In a tightly contested encounter, the U-17 team of Abia Warriors Football Club demonstrated resilience and determination as they held their counterparts from Rangers Football Club to a goalless draw.
The match, part of the NPFL U-17 Youth League South East zonal qualifiers, took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
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Despite facing the tournament favourites, the young Warriors exhibited a spirited effort, battling tenaciously to deny Rangers the coveted maximum points.
The defensive strategy implemented by Abia Warriors’ technical crew proved effective, successfully neutralizing the threats posed by Rangers, including their danger man, Igwilo.
The first 45 minutes witnessed chances few and far between, with both sides adopting a cautious approach in the second period.
The impregnable defence of Abia Warriors, coupled with strategic gameplay, made it challenging for the home side to break through.
In the 76th minute, Rangers had an opportunity to seize the lead when the centre referee awarded a penalty after deeming Chimaobi Ikedieze’s challenge on Rangers’ Igwilo in the 18-yard box.
However, to the joy of Abia Warriors and dismay of Rangers, the striker sent the ball over the crossbar.
The match concluded with a goalless draw, showcasing the commendable defensive prowess and tactical discipline of Abia Warriors’ U-17 team.
With this result, Rangers FC secured the top position in the table with seven points, followed closely by Heartland FC with six points.
Abia Warriors claimed the third spot with two points, while Enyimba occupied the bottom of the table with just one point.
The youthful Abia Warriors squad demonstrated their mettle in the NPFL U-17 Youth League, signalLing potential and determination on their journey through the competition.
