Mohamed Abu Conteh
In a dramatic Matchweek 30 showdown of the Leone Rock Premier League, Diamond Stars staged a thrilling second-half comeback to defeat East End Lions 4-3 at the Approved School Field.
East End Lions started strong, taking the lead in the 18th minute with Suleiman S. Kargbo’s confident close-range finish, set up by David Kamara. Diamond Stars had a chance to equalize shortly after, but Daniel Yambie missed a penalty, keeping East End Lions ahead at halftime.
The second half saw a revitalized Diamond Stars turn the tide. Just a minute in, Samuel Penni leveled the score with a goal from a well-executed move by Foday Turay. Penni struck again in the 49th minute, this time capitalizing on an assist from Juma Barrie to put Diamond Stars ahead 2-1.
As the pressure mounted, Edison Borbor extended the lead to 3-1 in the 53rd minute, finishing from Daniel Yambie’s setup. Moments before, Momoh Conteh received a yellow card, adding to the tension on the pitch.
East End Lions fought back quickly, with Kargbo scoring his second goal in the 55th minute, narrowing the gap and reigniting their hopes.
However, Diamond Stars delivered a crucial blow in the 86th minute when Musa Samura scored to restore a two-goal cushion at 4-2.
Despite East End Lions’ determination, Kargbo completed his hat trick in stoppage time with a well-placed finish from David A. Conteh’s assist in the 90+4th minute. Ultimately, it was too late to change the outcome, as Diamond Stars secured a thrilling 4-3 victory.
This vital win significantly enhances Diamond Stars’ survival prospects, while East End Lions lamented missed chances after relinquishing their first-half advantage in one of the week’s most exciting matches.