By S. Siapha Mulbah
In a surprising turn of events, host team Paynesville Football Club was held to a 3-3 draw by Montserrado County’s third division side Amazing Football Club in the two sides opening match of the Paynesville Off-Season Cup tournament on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
The match, held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex practice pitch, saw an unexpected challenge from the lower league side, which is preparing for the upcoming national promotional playoff.
Despite leading 3-2 at halftime, Paynesville FC could not secure a win against the determined Amazing FC. The game started with a bang as Nehemiah Gusic opened the scoring for Amazing FC in the 13th minute.
Paynesville’s newest signing, Blamoh Weah, equalized in the 21st minute, but the spirited Amazing FC took the lead again through youngster Alvin Qurva in the 28th minute. Weah scored again in the 37th minute to level the score, and Lawrence Kumeh put Paynesville ahead just before halftime.
The second half saw fewer goals but maintained high intensity. Elkana Jorgbor’s mid-half goal for Amazing FC ensured that both teams shared the points, each looking ahead to their next group stage matches.
The tournament, now in its third edition, kicked off on Monday with Global Pharma Football Club defeating debutant Graceland Football Club 2-1. Another opening day match saw newly promoted first division teams Blackman Warrior and Discoveries Football Clubs drawing 1-1.
Meanwhile, the local Organizing Committee of the Paynesville Cup has rescheduled the match between Liberia’s National First Division league champions, Watanga FC, and Guinea’s AS Bages.
Initially set for June 25, 2024, the match was postponed due to AS Bages’ late arrival, necessitating additional preparation time. In a statement, the organizing committee emphasized the need for fair play and high-quality participation, explaining, “AS Bages requires additional time for preparation to ensure a high-quality game and their full participation in the tournament.”
The tournament continues to draw local and international attention, with fans eagerly anticipating the remaining group stage matches and the rescheduled clash between Watanga FC and AS Bages.
