Berewuelng beat the Red Scorpions 2-0 and closed the gap to four points after Saturday’s fixtures of the GFF Female First Division. Second-half goals from Mariama Ceesay and Kumba Kassama capped by the top-notch performance of Goalkeeper Diminga Mendy, handed the Brikama-based club their first victory in the club’s history over the champions.
Coach Fakebba spoke to the Alkamba Times following the historical record win in Box Bar.
“This victory has brought us a lot of joy. We are very proud of ourselves. We have been trying to break this streak of not winning against the Red Scorpions for three seasons now. We got two of our key players suspended after the TMT game. They are permanent starters on the team. Our defensive midfielder got sick too. Our wingback got a foot injury, which only allowed her to play a few minutes. With these absentees, there have been lots of talks about the buildup to the match. With many predicting we will lose this game, we believe football is all about preparation. Hence, we knew the types of players available, then we changed.” The coach stressed.
” Because Berewuelng doesn’t sit back, it became a different ball game; we sat back and marked them man to man; we gave them all the respect they deserved. We capitalised on the errors they made. The league is not over; what’s most important is for the team to stay focused. Winning red scorpions doesn’t mean we should feel big. Let’s continue the momentum, go forward, and see what is possible along the way.”
The coach went on to praise the players who carried out the task.
“I was very impressed by so many young players that didn’t have playing time, but we brought them in and told them that this is football. I wasn’t even expecting this kind of shift in performances from them.”
“I remember vividly that Diminga and Kumba cried so much after our last game, and I told them to wipe their tears. Today they played extremely well. I always remind them to play for themselves and for the team, and it works for them.” He added.
Berewuleng will face Police FC, while the Red Scorpions will take on Future Bi. Red Scorpions coach Choro Mengba challenged the champions to show character going forward.
“Berewuleng came for a draw, and anything that comes their way, they will be satisfied. Their captain did extremely well, controlled the game, and played a mature game. It’s a wake-up call to the team because if we want to win the league again, we need to step up because losing twice so far is not for Red Scorpions. There are specialists who can take penalties; what was stopping them from taking the kicks?”
Goalkeeper Mendy, who saved a penalty, said they came for Red Scorpions.
“We prepared for this clash; they have been beating us home and away, and we told ourselves they could beat us away but not on our home ground. I believe I would save the penalty because of the players body language; everything is possible, the race is not over, and we want to push for the title.”
