Samba Boys have halted the fascinating run of Sembe United after they defeated the giant killers 2-0 in one of the quarter-final fixtures of the ongoing Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup played on Thursday at the Billiri Township Stadium, Billiri , Gombe State.
Samba’s outstanding display has been rewarded as they showed character and steel to zoom to the semi-final against more illustrious, experienced and physical Sembe United side.
Sembe United’s manager Yakubu Ehud, described the lost as unfortunate and said his players didn’t turn up for the game but he refused to single out any player for fault that led to the two goals.
“I cannot single out a player for mistakes that led to these goals, all the two goals were as a result of defensive errors and it the whole team that would be held responsible and not only the defensive,” Ehud disclosed to Adamu Yola Cup media.
Gaius Akila’s recent good run continued as he waded off opposition from Sembe United’s defence to fire the opening goal in the 32nd minute.
Mikahya Manasseh doubled the advantage in the 65th minute after he finished off exquisite pass from Ayuba Adamu which exposed the Sembe United defence.
Samba Boys manager, Zephaniah James was all smiling in front of the media after the game as he described his players as exceptional despite the physical nature of Sembe United.
“Based on pattern and the tempo of the game, we watched their last match against Balanga United. We realised that they are more physical. We decided to play tactical football and more of brain work and that was how we beat them,” Samba’s James pointed out.
“They have experienced and mature players who are playing at a higher level, but we did our homework you can see. All my players were outstanding today. I love them all.”
Sembe United gaffer went ahead to acknowledge the superiority of the Samba Boys whom he admitted were too good for his team.
“They were good with footwork and very difficult to mark. Trust me, that is the next aspect I will like to work on with my team. Also, I will have work with younger boys now, as you can see my players are aging.”
