Enyimba International FC celebrated a hard-fought victory on Saturday, clinching a 1-0 win against the visiting Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match day 20 at the Enyimba Stadium, Aba.
Chijioke Mbaoma emerged as the hero of the day with his decisive 43rd-minute goal, separating the two sides in a tightly contested encounter, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
Reflecting on the match, Enyimba Assistant Coach, Yemi Olarewaju, expressed satisfaction, labeling the game “a good one.” He emphasized the team’s thorough preparation for the challenging fixture. Olarewaju remarked, “3SC is a good team and they really came at us but we only needed the three points and that was what we did right and move ahead.”
He underscored the importance of delivering in the absence of the technical adviser, affirming his commitment to the club’s objectives. “As the assistant coach, I need to do well in the absence of the technical adviser because that is why I came to Enyimba,” Olarewaju added, highlighting the club’s pursuit of a continental ticket.
Looking ahead, Olarewaju shifted the team’s focus to the upcoming away match against Bendel Insurance, emphasizing the need to maintain momentum and secure future victories.
On the opposing side, Coach Olugbenga Ogunbote of 3SC lamented his team’s defeat, acknowledging their efforts but lamenting the unfavorable outcome. “Sometimes, you play well but will not get the deserved result and in today’s game, we played well and deserved at worst a point,” Ogunbote stated.
Identifying areas for improvement, Ogunbote pinpointed defensive lapses, particularly the goal conceded, as crucial aspects to address before the next fixture. “I think we were careless with the goal we conceded because it is a situation we should have avoided and that is one of the things we need to put right before our next game,” Ogunbote remarked.
In the earlier match of the day, Heartland FC of Owerri staged a comeback from a goal down to secure a draw against visiting Kano Pillars. Mustapha Ibrahim gave Kano Pillars the lead in the 29th minute before Malachy Ohawume equalized for Heartland FC in the 88th minute.
