Bayelsa United FC, Shooting Stars, bicker over NPFL Match Day 36 saga

Posted : 18 June 2024

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Bayelsa United reacted on Monday to the widespread allegations leveled against the club by an online publication accusing the Yenagoa-based team of assaulting Shooting Stars goalkeeper Okemute Odah in a matchday 37 fixture at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

Bayelsa United beat Shooting Stars, who are chasing continental football, 2-1 to keep their NPFL status intact.

Christian Pyagbara had put the visitors ahead in the 25th minute, but the hosts responded with John Bassey's brace in the 76th and 81st minutes.

Bayelsa United said, "Ordinarily, we wouldn't have given listening ears to attention-seeking publications from falsehood merchants and those who are just after pecuniary benefits to tarnish the image of Bayelsa United fans, who are known for peaceful conduct all over the world.

"To set the record straight, Bayelsa United provides security and other stewards in the stadium on every matchday; therefore, it is difficult for a fan to leave his stance, let alone assault a player on the pitch with cameras present.

"Again, when the incident occurred, Shooting Stars were a man down, but the hosts capitalized on the numerical disadvantage as they continued to mount pressure on the visitors, knowing how important three points were to them.

"To show how peaceful Bayelsa United fans are, the Prosperity Boys have lost four times at home this season and have also drawn, but in each of those bad results, no negative story has come out of the state, whereas these are often reported in Ibadan during Shooting Stars games.

"Furthermore, if Shooting Stars goalkeeper Okemute Odah was assaulted as claimed, Odah wouldn't have been able to continue the game. It is obvious that the plan was orchestrated by 3SC in order to abandon the game, citing security reasons, so the game could be moved to a neutral venue where they can perfect their ungodly plans.

"Shooting Stars goalkeeper, prior to the drama, signaled an official of the club for water. Immediately after the official dropped the water at the back of the goalpost, he fell down and wasted about 15 minutes. However, when the center signaled for a substitute, he stood up to continue the game.

"No match official was harassed by Bayelsa United fans while warming up, and these claims should be disregarded. Bayelsa United fans are too civilized and organized for such unruly behavior.

"Bayelsa United are focused on their last league game on Sunday against Bendel Insurance in Benin City, Edo State, and will not want any form of distraction, describing 3SC as bad losers.

"We call on Shooting Stars coach Gbenga Ogunbote to tender his unreserved apology to Arise News reporter Ovieteme George and Finecountry David of People FM for his inappropriate responses during the post-match interview. Coach Gbenga Ogunbote's post-match interview was too unprofessional."

Bayelsa United FC, Shooting Stars, bicker over NPFL Match Day 36 saga

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