By Kehinde Osagiede
BENIN CITY – Bendel Insurance FC of Benin today conceded a 61st minute goal to lose three points to Lobi Stars of Makurdi in the match-day eighteen of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
It was a tight game as both teams laboured with scoring chances well created but ended the first stanza in a goalless situation.
The host team however mounted much pressure on their visitors in the first 20 minutes as their well coordinated incursions were foiled by the Insured defence network of Daniel Johnson, Tanimu Benjamin and Odinaka including the tireless stand-in captain Efe Enabulele who were strong enough to absorb the pressure to make it barren before halftime. Insurance striker Imade Osarenkhoe connected by Efe Enabulele on different occasions threatened the host,going close to shocking the home team.
On resumption of second half, the game looked balanced with both sides waiting for opportunity to strike until Insurance defensive error during a goalmouth scramble gifted Sikiru Alimi a loose ball he quickly slotted into the net in the 61st minute.
The Makurdi loss, no doubt has put more pressure on the Benin Arsenal whose goal drought has continued to threaten their stay in the premier league.
The Insurers who remain in 9th position on the table with 22 points must win their remaining two home games against Katsina Utd and Sunshine Stars to be sure of survival.
Speaking after the game, chief coach of the Benin Arsenal, Baldwin Bazuaye expressed disappointment with the result, but commended his boys resilience. He said the team will now shift their focus on how to win their next game in Benin.
On the other hand,the Technical Manager of Lobi Stars, Solomon Ogbeide said he was happy his side got the maximum points against the side that defeated his side in the first round in Benin. He added that his side defeated a strong team.
” It was a good game and I am happy we won. I am from Benin but
loyalty is with Lobi Stars. As a professional, that is how it is and I am happy it ended in our favour. ” He explained.
