Sunyani fans savour Stars' victory

Sunyani, (B/A) Feb. 4, GNA - The Brong-Ahafo Regional capital, Sunyani and its environs were on Sunday night plunged into a state of ecstasy as football enthusiasts and fans poured onto the streets to celebrate the epic victory of the national football team, the Black Stars over the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the quarterfinal stage of the ongoing Ghana 2008 tournament.

The regional capital, as in other parts of the country had remained quiet during the match, more especially when the Nigerians took the lead through a penalty but the equalizer by Chelsea midfield maestro, Michael Essien literally "woke" everybody up and the cacophony that erupted by the stunning winner by Junior Agogo could have drowned the noise emanating from a jumbo jet's take off.

It is an understatement to say football enthusiasts and fans took the streets as people of all ages - the old, the young, children, men and women - all savoured in the victory after the Algerian referee's final whistle went to end proceedings.

The supporters clanged cymbals, beat drums of all kinds made of items such as cooking pots, bottles, cans amid dancing, singing of both gospel, highlife and traditional and patriotic songs, all in praise of the Almighty God, the Black Stars and President Kufuor for the memorable victory over Ghana's archrivals in football. Some of the groups exhibited Michael Essien's 'bele-bele' dance to brass band music in demonstration of their unflinching support for the dazzling Stars.

Drivers of both private and commercial vehicles and motorists, as well as wheel barrow pushers were not left out of the joyful mood as they all hoisted miniature flags on their vehicles and honked continuously.

Some drinking bar operators had a windfall with heavy patronage by both male and female revellers, who drank both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to celebrate the victory.

Some fans interviewed by the GNA Sports said the Black Stars had demonstrated a high sense of patriotism that had united the entire citizenry.