Young Scorpions Edge Sohna F.A to Clinch Essau Juniors Nawettan League Title

A giant trophy and a cash prize of D25,000.

In a final that had all the hallmarks of a classic, Young Scorpions triumphed over Sohna Football Academy in a tense and fiercely contested showdown to claim the Gibril Sillah-sponsored Essau Juniors Nawettan League title.

Right from the opening whistle, both teams set a fierce tempo, but it was Sohna FC who looked the brighter side in the early exchanges. Their dominance, however, proved short-lived, as the Young Scorpions steadily found their rhythm, wrestled back control, and began to dictate the flow of the game.

D25,000 runners-up prize was awarded to Sohna FA.

But just as the first half seemed destined to remain goalless, a flashpoint changed the course of the game. Muhammed Njie was shown a straight red card deep into the half for an off-the-ball incident—his shoulder challenge leaving an opponent with a bloodied nose. After a brief consultation with his assistant, referee Modou Serge wasted no time in reaching for his pocket, reducing the Young Scorpions to ten men. Moments later, the halftime whistle blew, setting the stage for a second half brimming with tension and drama.

# Second Half: Defiant Scorpions Strike First

With their numerical advantage, Sohna FA looked primed to take control of the second half. But football, ever unpredictable, had other ideas. The Young Scorpions, down to ten men, refused to crumble—defending with resilience, attacking with purpose, and playing as if they were still at full strength.

Then, in the 54th minute, the deadlock was finally broken—but against the run of play. A teasing cross was floated into the box, and Sohna FA goalkeeper Muhammed Sankareh misjudged the flight, fumbling his attempted claim. Quickest to react was Lamin ‘Lang’ Ceesay, who pounced on the loose ball and slotted home a simple tap-in. The Young Scorpions, defying expectations, had snatched the lead, igniting wild celebrations among their supporters.

# Sohna FA’s Late Push Falls Short

Knowing the magnitude of their task, Sohna FA head coach Ba Jim Jammeh made a series of attacking substitutions in pursuit of an equalizer. However, the defensive duo of Sulayman Jammeh and the young Ebrima Sonko stood like an unbreakable fortress, repelling wave after wave of Sohna’s relentless attacks.

As the minutes ticked away, desperation grew for Sohna FA, but they could not find a way past the resolute Young Scorpions defense. The final whistle blew at 1-0, confirming the Young Scorpions as champions on a night that will be remembered for resilience, discipline, and sheer determination.

Captain Sulayman Jammeh lifts the trophy for the Scorpions in fashion.

# Champions Crowned & Individual Honors

With victory secured, the Young Scorpions finally got their hands on the prestigious Essau Juniors Nawettan League Trophy, along with a cash prize of D25,000. Runners-up Sohna FA, despite their spirited effort, settled for a D20,000 prize.

#🎗️ Special Highlights & Awards:

🏆 Man of the Match: Lamin Ceesay (Young Scorpions)

🧤 Tournament Best Goalkeeper: Muhammed Sankareh (Sohna FA)

⚽ Tournament Leading Scorer: Adama Jallow (Young Scorpions)

⭐ Tournament Best Young Player: Ebrima Sonko (Young Scorpions)

⭐ Tournament Best Player: Ebrima Gassama (Young Scorpions)

🤝 Tournament Most Disciplined Player: Adama Sonko (Sohna FA)

🤝 Tournament Most Disciplined Player: Abdoulie Daffeh (Young Scorpions)

A night of glory for the Young Scorpions, a night of heartbreak for Sohna FA, but above all, a night that showcased the pure essence of football in a community often hailed as the ‘Brazil’ of Gambian football.

Pictorial: Highlights of the Individual Award Winners 🎗️