December 09, (THEWILL) – A late strike by Rabiu Abdullahi secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Bayelsa United over Ikorodu City in their Nigeria Premier Football League matchday 16 clash at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
The Prosperity Boys, led by technical adviser Ladan Bosso, fielded an unchanged lineup from their matchday 14 win against Niger Tornadoes.
The solid defensive quartet of Ogundare Arise, Gabriel Biriduba, Issa Yusuf, and veteran Hassan Oladimeji anchored the team, setting the stage for a tense encounter.
Rabiu Abdullahi broke the deadlock in the 79th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the visitors.
A long ball from Gabriel Biriduba found Abdullahi, who calmly slotted home to finally crack Ikorodu City’s resistance. The goal capped a dominant display by Bayelsa United, who controlled proceedings for much of the match.
Earlier in the first half, Bayelsa United came close to taking the lead in the 41st minute when Emo James connected with a precise cross from Issa Yusuf.
However, Ikorodu City’s goalkeeper, James Faith, made a brilliant save to keep the scores level. Faith was tested repeatedly by Abdullahi and Wisdom Magbia but stood firm until the decisive moment.
The home side almost doubled their advantage in the 89th minute when Abdullahi pounced on a rebound from Ibrahim Yahaya’s effort, but the goal was ruled offside.
Substitute Okardi also missed a golden opportunity moments later, firing wide after a dazzling run past Ikorodu City’s defense.
Ikorodu City had a late chance to salvage a point, with Ayemenre Rivio forcing a save from Bayelsa United’s goalkeeper, Godgift Elkanah. Despite the visitors’ efforts, Bayelsa United held on to claim all three points and extend their unbeaten run.
Speaking after the match, Bayelsa United’s coach, Ladan Bosso, praised his team’s resilience, particularly in the second half.
“The boys showed great character despite a sloppy first half. We’ll build on this momentum as we prepare for the upcoming games,” Bosso said.
Ikorodu City’s coach, Nurudeen Aweroro, commended his players for their determination, despite the defeat.
“We gave our best. The results we’ve achieved in recent weeks are a testament to the team’s hard work. We’ll continue to push for better outcomes,” he remarked.
Bayelsa United will host Akwa United on Sunday at the Samson Siasia Stadium before traveling to Ikenne to face Remo Stars in a matchday 18 fixture.
Ikorodu City, on the other hand, will look to regroup as they aim to return to winning ways in their next outing.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
