Poster image for article : Dragons Hold Off Accra Panthers to Secure Final Spot
Competition News

Dragons Hold Off Accra Panthers to Secure Final Spot

Published: Monday, 19th October, 2026

Dragons secured a 30–22 victory over Accra Panthers in the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) Men’s 13s Championship at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium on Sunday, October 18, 2026, confirming their place in the championship final against three-time champions Bulls.

Dragons made the most of their first-half opportunities to establish a commanding 26–8 lead at the break before holding off a determined Panthers comeback in the second half.

Panthers opened the scoring in the sixth minute through Kofi Adusei Abah, but Jesus Jerry Lartey failed to convert the try in the seventh minute. Dragons responded immediately as Jonathan Adotey crossed the line in the eighth minute. Prince Chris Ebo Da-Gama Idan Odum converted to give Dragons a 6–4 lead.

Dragons extended their advantage in the 25th minute when Elikem Kwornu Kwami scored, although the conversion was unsuccessful. Emmanuel Amoah-Acheampong added another try in the 29th minute, with Odum converting to increase Dragons’ lead.

Panthers responded through Godwin Asamoah in the 32nd minute, but Dragons finished the half strongly. Odum scored and converted in the 35th minute, before Kwami crossed for his second try in the 36th minute. Dragons went into the break leading 26–8.

The first half also saw Panthers’ William Asilevi receive a yellow card in the 15th minute, while Adam Ibrahim Adam was shown a red card in the 39th minute.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Panthers returned from the break determined to fight back. Asamoah scored his second try in the 58th minute, and Adams Marsuu converted a minute later. Marsuu added a penalty goal in the 61st minute to further reduce the deficit.

Asamoah crossed the line again in the 71st minute to complete his hat-trick, with Marsuu converting in the 72nd minute. Panthers had mounted an impressive comeback, narrowing Dragons’ advantage to 26–22.

Dragons, however, had the final say. Elvis Ayertey crossed for a try in the 79th minute, helping Dragons secure a hard-fought 30–22 victory and seal their place in the final.

The result sets up a championship showdown against Bulls, the three-time champions, on Friday, November 6, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium. The final will form part of Friday Night Footy, RLFG’s rugby league event under the lights.

The Men’s 13s Championship final will be preceded by the Diva Series Final, scheduled for 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, giving fans an afternoon and evening of rugby league action, entertainment and fan activities.

For Dragons, who are competing in only their second season, reaching the final marks a significant milestone. They will now prepare for the biggest test of their campaign as they look to challenge the experienced Bulls for the championship title.

Rugby League Federation Ghana — This Is Rugby League.