Godwin Asamoah produced a hat-trick for Accra Panthers, but his side’s spirited comeback was not enough to prevent Dragons from claiming a 30–22 victory in the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) Men’s 13s Championship on Sunday.
The match at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium delivered an entertaining contest, with Dragons dominating the first half before Panthers mounted a determined late challenge.
Panthers made an early statement when Kofi Adusei Abah crossed for the opening try in the sixth minute. However, Dragons quickly responded through Jonathan Adotey, whose try and the subsequent conversion by Prince Chris Ebo Da-Gama Idan Odum put Dragons in front.
The Dragons attack then found its rhythm. Elikem Kwornu Kwami scored twice in the first half, while Emmanuel Amoah-Acheampong and Odum also crossed the line. Odum’s successful conversions helped Dragons take a commanding 26–8 lead into the break.
Panthers faced an uphill task in the second half, made more difficult by the dismissal of Adam Ibrahim Adam in the 39th minute following his red card. William Asilevi had also received a yellow card earlier in the first half.
Rather than give in, Panthers fought back. Asamoah scored in the 58th minute, and Adams Marsuu converted before adding a penalty goal three minutes later.
Asamoah then completed his hat-trick in the 71st minute, with Marsuu’s conversion bringing Panthers within four points at 26–22. The comeback had put Dragons under serious pressure, but the side held its nerve and Ayertey’s try in the 79th minute secured the final score of 30–22.
For Panthers, the result will be disappointing after a second-half performance that demonstrated their ability to fight back under pressure. For Dragons, the win represents another important step in only their second season, earning them a place in the championship final.
Dragons will meet three-time champions Bulls on Friday, November 6, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium. The clash will be the headline fixture of Friday Night Footy, preceded by the Diva Series Final from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
With two finals scheduled for the same evening, RLFG will bring its men’s and women’s competitions together for a celebration of the sport under the lights.
