By: Kemo Kanyi
Wallidan FC and Wagadu Football Club returned to winning ways, while North Star secured successive victories as week 17 of the GFF-APS Wallet men’s second division league got underway on Wednesday. Gunjur United held Unique Global to a 1-1 draw.
Wallidan FC produced a spirited performance to defeat Serrekunda United 2-1 at the Bakau Mini Stadium, ending a run of four successive losses. Alagie Gibba’s brace proved decisive. Gibba opened the scoring by capitalizing on a misplaced pass from Serrekunda United goalkeeper Cherno Sanyang, sending the ball into an empty net to give Wallidan a 1-0 lead at halftime. Muhammed Lowe converted a penalty in the 75th minute to level for Serrekunda United, but Wallidan regained the advantage two minutes later when Gibba tapped in a close-range finish following a precise left-footed cross from Salifu Bayo.
North Star continued their winning form with a 1-0 away victory over Baalor Sarr at the Dimphy’s Memorial Football Complex in Faraba Bantang. Folomo Beavogui scored the match-winner in the 31st minute after a defensive error from Baalor Sarr allowed him to slot the ball into an empty net, denying the home side a chance to close the gap on league leaders Colley Stars.
Wagadu FC edged past Kanifing East 1-0 thanks to Abubacarr Njie’s strike deep into first-half stoppage time, leaving Kanifing East unable to challenge the top positions.
Meanwhile, basement side Gunjur United drew 1-1 with Unique Global at the Ousman Saho Football Field in Old Yundum. Babucarr Gibba put Gunjur ahead in the 59th minute, but Modou Lamin Ngum scored five minutes later to rescue a point for Unique Global.
Looking ahead, league leaders Colley Stars FC have a chance to extend their advantage when they face AJ Soccer in Jarra Soma on Thursday. Serrekunda FC will host Gambia Armed Forces at the Live Your Dreams Academy Field in Basori, while Menmar Banjul United entertain Sibanor United in Bakau. Marimoo Pakfood FC take on SuwoKono Football Club at the Ousman Saho Football Field, and RS Tallinding FC host an in-form Elite United FC at the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium to conclude week 17.