The quarter-final showdown of what could be termed Yhellow Football Fiesta (NPFL Laliga U-15 Promises Youth League), went down today at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, and the first match of the day was between Kano Pillars FC and Gombe United FC.
The end of the Ramadan fast ensured both teams played physical football unlike how they approached their previous games in the competition.
Pillars drew the first blood in the 20th minute through Imran Musa, who showed class with his pace and dribbling skills by taking on Gombe United centre backs to bury the ball in the net.
Idris Khamis doubled the lead for Kano Pillars U-15 side shortly after the restart having being located by a pass from Aliyu Auwal, after a few midfield interchanges.
The Gombe United U-15 side finally threw caution to the wind and went all out in a quest for a comeback but matters only got worse as the Kano lads took advantage of a fast break and increased the tally to three via a long range shot from Imran Musa.
Their relentless effort soon paid off, but it was a little too late as Abdullahi Bello’s 52nd minute strike and Miko Dalha stoppage time penalty only served as consolation.
In his post-match reaction, the coach of Kano Pillars U-15 side, Suleiman Aliyu said: “I am a little accomplished that the boys gave out their all in today’s game and I believe they would come all out to play in our next match because the Ramadan fast is over.
“I am sure the boys will consolidate on this victory in our next match; we will have a full complement of our team in all areas.”
The MFM FC vs Remo Stars game became the match of the day, as it stole the shine off the first match.
Both teams expressed themselves in all ramifications, especially in the midfield and the spectators who came never regretted they did, as the young lads entertained the crowd beyond expectations.
Peter Adejimi of Remo Stars fired his side into the lead in the 10th minute from a Promise Meliga’s assist, while Stanley Ohaemesi doubled the lead 8 minutes later via a goal mouth scramble.
Francis Ajibola of MFM FC pulled one back from the spot after being fouled in the penalty area by Nse Believe, but that wasn’t enough to bring them at par before the final whistle.
Remo Stars Director of Youth football, Tiago Conde, in his post match reaction stated that: “We came into the game with the right mentality and the boys gave a good account of themselves.
“We decided to infuse a few players into the game in the second half to correct a few mistakes, but it didn’t work out as planned.
Day two of the quarter-final parents will see katsina United playing against Wikki Tourists FC, while Sunshine Stars FC will square up against Shooting Stars Sports Club.
