By: Madi Seneghore
Colley Stars were crowned champions of the GFF-APS Wallet Men’s Second Division League on the final day of the season, edging Kanifing East on goal difference after a dramatic conclusion to the campaign.
Colley Stars secured the title following a goalless draw against AJ Soccer, while their closest challengers, Kanifing East, suffered a shock 1-0 defeat to Wagadu FC. The two sides finished level on points, but Colley Stars claimed the championship with a superior goal difference.
Gambia Football Federation (GFF) President Lamin Kaba Bajo presented the champions with the league trophy, gold medals and a cash prize of D500,000, while runners-up Kanifing East received D250,000.
Kanifing East’s title hopes were dashed at the Serrekunda East Mini Stadium, where Abubacarr Njie scored the only goal of the match to hand Wagadu FC a vital victory that secured the club’s survival.
Baalor Sarr finished third after drawing 1-1 with North Star. Kemo B.S. Ceesay gave Baalor the lead before Lamin Badjie equalised for the hosts early in the second half.
Sibanor United booked the final promotion playoff place with a 2-0 victory over Menmar Banjul United. Francis Gomez opened the scoring before Bakary Kujabi added a second to seal the win.
Elite United also qualified for the promotion playoffs after coming from behind to defeat 10-man RS Tallinding 4-1. Trailing at halftime, Elite mounted an impressive comeback through a hat-trick from Pierre Tamba and another goal by Muhammed Gomez. RS Tallinding’s task became even more difficult after Ebrima Sowe was sent off.
Elsewhere, SuwoKono FC secured their Second Division status with a convincing 3-0 victory, courtesy of goals from Musa Ceesay, Ebrima Sanneh and Bakary Kora. The result condemned Marimoo Pakfood to a second successive relegation.
Serrekunda United also ensured their survival after goals from Omar Jallow and Kalilu Barry earned them a crucial victory over Wallidan.
Already-relegated Serrekunda FC produced one of the most remarkable comebacks of the season, recovering from three goals down to draw with The Army. Abdoulie Joof scored twice and Muhammed Bojang added another to put The Army in complete control before Amadou Jaiteh, Yusupha Jaiteh and Ebrima Sory Camara scored to rescue a point for Serrekunda FC.
The final standings confirmed Colley Stars as champions, while Baalor Sarr, Elite United and Sibanor United advanced to the promotion playoffs. At the bottom, Gunjur United, Marimoo Pakfood and Serrekunda FC were relegated to the Third Division.