Gateway United exhibited resilience and determination in a thrilling encounter at the Osogbo Township Stadium, clinching a valuable draw against Osun United with Damilare Babatunde’s decisive last-minute header.
The rescheduled clash saw Coach Samson Omiponle making strategic changes, introducing Joshua Oladeji, Samuel Ovenseri, and Gbenga Benedict into the lineup.
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The tactical adjustments aimed to fortify Gateway United’s strategy as they faced Osun United on their home turf.
Osun United initiated the first attempt within a minute, but Gateway United’s defence, marshalled by Adekunle Adeniyi and Okafor Ugochukwu, swiftly cleared the danger.
Gbenga Benedict responded with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target, setting the stage for a tightly contested first half.
Fifteen minutes into the second half, Coach Omiponle made four strategic substitutions, introducing Lanre Ferinyaro, Taofeek Babatunde, Sunkanmi Odusina, and Damilare Babatunde.
However, it was Osun United that broke the deadlock in the 76th minute when Paul Agbor capitalized on a loose ball from a free kick.
Undeterred by the setback, Gateway United intensified their attack, with Damilare Babatunde heading in a crucial equalizer from a flick-on by Taofeek Babatunde.
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The provider-turned-scorer, Taofeek Babatunde, nearly secured the lead but was thwarted by Osun United’s defence.
In the final moments, Gateway United’s resilience paid off as Damilare Babatunde’s late heroics secured a valuable point, marking the team’s first on the road in two away games.
The draw showcased the team’s determination and ability to fight until the final whistle.
Gateway United’s next challenge is their first home game of the season against Giant Brillars on Saturday, December 9, 2023.
Coach Omiponle expressed his excitement with the result and promised more positive outcomes. He emphasized the team’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned and urged the fans to anticipate a spirited performance in the upcoming home fixture.
” I’m quite excited with the result. We planned for a win but got a draw. It’s the start of more positive results. Promptly, I have shifted our focus to our first home game on Saturday.
We want to win and win well. We want the fans to know that their darling team will leave no stone unturned” he concluded.
The draw against Osun United serves as a stepping stone for Gateway United as they strive for success in the ongoing season.
