Kwara United Football Club returned to winning ways today, Saturday January 20, 2023, as they defeated Sunshine Stars of Akure by a lone goal in the Matchday 19 encounter of the 2023-2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), decided at the Main-Bowl of the State Stadium Complex, Ilorin.
Playing with serious caution but great determination on the backdrop of the home loss to Lobi Stars in the Matchday 17, Kwara United dominated the game, and also got an early goal through Emmanuel Ogbole.
Highly mobile Samuel Ayanrinde rounded off three defenders on the far side, threw a low pass to Ogbole who pushed pass goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal in goal for Sunshine Stars in the 14th minute.
The dominance continued with Kwara United searching for another goal, created many scoring chances through Issa Gata, Ayanrinde, Godwin Oshagbemi and Ogbole, but failed to increase the tally.
The dominance continued in the second half, but the inability of Kwara United to take their chances left Sunshine Stars to take the initiative, and were in control for the last part of the game, but Kwara United’s defence rose to the occasion perfectly.
Coach Edith Agoye faulted the officiating officials, claiming that his team had two clear penalties that were not awarded them in the game.
“Yes, we lost, but it could have been different if we were awarded the penalties we got. We got two glaring penalties that everybody saw, except the referees. Its unfortunate to lose this way.
“Our target coming here was to pick a point or three. But I commend my players. Our target for the season still on course. Its to pick a continental ticket.
Coach Kabir Sulaiman Dogo commended his players, even as he thanked the Fans, Supporters and stakeholders for their patience.
He commended the contributions of Afeez Nosiru, whom he described as an experienced, committed and dedicated player, adding that they are working on signing new players that will help the team, especially ahead of the second round.
“Having Afeez back in the team is a bonus to us, and we are also working on bringing in new faces that will help us through the hostilities of the second round”, he added.
Shola AbdulRaheem was picked as the Man of the Match.
Kwara United will next play Heartland FC in Owerri on Thursday January 25, 2024, in a rescheduled Matchady 18 encounter.
