Liberiaโs national first division defending champions, Watanga Football Club, began their title defense on the wrong footing, falling 0-1 to a determined LISCR FC side at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex. The match was one of the masterpieces expected for the start of the league from indications that the two have been into domestic rivalry for a very long time.
On the contrary, the game was not treated as expected but had a delayed call to start. From the sound of the kickoff whistle, both teams saw the face of goal with different attacks but failed until Emmanuel Flomoโs first-half strike sealed victory for LISCR under the guidance of Nigerian coach Oladeinde Babatunde.
Flomoโs stunning goal just before halftime was enough to condemn Watanga to a rough start, despite their efforts to claw back in the second half. Watanga’s attackers, led by top scorer Emmanuel Sieh, were unable to breach LISCR’s defense, leaving fans and management disappointed.
The match featured several talking points, including a disallowed goal that Watanga believed had put them ahead. Referee Sylvina Garnett, initially signaled for a goal, only to reverse the decision after intervention from assistant referee Joel Doe, ruling the play for an infringement.
Watanga had their moments, showing glimpses of their championship form from last season, but LISCRโs discipline and Anthony Lafforโs leadership on his return to the club ensured a solid performance. Despite some exciting flashes from Laffor, Watanga struggled to establish control.
Further controversy surrounded the game as both teams started without an ambulance, violating the Liberia Football Associationโs regulations. This, coupled with a delayed kickoff, marred what was expected to be an exciting start to the season.
The loss serves as a wake-up call for Watanga FC, as they seek to regroup and push for a stronger performance in their upcoming matches.
