Tamale, Nov 11, GNA - Have you ever practiced to run backward? If you have not learnt to do so, start now because it is life saving. If you doubt it, please ask Jeffrey Amamoo of Cape Coast.

Amamoo exhibited his skills in backward running at the Kaladan Park to save his life when irate people believed to be supporters of Real Tamale United (RTU) attacked him at the Kaladan Park last Sunday in a GT Premier League match between RTU and Kumasi Asante Kotoko. Some of the spectators at the match realised that the best way to defend oneself was to run backwards while on the look out for the 'enemy' rather than running with one's back facing the attackers. The GNA Sports writer had regretted for not being able to run backwards as was demonstrated by Amamoo when he was hit on the middle side of his ribs, which could likely be damaging to his kidneys just as the riots broke out in the 75th minute of the second half of the match. The reporter rather found it too late that running backwards was the best way of defending oneself against all manner of missiles as one seeks sanctuary and protection from the enraged fans and to be able to dodge the onslaught.

Referee Amamoo last Sunday demonstrated it at the Kaladan Park when he took off like a jet plane without looking back to run to safety. He did it in a professional manner to the admiration of the spectators at the Park.

RTU's Hamza Mohammed did a statesman's job when he pitched his hands on Referee Amamoo's chest, using the last ounce of energy in him to urge the referee to run backwards from the Kotoko goal area to the other end of the Park for immediate Police protection. All must salute Hamza and Amamoo for the professional manner both executed their roles on that day. Hamza did the pushing perfectly and Amamoo did run like a rabbit and without looking back to seek his safety.

It is about time therefore that we learn other ways of self-preservation such as running backwards and not leave the art alone for referees, especially when they are in danger.

Running backwards should therefore be a past time and practiced at home, in schools and at workplaces because it came at the opportune time and helped save Referee Amamoo' life.