired of sitting on the bench, I felt I wanted more playing time to develop, and when I jumped in, it was sometimes no more than 5 minutes remaining, hard to prove something then .....
What percentage have you developed this year?
It is up to others to judge, I'm glad Hulda given me a lot of playing time and confidence, and it has even developed my own self-confidence, I have been training hard almost every day of the week in addition to regular training sessions, with both self-running and friends on the team ......
Who should have the highest praise for everything came off this year?
Many will praise ..... For me personally, I have trained hard and am not surprised. I have always believed in myself.
Coaching-wise to Hulda have credit for good workouts, good talk and attitude that has given me confidence.
Lagmässigt that I have very good teammates around me and without them, I had obviously not succeeded .... And most probably depends on Baptje hahaha
Next year, the contract is finished?
Can not answer that yet .....
What do you get better at and what do you consider your greatest strength?
I want to be better at everything ..... My greatest strength I never give up, I win every battle and fighting. Has good condition ..... hate to lose
Your origin?
I was born in Gambia. Come to Sweden in 2008. Lives with Mom and my brother Erik and sometimes at Paul .....
How many "points" gives you Huldah?
10 points! What else !?...
He has moved up two divisions in two years plus I got the chance this year.
Next friend who becomes ordinary in our A-team?
If they continue to train hard, I hope that Hulda highlights some of,,,, To me it is hard to judge who ... It may be Huldas task ....
The judges are well not your best friends. Have they said anything inappropriate / abusive during games?
Have no problem with the judges as to whether they said anything inappropriate, the judges judge and I can just play my own game and accept their decisions right or wrong .....
What off the football makes you feel good?
Being with friends, blah part of the team. Also find the fun things with family, go on vacation and stuff ...
The series' best:
Forward? Burda
Back? Adnan
Midfielder? Dawda
Goalkeeper? Johan
Who will win three of the top?
I hope I win, if not my exclusions maybe I had been at the top ... But no matter which of us wins, I am happy with my season and both Adnan and Burda has been great ... Maybe it's a tie
If you had to choose three players to sign for next season, who?
It may Hulda do if he continues. Better coaches bring in players they think of .... My job is to train and win games.
Thank you for Dawda tide we borrowed and good luck against Nosaby
Now, we wanted him in the "chair" and here he is:
Name: Dawda Ngum
Lives: Nydala
Age: 20
Origin: Gambia
Come to the Olympic from: Gambia U-15 national team
From foul alert collectors to rugged midfield dynamo. Explain Conversion!
I like the rough stuff and the Gambia, the game is very tough and hard, the transition was not easy and my brother's father Paul talked a lot with me, and Benny and Hulda course has meant a great deal with their calls ......
How tired were you at Olympic last winter, was IFK Malmo near ..
I was pretty tired of sitting on the bench, I felt I wanted more playing time to develop, and when I jumped in, it was sometimes no more than 5 minutes remaining, hard to prove something then .....
What percentage have you developed this year?
It is up to others to judge, I'm glad Hulda given me a lot of playing time and confidence, and it has even developed my own self-confidence, I have been training hard almost every day of the week in addition to regular training sessions, with both self-running and friends on the team ......
Who should have the highest praise for everything came off this year?
Many will praise ..... For me personally, I have trained hard and am not surprised. I have always believed in myself.
Coaching-wise to Hulda have credit for good workouts, good talk and attitude that has given me confidence.
Lagmässigt that I have very good teammates around me and without them, I had obviously not succeeded .... And most probably depends on Baptje hahaha
Next year, the contract is finished?
Can not answer that yet .....
What do you get better at and what do you consider your greatest strength?
I want to be better at everything ..... My greatest strength I never give up, I win every battle and fighting. Has good condition ..... hate to lose
Your origin?
I was born in Gambia. Come to Sweden in 2008. Lives with Mom and my brother Erik and sometimes at Paul .....
How many "points" gives you Huldah?
10 points! What else !?...
He has moved up two divisions in two years plus I got the chance this year.
Next friend who becomes ordinary in our A-team?
If they continue to train hard, I hope that Hulda highlights some of,,,, To me it is hard to judge who ... It may be Huldas task ....
The judges are well not your best friends. Have they said anything inappropriate / abusive during games?
Have no problem with the judges as to whether they said anything inappropriate, the judges judge and I can just play my own game and accept their decisions right or wrong .....
What off the football makes you feel good?
Being with friends, blah part of the team. Also find the fun things with family, go on vacation and stuff ...
The series' best:
Forward? Burda
Back? Adnan
Midfielder? Dawda
Goalkeeper? Johan
Who will win three of the top?
I hope I win, if not my exclusions maybe I had been at the top ... But no matter which of us wins, I am happy with my season and both Adnan and Burda has been great ... Maybe it's a tie
If you had to choose three players to sign for next season, who?
It may Hulda do if he continues. Better coaches bring in players they think of .... My job is to train and win games.
Thank you for Dawda tide we borrowed and good luck against Nosaby