Ladystrikers FC forward Ellen Gai delivered a performance to remember, earning the Player of the Match (MVP) award after scoring a brilliant brace to lead her side to a 2–1 victory over Oak Ladies FC at the Jukwa Astro Turf on Sunday afternoon.
The win — Ladystrikers’ first of the 2025/2026 campaign — came in front of an electric home crowd, and Ellen’s display embodied determination, composure, and class.
Early Brilliance Sets the Tone
The game had barely settled when Ellen Gai made her mark. In just the 6th minute, the defender latched onto a through ball and calmly slotted it past the Oak Ladies goalkeeper to give Ladystrikers FC an early lead.
Her early goal set the tempo for the match, energizing both her teammates and the fans in the stands. The Ladystrikers attack, orchestrated by the lively midfield unit, continued to test the Oak Ladies’ defense throughout the first half.
Despite several near chances, the score remained 1–0 at halftime — a lead that owed much to Ellen’s sharp instincts and pressing work rate up front.
Composure and Leadership in the Second Half
The second half saw Oak Ladies fight back, with Gifty Addae Boakye equalizing in the 50th minute. But even as the momentum briefly swung, Ellen remained calm, continuously creating chances and leading the attacking press.
Her persistence paid off again late in the match. In the 86th minute, she pounced on a loose ball in the box and struck home the decisive goal — sending the crowd at Jukwa Astro Turf into jubilation.
That strike sealed a deserved 2–1 victory for Ladystrikers FC, and capped a commanding personal performance from Ellen.
Post-Match Praise
Sports Director Sanogo Daouda Kouakou had nothing but praise for his star forward:
“Ellen showed leadership, courage, and precision today. She never stopped moving, always pushed the team forward, and finished both goals like a true captain and leader. That’s the mentality we want at Ladystrikers FC.”
Deputy Captain Deborah Ampomsah echoed the sentiment, describing Ellen’s influence as “inspirational both on and off the pitch.”
Player Focus: Ellen Gai
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Position: Defender (Center)
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Match Contribution: 2 Goals (6’, 86’)
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Touches in Opponent Box: 9
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Shots on Target: 5
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MVP: ⭐ Player of the Match
Ellen’s double not only earned her the MVP honors but also reignited Ladystrikers’ campaign after a narrow defeat to FC Samartex Ladies in their opening match.
A Rising Star in the Ghana Women’s Premier League
Ellen Gai continues to grow into one of Ladystrikers FC’s most consistent and dynamic central defender. Her blend of speed, technical ability, and eye for goal makes her a vital asset to the team’s attacking system though a defender.
With performances like this, she’s fast becoming one of the standout players in the Ghana Women’s Premier League, inspiring a new generation of young girls in football across the Central Region.