Majin Mohammed's Ikon Allah Boys have continued to churn out impressive performances on the road with another spectacular and hard-fought draw against Enyimba FC in Aba in an NPFL Match Day 7 encounter.
Joseph Godstime put the visitors in front towards the end of the first half when he received a well-tailored pass from Papa Daniel and bulldozed his way past Enyimba players before releasing a bullet shot that sailed into the net.
It was a dominant first half that saw both teams creating a handful of chances but fluffed them as the visitors led at the break.
The second half restarted with Enyimba showing serious intentions to get back on level terms. The two teams, however, made tactical changes as Tornadoes replaced Papa Daniel, introducing Ifeanyi Okoye, while Coach Yemi of Enyimba introduced the likes of Benedict Atule and Chinedu Ufere.
Tornadoes came close to increasing their tally through Godstime, who had a one-on-one chance with the goalkeeper, but his shot went a little wide.
Substitute Chinedu Ufere restored parity for his team in the 76th minute when he headed home from a goalmouth melee.
It was a late drama and thrilling conclusion to the game, as Enyimba pushed aggressively for a winner, but Niger Tornadoes' resilient defense and Yusuf Mohammed's exceptional goalkeeping secured a valuable away point.
Extras:
Sunday Akinmoladun showed he can be relied upon at the back. It was his first start of the season, and he delivered.
Joseph Godstime is a gem in the middle; the man keeps improving with each game, scoring two goals so far—excellent.
Felix Oloye made his NPFL debut away against Enyimba. Though jittery at some points, he has a great future ahead of him.
Idris Saidu paired as a makeshift center back and performed credibly well.
Majin, in his reaction to the draw, said: "It is not always easy playing against a team of Enyimba's caliber, parading experienced players and managed by a professional."
"They are the only surviving Nigerian team on the continent, so we knew what we were coming to face; that's why we prepared adequately for the game. I am not surprised by the result; in fact, this result feels like a win for us."
"Well, against Rivers United, I'll continue to appeal to the home fans to remain calm and patient with the boys. We will continue to put in effort towards breaking our home drought."
"The officiating has improved greatly, and it will help the growth of the league to a significant extent."
ADD A COMMENT :