Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin City, on Monday suffered massive defeat of the season in the hands of struggling Bayelsa United, losing 2-0 in the Matchday18 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The Benin Arsenals came into the Niger-Delta derby with confidence following their convincing 2-0 home win over Rangers International of Enugu in the matchday 17 encounter in Benin City last weekend, but could not stop the thirsty Bayelsans who were desperate for redemption.
Insurance FC, before the Yenagoa encounter occupied the 7th position in the league table with 27 points while Bayelsa Utd were 17th on the log with 14 points.
The big clash started at the Samson Siasia Stadium with great skills matched with strength from both teams but the hosts were fortunate to be in control of the game as their captain, Tekena Garando scored the opening goal for United in the 17th minute of play. The lanky midfielder was unmarked when the ball from a fine corner kick went his way, as he headed home the opener for his side.
Coach Monday Odigie in his search for equalizer made triple substitution, bringing on
Chukwudi Meze, Austin Ogunge and Kelly Oahimijie for Osaghae Jr., Evans Ogbonda and Chisom Okereke in the 65th minute of action.
Notwithstanding, the changes only raised the tempo of the game for the Benin Arsenals, but could not stop the determined home team who were not comfortable with a goal lead.
As time drifted towards the final whistle, substitute Eyong Nneoyi Offem netted the second goal in the first minute of the extra six minutes added time to seal the victory for Coach Meremu Okara-led Bayelsa United.
Insurance, according to the handler coach Monday Odigie will be going back to correct their mistakes ahead of their week 19 tie with Sporting Lagos on Saturday in Benin.
