A 19th minute strike by Akposiri Naibe handed Coach Bright Omokaro his first win in charge of Osun United in the week 1 fixture of the ongoing Nigeria National League (NNL).
The lanky striker, who received the golden assist from mercurial midfielder and the captain of Omoluabi Giants, Olalere Akeem wasted no time in dribbling past the two on-rushing defenders of Ekiti United to poke home from close range, sending tumultuous spectators into a joyous mood.
Ekiti United with a strong, young squads showed the stuff they were made of, with tiki taka style of play, were unable to break through the iron gate of Osun United, well guarded by Daniel Edeh and Jerry Okon.
Former 3sc forward, Hammed Rasheed who was a thorn in the flesh of Ekiti United’s defence should have doubled the lead in the 41st minute but his long range shot narrowly went over the bar as Ekiti United goalkeeper, Believe Iteme was caught napping.
The resurgent Ekiti United, with fine displays by their talismanic midfielders, Akinyemi Timothy and Afeez Yusuf were offensive from the blast of the whistle in the second half as they had several attempts via set pieces which produced no goal.
Ayeni Boys were reduced to 10 men in the 75th minute as Olanrewaju Fehinyaro was given a marching order for a second booking following a harsh challenge on Daniel Edeh.
Even with the red card, Ekiti United continued to push forward but were pegged from restoring the parity as Omoluabi Giants held onto the lone goal victory.
*”We haven’t arrived yet’ – Omokaro*
Osun United’s head coach Bright Omokaro (MON) while speaking with journalists after the match said “it is still a team in the making because the players didn’t play my style of game due to some reasons. However, we are happy with the victory even though it’s narrow but we shall work on the lapses before our next game.”
*”Our Strategy didn’t work” – Coach Ayeni*
In his reaction to the loss, Ekiti United’s gaffer Ayodeji Ayeni said “our strategy and plan didn’t work as we had few chances before we were reduced to 10 men. Meanwhile, the league is a long journey and we will get back on our feet from the next match.”
The result means the Omoluabi Giants share the top spot with Gateway United who recorded the similar result against Giant Brillars of Enugu.
Osun United’s next match, according to the fixture, is another home game against Nilayo FC of Abeokuta, Ogun State next weekend.
