10-man Lobi Stars showcased remarkable resilience to hold 3SC at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.
Lobi Stars began the match with intensity, and John Akende’s header prompted an impressive save from 3SC goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal in the 4th minute. Joshua Akpen then gave Shooting Stars the lead in the 18th minute, beating goalkeeper Japheth Opubo from close range.
Martins Ossy equalized for Lobi Stars just after the half-hour mark, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot the ball past Lawal. Ossy then scored his second goal of the day and eighth of the season in added time, receiving a solo effort assist from Segun Olorintoba to give Lobi Stars a 2-1 halftime lead.
After the break, Lobi Stars head coach Samuel Addingi and his side maintained their lead with compact play until Sadiq Ibrahim equalized for Coach Gbenga Ogunbote’s side in the 51st minute.
The match took a dramatic turn when Alex Aghahowa (3SC) escaped punishment for intentionally elbowing Jimmy Iteji in the face, forcing the midfielder to be hospitalized for proper medical attention before being discharged.
With the scoreline 2-2 and minutes ticking down, Martins Ossy received his marching orders in the 77th minute, when he was issued a second yellow card for contesting the referee’s decision.
Despite being down to 10 men, Lobi Stars’ defence held firm, thwarting 3SC’s late surge to secure a hard-fought draw.
In his post-match reactions, Coach Tar Akombo praised the team’s character and resilience, stating: “I’m happy with the result. I thought we got the three points. Unfortunately, we got a draw. We are grateful. I believe this result will be a turning point for us.”
Coach Akombo urged Lobi Stars supporters to remain supportive, assuring them that things will change for the better as the team begins a new era.
Next up, Lobi Stars face lower-division side Flight FC in the State Federation Cup final at JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko, before hosting Niger Tornadoes in a North Central derby clash on matchday 26 at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi.
CREDIT: Lobi Stars Media Team