Lobi Stars of Markurdi play out a 1-1 draw against Stomers Club in the ongoing Gold Cup preseason tournament.
Ismail Lekan scored in the second half to cancel out Emmanuel Ofem’s first-half opener as Lobi Stars played out a frustrating 1-1 draw against Stormers Sports Club on matchday 2 in the ongoing Gold Cup Pre-Season soccer tournament played at Ebedei Stadium Sagamu.
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The Makurdi-based side’s early settlement into the highly anticipated encounter as they comfortably possessed and distributed the ball, provided them the opportunity to take an early lead in the 27th minute through Emmanuel Ofem, who has been in a blistering form for his side.
Coach Abubakar Bala’s guided side protected their slim lead, showcasing character and resilience over their opponent before halftime. Stormers Sports Club had an opportunity to level the scoreline from the penalty spot a minute before the halftime whistle when Alhassan Aminu handed the ball inside the box.
Unfortunately for the Ogun-based side, Lobi Stars goalkeeper Abubakar Umar stood firm and brilliantly stopped Peter Orshi spot kick. The centre referee sounded his whistle for the halftime break.
Lobi Stars went through a series of attacking plays in search of their second goal shortly after they returned from the break.
However, their efforts were not rewarded. Stormers Sports Club got a second penalty when the referee pointed to the spot, and this time, Isma’il Lekan capitalised on the opportunity to level the scoreline to 1-1 in the 63rd minute.
Lobi Stars pushed forward in search of another goal as the minutes ticked down to stoppage time. Unfortunately, they could not find another goal to hurt their opponent as all their efforts proved abortive at full-time.
Coach Abubakar Bala in his post-match interview says
“I commend the boys, it is a work in progress, and these games are good for them, and for us to ensure we get things right ahead of the new season,” he explained.
