By Mohamed T. Massaquoi
The Manager of the National Stadium, Paul Damullay has said they have completed some major renovations at the Siaka Steven Stadium in preparation for the return leg of Leone Stars Vs Lone Star.
Sierra Leone are set to host their West African counterpart in Freetown on Sunday, 8th September, 2019 as part of the preliminary for the World Cup 2022 qualifiers.
As part of the renovations Damullay said they have fixed leakages at the dressing rooms, the flood lights and the perimeter lights. In addition to their work, he said they have purchased new furniture to furnish the Presidential stadium. In addition to those works they have also worked on the shape of the pitch.
“We have also planted grasses all over the field, and we are now waiting for FIFA assessment team to know whether we are qualified to host the international match,” Damullay said.
The surface of the pitch is a major requirements for grounds to be approved for international fixtures. Prior to the end of the Sierra Leone Premier League in July, the pitch was in terrible condition. The renovation work have also included painting of the perimeter fence of the stadium.
Siaka Steven Stadium is one of two stadia in Sierra Leone. This is the second time a major renovation work is being done on this stadium after some work that was carried out by some Chinese contractors last year.
Maintaining the stadium is expensive and labor intensive. Damullay said they are trying to maintain the infrastructure by cleaning it every day and will issuing proper directives to take care of properties within the stadium premises.
Sunday’s game is bound to attract a huge crowd at the national stadium. Damullay said they will manage security effectively within the premises.
© 2019 Politico Online
