Former Gambian international and CEO of ESOHNA Academy, Ebrima Sohna, has accused some referees officiating in the West Coast Region Third Division League of deliberately making decisions against his club during crucial matches.

Ebrima Sohna made the remarks in a post published on his Facebook account, where he expressed frustration over what he described as repeated controversial officiating against ESOHNA Academy.

“Not all, but I have noticed a selected group of referees who are deliberately chosen during our matches to ensure results go against the Esohna Academy,” he wrote.

The former midfielder, who returned to The Gambia after a long football career abroad, insisted his project was created to support young Gambians through grassroots football. “I didn’t come back for personal interest, I returned to support the kids and the future of tomorrow, including your own children,” he stated.

Sohna further alleged that ESOHNA Academy have suffered controversial officiating decisions in recent matches in the West Coast Region Third Division League.

“In two consecutive matches now, we were leading only for incorrect last-minute penalties to be awarded against us, forcing draws and dropped points,” he said.

“Just yesterday, the boys scored two clear goals, which was confirmed even by the opponents yet still both goals were wrongly disallowed by the officials.”

Despite his frustrations, Sohna maintained that the academy project will continue in The Gambia. “This project is for Gambians and it will remain here,” he added.

Ebrima Sohna also urged referees to follow the example of legendary Gambian referee Papa Bakary Gassama and uphold professionalism in local football.

By Ebrima KB Sonko