By: Ben TC Brooks| River Gee County Correspondent
Fish-Town City, River Gee County – Tuesday, May 06, 2025 – As residents of River Gee County reflect on the exhilarating match on May 05, 2024, which saw the County Team secured their first championship title in football by defeating Lofa County, there are renewed calls for reconciliation, unity, and collaboration if the county hopes to replicate its success in the not too distant future.
It has been a year since River Gee County made history by triumphing over Lofa in a dramatic 4-1 penalty shootout after a tense 90 minutes of play and extra time that ended in a stalemate.
Richard Wesseh, a sports enthusiast and farmer from Tienpo Junction, formerly known as Combat Gate, emphasizes that for River Gee County’s team to achieve further success in the National County Sports Meet, local leadership and the Legislative Caucus must mend relationships with everyone, particularly the supporters of last year’s championship victory.
Wesseh pointed out that following the County Team’s first-ever Cup win, there was widespread dissatisfaction and discord among players, steering committee members, coaches, and even supporters about the inadequate management of the funds raised.
He stated, “Without reconciliation between these two groups within the county, regaining the championship will be a challenging task, if not an illusion.”
Wesseh also highlighted the disappointing performance of River Gee County in the 2024/25 edition of the national sports competition, where they did not advance beyond the group stage held in Grand Cape Mount County; an outcome that left many residents and supporters feeling extremely dissatisfied and sad.
“I’m not accusing our local leadership and county legislative caucus members of corruption, but there have been allegations regarding the mismanagement of funds raised. They should hold a town hall meeting to clarify how the funds were collected and utilized, and work towards reconciliation,” he concluded.
An Unforgettable Match
The Southeast boys started strong, taking the lead with a goal from striker Blamo Weah in the 11th minute, but Lofa equalized in the 32nd minute thanks to James Tarpeh. Both teams showcased impressive football, resulting in a 1-1 tie at halftime. After the break, Lofa took the lead again with a diving header from Tarpeh, but River Gee’s Jusu Dukuly equalized in stoppage time, bringing the match to a thrilling 2-2 draw after 90 minutes of regulation and extra time.
The match took place at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Stadium in Paynesville, where a large crowd gathered to watch the intense competition unfold.
The Drama of Penalty Shootouts
The game featured back-and-forth action as both sides defended and attacked diligently. After the extra 30 minutes, the match was decided by penalties. The Fish-Town boys converted four out of their five penalties, while Lofa missed two of their attempts, leading to a 4-1 victory for River Gee, much to the delight of their enthusiastic supporters in the stands.
During the quarter and semifinal rounds, River Gee had previously eliminated Bong and Grand Bassa, earning their spot in the final. The championship match on May 5, 2024, marked River Gee County’s first title and their second appearance in the final since their establishment in 2000.
At that moment, River Gee’s coach, Daniel Sasley, not only secured a title for the county but also set a personal milestone, delivering the county’s first-ever County Meet trophy. Sasley previously won the championship with Grand Kru County in 2019.
Community Impact and Celebrations
Since that historic victory, River Gee County has witnessed a remarkable boost in community pride and unity.
The County’s victory for the first time had sparked enthusiasm among a new generation of and has led to heightened interest in sports programs within educational institutions and community settings. Young players are now embracing football with renewed zeal, aiming to emulate their heroes.
Celebrating the Success
Community leaders have acknowledged the positive influence this victory has had on the county’s development goals, all under the guidance of Superintendent Milk Swengbe.
“This achievement has not only brought us happiness but has also highlighted our skills and determination to the entire country. It has inspired our youth to chase their dreams, not merely in sports but in every aspect of life. We are dedicated to investing in sports programs to continue fostering talent and ambition,” stated local leaders during the celebratory period of 2024.
Disappointing Outcome for NCSM 2024/2025 Edition
Unfortunately, the reigning champion of the National County Sports Meet for 2023/2024 was unable to defend its title, getting eliminated in a group stage alongside host Grand Cape Mount County after managing a draw against the seven-time champion, Nimba County, in their opening match.
Looking Forward
As River Gee County looks back on this important achievement, efforts are being made to build upon their success. The aim is to establish a solid foundation for a stronger team while emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation within the county.
However, local authorities are yet to announce new funding or the formation of a steering committee since the Ministry of Youth and Sports released details for the 2025/26 edition of the National County Sports Meet.
Since the team’s exit from the 2024/25 NCSM, Tyra Johnson, the head of the steering committee, has yet to deliver a comprehensive report to the residents and supporters of the River Gee County team.
Fixtures for the 2025/26 National County Sports Meet
In the upcoming 2025/26 edition of the National County Sports Meet, River Gee will face off against host Maryland, River Cess and Grand Kru, competing in Group A.
The triumph of River Gee County in the football segment of the 2024 National County Sports Meet stands as a significant milestone that goes beyond just a sporting event. It has evolved into a beacon of hope, resilience, and the possibility of achieving greatness within the county.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita| Editor-In-Chief
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