Umar Abdullahi hails Akwa United’s spirited display despite Enugu Rangers defeat

By Wale Mustapha

Interim Coach of Akwa United, Umar Abdullahi was impressed with his players’ performances in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL’s 1-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers on Sunday.

The Promise Keepers were hoping to complete the double against their hosts haven ended the first stanza of the league with victory over Rangers in Eket.

After a goaless first half, the Uyo based club were bridged as they allow Kenneth Igboke fired a left-footed volley into the bottom corner to put the hosts in front.

What could have been Akwa’s equalizer was a 62nd minutes penalty that was agonizingly struck to the cross bar by Ubong Friday.

The hosts held on to secure match points in the tie and Abdullahi who refused to blame any player for the loss indicated that the team gave a hint of positives that could be worked on and become better subsequent games.

“I’m impressed with the way the boys played the match, the mentality and physical approach were fantastic,” the manager told media.

“We could have take something from here, as you can see we didn’t make use of the few chances we had and also missed a penalty.

“Like I said, this is not the time to make any excuses, we will only need to build on this performance and get better from subsequent games, and it must start next Sunday.”

Akwa United will be hosting Bayelsa United in the Matchday 21 in Eket next Sunday.