Bendel Insurance FC of Benin on Saturday evening defeated J. Atete FC of Delta state 2-0 to steady their sailing in the new football season of the Nigeria National League(NNL).
Insurance energetic striker Sarki Ismael broke the deadlock and put the host in front in the 44th minute of the game after missing several scoring opportunities.
The visiting J. Atete FC who looked defensive in their approach to the game were yet to recover from shock before the referee signalled his whistle for halftime break.
On resumption of the second half, Insurance became more attacking minded as Zaidu Ayuba and Stephen Adodo’s combined assist paved the way for Sarki Ismael who narrowly missed getting a brace. A minute later,Stephen Adodo got his breakthrough as he slot in the winner in the 46th minute to stabilise his side.
The second goal, no doubt forced the visitors out of their shells as they started threatening Insurance defence area which almost gave them a consolation which was ruled offside.
The Benin Arsenal now have four points with two goals after two matches in the southern conference group B1. They were forced to a goalless draw in their first game by Vandrezzer FC in Lagos last week.
Speaking during the post match interview, Bendel Insurance FC coach Monday Odigie expressed joy over their first victory in the new season. According to him ,the three points was very important.
Odigie, obviously was not satisfied with the performance of his boys who ought to have scored more goals when the visitors started the game defensively,but was satisfied with the result. ” I thank God we won. We will continue to work to ensure that the team gets to where our people want it to be.”
He said that his team is still work in progress and that they will review and correct the mistakes noticed in the game.
J. Atete FC coach Emakpo Akpoguma on the other hand praised his boys efforts,but however admitted that they lost to a better side.
” We will go back to the drawing board and correct our mistakes before our next game. Not that my boys did not play well but played and lost to a better side.” He said.
Insurance will be on the road to Lagos again next weekend for their next game. This time, they are against Ikorodu City .
Meanwhile, Insurance players while celebrating their victory gave out their Sterling Bank Jerseys to their supporters and fans in appreciation of their steadfastness.
