Jarra Soma-based Hart FC have gone five points clear following their 3-0 win over Serekunda FA. After the final whistle, Omar Jammeh spoke to the Alkamba Times Sports Desk. Jammeh was voted the Second Division January/February coach of the month by the Gambia Football Coaches Association.
Hart FC, who are in their second season in the National League Two, have only lost twice in the league. A 2-1 away defeat to BK Milan and a narrow 1-0 defeat against Wagadu. However, Hart is not only topping the league log, but they are ranked second best defensive team in the league, conceding only two goals in 18 games while having the best attack, scoring 26 goals in 18 matches, with Ismaila Saidykhan netting 9 of them.
Hart’s existence is a symbol of the decentralization of football, with many admirers rooting for the academy boys to get promoted to the First Division.
Omar Jammeh talked about trying to go beyond a top-five finish, team confidence, recruitment, and the blueprint of Hart FC.
“Our target this season is to win the league and compete very well. What we saw in the team during the preseason was satisfying. It shows us that if we fight, we can achieve our target. Our test game against Fortune FC reveals lots of potential and credentials going forward.” He noted.
“The game against Medina FC in Banjul, which we won 2-1, was a game that sent us to the to the summit of the table. The spirit within the team showed me the confidence to go far this season.”
“Harts is full of kids; they love the game and want to take it to another level. That’s why we have targets.”
Jammeh further reiterated that his team is spoilt for choice as they have equally fantastic players on the bench.
“Our reinforcement is not about experience but who can do the work. We have lots of players on the bench right now who are knocking for their chances.”
“Yes, we are aware of teams struggling, especially when they come from rural areas. They end up selling the club, and so forth. For Hart, there is no money, but we want to motivate our players by minimizing having a junk on youths just sitting on ghettos. If there is a second-division club within that they can engage in, that’s why Hart FC was established,” Jammeh added.
Jammeh also stressed that he idolized Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola as well as French and Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane as he follows them keenly in his quest to get to the apex of his coaching career.
“I love Guardiola and Zidane. I admire them and I want to get to that level.”
He again mentioned that his home ground is a fortress, and they go all out for a win.
“This is our home; we play and train here. There will be a big question mark if a team comes here and beats us. However, we prepare for every game, and we have been working hard to make the Jarra Soma mini stadium a fortress.”
“I was very happy to win coach of the month; the credit goes to the performance of the team. It kept everyone talking. We have a fantastic president, a great technical team, and fantastic fans; this is a victory for Jarra,” he concluded.
