Lone Star Sparks Light in Ellen’s Eyes
- Gives US$75,000; Promises More Downing the Eagles

By Leroy M. Sonpon

Chief Patron of Sports President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was for the second time, out of words, to express her joy and satisfaction over the Lone Star of Liberia thrilling performance in her presence.

President Sirleaf’s smiles were buttressed and demonstrated with greetings to the players, when she entered the Foreign Ministry Wednesday night, saying: “I am proud…proud of you…your made me proud yesterday (Tuesday),” as she waved her hands.

The beam in the President’s eyes, before making remarks, tell it all about her quest of seeing the Lone Star at the finals of the 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa, which will mark their 3rd appearance after 10 years. Liberia appeared twice at Afcon in 1996 and 2002.

“We all gathered courage and enthusiasm about yesterday’s (Tuesday) game, but we have fear.

“But what we saw demonstrated the combination, professionalism and team spirit. We are proud of you,” the President said.

She added: “….to show how much we appreciate your success…we like to give this check of US$75,000…and if you bring the Eagles down…you will see what we will do again…,” the President smiled and waved.

Football pundits believed that Lone Star’s convincing 2-0 win over ancient rival Black Stars of Ghana to clinch the Presidential Friendship Cup in honor of President Sirleaf depicted the protection of the sovereignty of the nation and its people.

It can also be recalled the President was delighted over Lone Star’s 1-0 win against the Flames of Malawi (in her presence) last Tuesday and she gave US$5,000 to the Lone Star for the win and US$3,000 to the Flames of Malawi for good sportsmanship.

The Chief Patron of Sports described Lone Star’s display as marvelous which made her proud and promised to reciprocate the happiness.

Meanwhile before the end of Wednesday’s Program, the President of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) Musa Bility disclosed that Cellcom has agreed to provide a charter-flight for the national team’s trip to Nigeria in October.

“Let me make this brief announcement. I have just been told by Avishai Marciano [Cellcom Chief Executive Officer] that Cellcom will provide a 100-seater charter-flight for the national team’s game with Nigeria.

“This is to say the company is not taking anything for granted. We want to be in South Africa and this is the beginning of our journey there,” Bility said.

Mr. Avishai Marciano and his chief corporate communications strategist Dr. Kimmie Weeks attended the president’s program where she acknowledged their contribution to football.