By Ben T. C. Brooks
River Gee County’s football and kickball teams have officially ended their journey in the 2025/2026 National County Sports Meet NCSM following their elimination at the quarterfinal stage over the weekend at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Sports Complex in Paynesville.
Though their campaign ended sooner than anticipated, both teams displayed grit, unity, and determination qualities that underscored River Gee’s growing competitiveness on the national sporting scene and offered hope for stronger performances in the future.
Led by captain Jusu O. Dukuly, the River Gee football team found itself in a highly competitive quarterfinal group.
The county’s opening match on January 3, 2026, ended in a narrow 1–0 defeat to Grand Cape Mount County a result that immediately placed pressure on the team.
River Gee responded admirably in their second outing against defending champions Nimba County on January 7, demonstrating tactical discipline and confidence, when the county took an early lead and maintained control for most of the match. However, a late 77th-minute equalizer forced the contest into a dramatic 2–2 draw.
Hopes of qualification ultimately faded after another close 1–0 loss to Bong County, leaving River Gee with a single point insufficient to advance to the semifinals.
Despite the unfavorable results, the football team earned respect for its organization, resilience, and competitive spirit, standing toe-to-toe with some of the country’s strongest sides.
However, within the kickball team battles, with tough matches the River Gee’s kickball team also endured a challenging quarterfinal run.
The team suffered a 4–0 defeat to Grand Cape Mount County and a 4–1 loss to Margibi County, setbacks that significantly hindered their chances of progression.
Nevertheless, the kickballers refused to bow out quietly, as on January 9, 2026, they delivered a spirited performance, securing a morale-boosting 1–0 home-run victory over Gbarpolu County.
While the win was not enough to send them through to the semifinals, it highlighted the team’s resilience and potential.
Following the team’s exit, football captain Jusu O. Dukuly addressed the people of River Gee County mainly supporters through his official Facebook page with a heartfelt message marked by accountability, humility, and optimism.
“To the people of River Gee, on behalf of the football team, I sincerely apologize for our recent results,” Dukuly said.
“We went onto the pitch united, passionate, and fully committed to defending our county’s honor. Unfortunately, the outcome did not favor us, and we take full responsibility.”
He emphasized that setbacks are a natural part of sports development and pledged that the experience would serve as fuel for growth.
“Every match teaches us something.
This disappointment will push us to train harder, improve our performance, and return stronger. We remain committed to representing River Gee with pride, discipline, and dedication.”
Dukuly also extended appreciation to River Gee citizens at home and abroad for their unwavering support throughout the tournament.
“Your prayers, encouragement, and belief mean everything to us. With God’s guidance and unity, we will overcome every challenge. River Gee has a team that will never give up.”
Across the county, fans and sports observers have echoed similar sentiments, applauded the players’ commitment while calling for improved preparation, stronger grassroots development, and better tactical organization in future competitions.
During the quarterfinal stage, River Gee County filed a formal protest against Grand Cape Mount County, alleging the use of an ineligible player.
After careful consideration, the NCSM Protest and Grievances Committee dismissed the complaint, upholding Grand Cape Mount’s 1–0 victory from the January 3 encounter.
The ruling brought closure to the matter and allowed the tournament to proceed without disruption.
Although River Gee County’s journey in the 2025/2026 National County Sports Meet ended earlier than hoped, the campaign has strengthened unity among players, officials, and supporters.
Attention now turns to rebuilding, investing in local talent, and improving sporting structures across the county.
With lessons learned and resolve renewed, River Gee County looks ahead with confidence determined to return to the National County Sports Meet stronger, wiser, and more competitive in the seasons to come.
For River Gee, the journey continues and the future remains bright.
