Defending champions of Ogunjobi Gold Cup Pre-Season competition, Niger Tornadoes has vowed to bounce back and defend the trophy effectively, despite losing their opening game to Kwara United FC today.
Kwara United Football Club defeated the hard fighting Minna side 2-0 in their opening match at the Main-Bowl of the Kwara State Stadium Complex, Ilorin today, in a crucial and entertaining encounter.
Stephen scored the opening goal in the 30th minute, to make up for losing a penalty in the 5th minute, while Agboola Joshua added the second two minutes later.
Striker Ohanu Michael was fouled by Tornadoes goalkeeper, who failed to clear his line in the fifth minute, but the resultant penalty was stopped by Tornadoes goalkeeper.
But the head Coach of Tornadoes, Bala Abubakar told newsmen after the match that his wards will defend the title effectively, despite losing to Kwara United FC.
He praised the standard of the competition, adding that his team played one of the toughest teams in the competition.
Kwara United FC had a good day in the first half, but the Minna side came out smoking in the second half, but inexperience robbed them of a meaningful impact.
Kwara United FC made five complete changes, with Samuel Ganda replacing injured Taiwo in the 46th minute.
Other second half entrants are Lucas Alves, Issa Gata, Danbani and Shola Olorunmako, all of whom stabilized the team, especially towards the end of the game.
Kwara United FC Chief Coach, Ashifat Sulaiman commended his team for the victory, and hailed them for rising up to the occasion, especially been the first major competitive match since March.
He said that the team will improve gradually with more matches, ahead of the start of the 2019/2020 NPFL season.
Niger Tornadoes will play 36 Lions tomorrow by 8.00 am, while Kwara United tackle Remo Stars by 4.00 pm, in continuation of the competition.
