Pierre Sanyang was the hero as Marakissa Football Club clinched the Central II Knockout Tournament title with a dramatic 2-1 win over MJ Football Academy.

Pierre Sanyang opened the scoring in the 10th minute from the penalty spot, before MJ’s Muhammed Batchilly fired home a stunning equaliser. But just as the match seemed headed for penalties, Sanyang rose highest in stoppage time to glance in Cherno’s pinpoint cross securing the trophy for Marakissa.

The victory earned Marakissa FC a giant trophy and a cash prize of D15,000, while runners-up MJ Academy received D10,000 as a consolation.

“Our success is down to hard work, dedication, and training. There’s no magic just determination and proper management,” said Ebrima O. Colley, assistant coach of Marakissa FC.

“Pierre is exceptional. The head coach considered substituting him, but I advised against it because Pierre is always capable of scoring at any moment.”

MJ Academy’s head coach, Abubacarr Daffeh, reflected on the defeat after Pierre’s brilliant win it for Marakissa. 

“We came to win, but luck wasn’t on our side. Tactical changes helped us equalise, but Marakissa grabbed it late.”