The maiden edition of the Humul-Kulsum Gala held at the Mobil Park in Bolgatanga on Saturday was a massive success.
Held under the theme: “Developing the girl-child through sports”, the tournament which was organized by A1 Radio’s sports anchor and Deputy Head of Sports, Humul-Kulsum Tahiru had four female teams competing for honors. Each game lasted 30 minutes, with 15 minutes in each half.
In the first game of the tournament, Little Arrows dominated Yorogo Youngsters throughout the game and eventually defeated them by 2 goals to nil.
The second game was much more competitive as two teams worth their salt, Soccer Queens and All Star Ladies entertained spectators to a very interesting game. In the end, Soccer Queens won the game, 2-1.
Then came the much-anticipated ‘game of the day’ between The Hairdressers’ Association and The Dressmakers Association. The game which was just for side-attraction turned out to be most interesting game of the day because of the seeming rivalry between the two associations. As the clock ticked on, the hairdressers lost their stamina and virtually stayed at their own haalf of the field. The Dressmakers who seemed to have been training vigorously ahead of the game then took the advantage and subdued their opponents to a 2-0 defeat.
All Starts Ladies beat Yorogo Youngsters 4-2 on penalties to clinch the third position. The game had ended in a 1-1 draw after both teams scored from the spot in each of half of normal play time.
In the final game of the gala, Soccer Queens could not maintain their form against Little Arrows. They made so many defensive mistakes in first half of the game, conceding 3 goals in the process. They improved on their game in the second half, not conceding any more goals but also failing to score any. Little Arrows therefore emerged victors of the first edition of the Humul-Kulsum Gala after defeating Soccer Queens, 3-0 in the final.
Addressing the gathering at the Bolgatanga Mobil Park, Organizer of the competition and A1 Radio’s sports presenter, Humul-Kulsum Tahiru said despite the financial challenges, she was determined to solely put the competition together with her own resources because of her desire to motivate young girls who have talents in soccer to chase their dreams. Miss Tahiru who is also a professional teacher encouraged the girls never to give up on their dreams, no matter the circumstances they find themselves in.
Former Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive, Dr. Harry Epsona Ayamga who was the chairman of the event said gone are the days when soccer was thought to be a reserve for only men because women are now playing competitive soccer at the international level. He urged the players not abandon their books even as they chase their dreams to become professional footballers. Dr. Ayamga also congratulated Humul-Kulsum Tahiru for her brave initiative and pledged his support for her anytime she organizes the competition again.
By: Albert Sore | A1radioonline.com | Ghana
