Gunjur Dabanani stunned Brikama Zone with a 5-4 post-match penalty shootout victory after an entertaining 1-1 draw in regulation time, securing their place in the semi-finals of the West Coast Region Zonal Championship.

The match opened with early drama as Brikama forced an own goal in the 4th minute, only for the referee to overturn it for an alleged foul.

Gunjur capitalised moments later when Jerreh Camara caught the Brikama defence napping and slotted home in the 6th minute.

Brikama took charge thereafter, with Bubacarr “Morata” Sanneh missing a glorious chance after going one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Sanneh was later brought down near the box, but despite strong protests for a penalty, the referee awarded only a free kick.

The second half produced even more talking points. As Brikama pushed forward, both Bubacarr Sanneh and Gunjur’s Dawda Sowe thrilled the crowd with their explosive runs and amazing dribblings.

Gunjur thought they had doubled their lead when the ball hit the back of the net, but the assistant referee flagged for offside, even though it appeared the final touch came from a Brikama defender playing the ball backwards.

Brikama eventually levelled when Sanneh won and converted a penalty. The home side later felt aggrieved again as Ismaila Ceesay appeared to be fouled in the box, but the referee waved away the appeal.

With the match tied 1-1 after regulation time, the contest went to penalties. Gunjur remained composed to win 5-4, earning a semi-final showdown with Tujereng Zone, who defeated Kombo Sillah Zone 1-0 in the day’s other fixture.

Ebrima KB Sonko