May 10, (THEWILL) – On Saturday, Bayelsa Queens earned a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Rivers Angels to open their NWFL Super Six campaign at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne.
The match was decided by a composed first-half finish from Alaba Olabiyi, who latched onto a precise through-ball from Mercy Omokwo to fire a shot past the Rivers Angels goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi in the 34th minute, and it capped a dominant opening half in which the five-time NWFL champions played with composure and authority against their opponent.
The second half offered fewer clear-cut chances, though Rivers Angels won a penalty in the 50th minute when Amblessed Ogbonnaya bundled Taiwo Ajibade to the ground in the box. However, Ifeoam Ikenokwalu missed the resultant kick as goalkeeper Monle Omini saved the penalty.
The result continued the Prosperity Girls’ strong record over Rivers Angels this season, marking their second win in three encounters.
With today’s win, Bayelsa Queens will now turn their attention to a crucial group-stage clash against Nasarawa Amazons, who defeated Naija Ratels 2-1, scheduled for Monday morning at 9 am at the same venue.
The Technical Adviser, Bayelsa Queens, Whyte Ogbonda, said getting the three points against River Angels, who are one of the biggest teams in female football in Nigeria, at this stage means the Prosperity Girls are ready to go.
“The victory will encourage my players to work harder in subsequent matches, and I know they will not be complacent when they take on their next opponent.
“The biggest motivation for my players is psychological and monetary from the Bayelsa State Government, as everything needed for this tournament has been provided”, Whyte Ogbonda added.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
