Good morning!
It’s always a delight to come here after a win. Truly, nothing beats the feeling. Nobody enjoys the endless rants—least of all the writer—because those rants are often born out of frustration, disappointment, and justifiable anger. No true fan wants to watch their team lose, or even settle for a draw, especially at home.
But yesterday? Yesterday was different. We took our show to Lafia for the Matchday 27 fixture against Niger Tornadoes, and just like we did in Bauchi against Lobi Stars, we returned with all three points neatly tucked in our bags. Thanks to Joseph Atule’s cool finish in the 68th minute, we got the job done. Simple, sweet, and absolutely necessary.
For the setup, Eguma kept faith with Ani Ozoemena in goal. After his impressive showing against Shooting Stars, Peters Afolayan was handed a start, this time partnering Pascal Eze in central defence. Wisdom Obichere and Solomon Onome took charge of the flanks. In midfield, Chinedu Ufere made his return to the starting XI, pairing up with Gozie Umeh. Further up, the trio of Joseph Atule, Isah Mohammed, and Ekene Awazie provided the creativity and support behind Christian Nnaji, who was given the nod in place of the injured Ifeanyi Ihemekwele.
From the first whistle, Enyimba looked like a side with purpose. The first half was a measured affair—solid, cautious, and organized. Both teams poked and prodded, but neither found a way through. Halftime came with the scoreline goalless, leaving everything to play for in the second half.
And then came the moment. Midway through the second period, Joseph Atule popped up to deliver what would become the match-winner. One-of-a-kind6 chance, one goal, and three priceless points secured. The boys held on, defended with grit, and saw out the game professionally.
Now, here’s where things get even more interesting. That victory lifts us three places up to 9th on the log. And somehow, we’re just four points off second place (though we’ll see how much that gap shifts after today’s clash between the teams in 2nd and 3rd). This league, I tell you—always full of surprises.
With 11 matches left to play, dare we dream of continental football again? Maybe. Just maybe.
Back tomorrow.
