FC Ifeanyi Ubah on Sunday won their 3rd consecutive NPFL match when it defeated Wikki Tourists 1-0 at the Ifeanyi Ubah Intl Stadium courtesy of a Jimoh Oni goal in the 70th minute.
Seka Pascal fought his way through the defence on the right-hand side before delivering an inch-perfect cross to Jimoh Oni who scored with an overhead kick to send the home fans into celebrations.
The win over the league leaders blows the tittle race wide open as the Anambra Warriors are only one point behind Wikki Tourists in 3rd place and concludes a wonderful month in which the team won three of their four matches.
The 1st half of the match started on the calm note as both teams observed each other trying not to be adventurous until the 11th minute when Idris Mohamed of Wikki was clear on goal but failed to beat the FCIU keeper Ezenwa who made a comfortable save.
The Anambra Warriors had plenty of possession but was unable to create clear cut chances as the visiting team sat deep in defence, however, in the 18th minute, a miscued cross from Ngoma Luamba nearly found itself into the back of the net as it deceived everyone including the Wikki tourists goalkeeper.
As FC Ifeanyi Ubah tried to get the breakthrough Wikki Tourists nearly took the lead on the 30th minute against the run of play when Godwin Obaje in a solo effort dribbled past two FCIU defenders and tried to beat the keeper but his effort was well saved by Ezenwa.
As play continued FC Ifeanyi Ubah nearly took the lead the next minute as Seka Pascal’s header narrowly missed the target after he connected with Elu Wilsons cross.
The Anambra Warriors were beginning to mount the pressure on the Wikki defense and in the 35th minute the was a big penalty shout as Seka Pascal looked to have been brought down by the Wikki defender but center referee Henry Ogunyamodi waved play on to the disappointment of the home crowd.
That proved to be the last meaningful action of the half as it ended goalless in the 1st half. The 2nd half started like the 1st, Wikki where sitting deep in defense and frustrating every offense move by FC Ifeanyi Ubah and it looked like the match was heading to a draw but Seka Pascal had different ideas.
The tireless ever reliable Ivorian on the 70th minute, from the right-hand side fought his way through the defense and keeping possession, forcing the goalkeeper to come off his line. Seka held his nerve and delivered a beautiful cross to Jimoh Oni who spectacular volleyed the box into the back of the net to the delight of the home fans.
FCIU had another chance to double its lead in the final moments of the match when substitute Bright Onyedikachi was clear on goal and placed a beautiful powerful shot only to be denied by the keeper. In the end, it didn’t matter as it ended 1-0 in favor of FC Ifeanyi Ubah with the Anambra Warriors claiming its 1st win over Wikki Tourists since returning to the NPFL.
Man of The Match: Seka Pascal
The Ivorian was a constant menace to the Wikki defense throughout the match. His combative and never say die attitude was key and instrumental especially during the action that led to the goal.
Reactions:
Rafael Everton: FCIU Coach
I give thanks to God who gave us victory, credit to Wikki because they are a very good side but we played very well and got the win.
I believe we can win the league, our team are more united now than when I took over and we are working together and I believe we can win the league.
What is important is getting the 3 points in the game. We are well aware that we are behind in terms of goals so we will focus on winning our games and taking them one at a time.
What’s next:
Up next is another Oriental derby as we visit neighbors Abia Warriors. In the reverse fixture it ended goalless in what was the 1st match where FCIU dropped points at home. It should be a cracking encounter. The match is on Sunday 4th of September.
September Fixtures:
Abia Warriors A
Akwa United H
Lobi Stars A
Enyimba fc H
