By Hassan Osman Kargbo
East End Lions Football Club, the most decorated football club in Sierra Leone, have once again stamped their dominance on the local game by winning the 2024/2025 Leone Rock Premier League. The Killers, as they are fondly called, sealed the title with a few matches to spare, following a 1-1 draw with Star Sport Academy at the Approved School Playing Ground, Wellington
This latest triumph adds another prestigious trophy to the club’s glittering cabinet and secures their ticket to represent Sierra Leone in the upcoming CAF Champions League, Africa’s most prestigious club competition.
The championship trophy and medals were officially presented to the players and technical staff in a colourful and well-attended ceremony at the Approved School Field. The occasion was graced by the newly elected president of the Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA), Mr. Babadi Kamara, and his executive team. Their presence was seen as symbolic of a new chapter for Sierra Leonean football, with hopes that the domestic champions will make a mark on the continental stage.
For East End Lions, the victory marks a long-awaited return to the pinnacle of Sierra Leonean football. Their last league title came in the 2018/2019 season when they went unbeaten under the guidance of coach John Edward Keister, who later became head coach of the Sierra Leone national team, Leone Stars. That unbeaten season remains one of the proudest moments in the club’s history; and the current success rekindles memories of that golden campaign.
This year’s success story has been defined by consistency, determination, and a squad brimming with youthful talent and experienced heads. The team’s attacking flair, defensive solidity, and unwavering support from their passionate fan base have been instrumental in securing the crown.
Even though the Lions still have one more match to play away against Kamboi Eagles in Kenema, the result will not affect their status as champions, having already established an unassailable lead at the top of the table. The upcoming fixture, however, offers the champions a chance to celebrate with their fans outside Freetown and to finish the season on a high note.
Speaking during the presentation ceremony, SLFA President Babadi Kamara congratulated East End Lions for their remarkable achievement, emphasizing that their victory is a win not just for the club but for Sierra Leonean football as a whole, assuring the champions of the federation’s full support as they prepare to fly the country’s flag in the CAF Champions League.
Fans of East End Lions erupted in joy at the Approved School Ground, with chants, drumming, and singing echoing long after the final whistle. For many supporters, this victory is a reward for their loyalty and belief in the team through years of near misses and tough challenges.
The triumph once again cements East End Lions’ reputation as a powerhouse in Sierra Leonean football. With their eyes now fixed on the continental stage, the Killers will look to build on this success and bring pride to their fans and the nation at large.
