In a thrilling encounter on Matchday 7 of the Nigeria National League (NNL) Southern Conference Group A, Abia Comets Football Club secured their first victory of the year by defeating 1472 FC with a solitary strike from second-half substitute Emeka Maduka.
The game, held at the Umuahia Township Stadium, witnessed Abia Comets making four changes from the lineup that secured a 3-2 away victory against Abeokuta Stormers in Matchday 6. Akpan Mfreke, Ebuka Lazarus, Hyacinth Olieh, and Chinatu Eluwa were included in the starting XI.
Despite a bright start by the hosts in the first 20 minutes, where they dominated possession and created numerous goal-scoring opportunities, including notable efforts from Uche Okoro and Oscar Nwaimo, the first half ended goalless. Abia Comets had a chance to take the lead in the 30th minute when Hyacinth Olieh missed a penalty kick, sending the ball over the crossbar.
The second half saw crucial substitutions by the hosts, introducing players like Maduka, Ikenna Ogu, Okere Daniel, and Iroakazi Ifeanyi to strengthen the team. The breakthrough moment arrived in the 81st minute when Benjamin IIuyomade’s brilliant play set up Maduka inside the opponent’s box. The winger calmly slotted home, securing a 1-0 victory for Okechukwu Ejeh’s side.
With this win, Abia Comets now have nine points from seven games, climbing higher on the Southern Conference Group A Log. The team’s next challenge will be an away fixture against Smart City FC in Matchday 8, scheduled for the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, next week Friday. The victory marks a positive start for Abia Comets in their quest for success in the 2024 season.
