NPFL 2025: Malik Scores as Bayelsa United Beat Shooting Stars
Bayelsa United emerged victorious at the Match Day One encounter against host Shooting Stars of Ibadan in a tightly contested affair at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.
Both sides came into the game with new coaches at their respective dugouts as former Ikorodu City Tactician Nurudeen Aweroro was in charge of the host. For the visitors, former Bendel Insurance gaffer Coach Monday Odigie returned to the club he once managed.
TEAM NEWS:
Coach Monday Odigie gave former Ikorodu City Solomon Emmanuel a start against the Oluwole Warriors, Ubong Williams also started his first game for Bayelsa United after his move from Akwa United. Gabriel Biriduba and Ogundare Arise started at the heart of defence and Emo James was tasked with leading the line for the Prosperity Boys.
FIRST HALF
The home side started the game on the front foot but the visitors defence was equal to the task but against the run of play as Home Boy Kehinde Malik Lawal despite his height rose the highest to head in the opener for the Prosperity Boys.
The home side responded with a series of attacks but we’re denied by Goalkeeper Clinton Andy and a goal line clearance from Captain Gabriel Biriduba to end the first half in favour of the visitors.
SECOND HALF
Bayelsa United came out from the dressing room the better of the two teams as Emo James’s shot was blocked after a good work Ofem Nneoye to set him up for the second.
Ten minutes later, Emo James thought he had increased his side’s lead after dribbling past the goalkeeper but agonizingly saw his shot narrowly go wide for a goal kick. Defensive Midfielder Edwin Ayiba was brought in to replace the injured Ofem Nneoye in a bid to stabilize the visitors Midfield and slotted in seamlessly into the visitors Midfield.
POST MATCH REVIEW
An elated Coach Monday Odigie praised his players for their performance, stating that they all played according to instructions and as a result they got the win that their performance deserved. When quizzed on if his team are in the market for more players, he promised to recruit more players as they are currently short in numbers.
Bayelsa United will take on Newly promoted Barau Football Club at the Samson Siasia Stadium in the Match Day Two fixture in a bid to get Six points for two games.
