Football passion reaches fever pitch in Matchweek 13 of the Leone Rock Premier League, as Sierra Leone’s fiercest rivalries take center stage. From the capital to the provinces, fans are bracing for an action-packed weekend where history, pride, and crucial league points will be on the line. The spotlight shines on the oldest and most decorated derby in Sierra Leone. Dubbed the “Clash of the Titans”, this historic battle revives decades of fierce competition between the Tiss Tass Boys and The Killers. The rivalry dates back to the golden era of Sierra Leone’s football, dividing Freetown into two camps, the West End (Mighty Blackpool) and the East End (East End Lions). The Mighty Blackpool vs. East End Lions derby, is the nation’s oldest and most decorated rivalry, and there is no bigger fixture in Sierra Leone football than Mighty Blackpool vs. East End Lions, a clash that has shaped the game for decades. Sixty years ago to the day—September 4, 1964; Mighty Blackpool, a star-studded side, considered unstoppable that season, walked into Kingtom Academy as overwhelming title favorites, only to suffer an embarrassing 4-0 thrashing to their bitter rivals, East End Lions. This stunning loss echoed in history, giving birth to the infamous chant that still haunts Blackpool supporters: “September 4, Blackpool 4.” However, over the years, these two clubs have shaped the nation’s footballing history, producing moments of brilliance, controversy, and drama. Heading into this weekend’s fixture, East End Lions are in second place, looking sharp and full of confidence. Mighty Blackpool, on the other hand, are struggling near the foot of the table, desperate to find their rhythm. But in a fixture as intense as this, form often counts for little. Can the Tiss Tass Boys defy the odds and reclaim lost glory, or will The Killers deliver another crushing blow? While Freetown braces for its biggest showdown, another heated rivalry will unfold in the Southern Arena, where reigning champions Bo Rangers welcome their cross-regional rivals Kamboi Eagles. For Bo Rangers, this season has been a test of resilience. After dominating the league in recent years, they’ve struggled to find consistency in their title defense. A win here is crucial, not just for points, but to reestablish their dominance. Kamboi Eagles, fresh from relegation, have a point to prove. This will be their first-ever visit to the Southern Arena, and they’ll be eager to mark the occasion with a statement victory. With history and regional pride at stake, expect a fiery encounter in Bo City later this afternoon. Other Key Fixtures: FC Kallon, currently in fifth place, hosts the league leaders Bhantal FC at the Approved School Field. Bhantal remains the only unbeaten side in the league, but FC Kallon will be eager to shake up the title race with a statement win. Bullom Stars have impressed so far, while Old Edwardians have struggled to maintain consistency despite an encouraging start to the season. Both teams will be fighting to prove their worth. • Wusum Stars vs. Diamond Stars Makeni’s Wusum Stars will face Diamond Stars from Kono in a showdown between two teams looking for momentum. While Wusum Stars have struggled for form, Diamond Stars have shown signs of resurgence and will be aiming to capitalize. Football is about moments that shape history, define legacies, and create heroes. This weekend, the Leone Rock Premier League delivers exactly that. From the historic oldest derby in Freetown to the Southeastern showdown in Bo, and fierce clashes across the country, this is a matchweek that will be talked about for years to come. Will history repeat itself, or will a new chapter be written? Football fans won’t have to wait long to find out. The stage is set. Let the drama unfold.
Bo Rangers, despite being reduced to 10 men, pulled off a dramatic comeback to defeat East End Lions 2-1 at the Southern Arena on Saturday in the highlight match of Matchweek 9. The defending champions have struggled for consistency this season, losing three, drawing one, and winning four of their first eight matches—marking their worst start to a league campaign in three seasons. In contrast, East End Lions have looked much improved, winning four and drawing four of their opening eight games, making them favorites coming into the fixture. The visitors struck first in the 40th minute when Sulaiman S. Kargbo fired home a well-taken finish, leaving Bo Rangers trailing at halftime. East End Lions pressed for a second goal after the break, while Bo Rangers fought for an equalizer. However, the home side suffered a major setback in the 51st minute when Mohamed Kabba was sent off for a reckless challenge, leaving them with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Bo Rangers found a way back. A penalty was awarded after Abu Komeh was brought down in the box, and substitute Suffian Kalokoh coolly converted from the spot to level the score. Kalokoh then completed the comeback in the 62nd minute with a brilliant turn and finish, securing a crucial 2-1 victory for Bo Rangers against a resilient East End Lions side. With this win, Bo Rangers climb to third place, level on 16 points with East End Lions but ahead on goal difference. They now trail league leaders Bhantal FC by four points and will face them away next Sunday. Meanwhile, East End Lions drop to fourth place and will look to bounce back when they host 12th-place Star Sport Academy at the Approved School Field on Monday.