Temitope Vincent put in a man of the match show as Sunshine Stars shared the spoils with the Sky Blues on day one of the 2022 Gold Cup pre-season tourney at the Remo Stars Stadium, Wednesday.
The game got off to a high tempo, taking Vincent just three minutes to register the first attempt at goal with a scorching free kick, before Remo responded with a big chance of their own in the shape of Andy Okpe’s close range header against the bar in the 16th minute.
Okpe will later get the marching order alongside Sunshine Stars’ Mutiu Dauda for improper conduct, forcing both sides to prosecute over 70 minutes of the derby encounter with 10 men.
The Owena Whales almost fell behind 18 minutes into the second half however, Sunday Ukayen denied the Ikenne landlords with a decisive goal line clearance.
Sunshine Stars got their noses in front 15 monutes from time through’ Vincent well taking goal from the spot after Remo Stars were penalised for a handball in area.
The Edit Agoye tutored boys were within minutes from taking home the win when they were pegged back by Junior Nduka’s goal from the spot to ensure honours were even at the end of the thrilling contest.
With the result Sunshine are joint second in group B standings of the Gold Cup, two points adrift of Niger Tornadoes who defeated the Akure landlords’ next opponents, Gateway United FC 1-0 earlier in the day.
Assistant Head Coach, Akin Olowookere who stood in for Agoye at the post match presser expressed satisfaction with the out come of the game.
“We are satisfied with the result because we just played against a very good side and don’t forget this is a continent side; a side that have been preparing for a very long time and we are just coming in; our team is a work in progress.
“The tournament’s organisation is wonderful; top notch the organisers have done very well. To our fans I say keep praying for us, wish us well. On our part we are going to give our best and we will not disappoint.”The former junior international stated.
