Kwara United of Ilorin came from behind to defeat 10-man Ranchers Bees of Kaduna 2-1 in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 7 encounter on Sunday in Ilorin.
The match was played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin.
The visitors took an early lead in the eighth minute through Jamilu Yusuf, whose shot from close range slipped past Kwara United goalkeeper Stanley Victor.
Kwara United had an opportunity to equalise when Sanni Mohammed failed to convert a one-on-one chance, as his effort was saved by the Ranchers Bees goalkeeper.
In spite of creating several scoring opportunities, the Harmony Boys went into the break trailing 1-0.
Jerry Alex was substituted in the first half and replaced by Stephen Gideon.
Kwara United returned for the second half with renewed determination and greater urgency in attack.
Their efforts paid off in the 51st minute when Gidado Toyeeb powered home a header from a well-delivered cross by substitute Adeshina Gata, who replaced Sanni Mohammed.
Ranchers Bees were later reduced to 10 men after Faisal Sanni received a red card for a second bookable offence.
The numerical advantage boosted the hosts’ confidence as they continued to push for the winner.
The winning goal eventually came in the 79th minute when substitute Qudus Opeyemi initiated a move with a pass to Aliu Ferinyaro.
Ferinyaro delivered a fine cross into the box for Stephen Gideon, who rose highest to head the ball into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Gideon’s impressive performance earned him the Cyteck Man of the Match award, presented by the sponsor, Engr. Ahmed Olaide.
Speaking at the post-match conference, Kwara United Head Coach, Ashifat Sulyman, praised his players for their resilience, determination and fighting spirit.
Sulyman said the team deserved the victory based on its overall performance.
He expressed confidence that the team would secure maximum points against Ikorodu City in their Matchday 8 encounter in Lagos.
“We are going for the maximum points in Lagos. We will go to Ikorodu to grab the three points,” he said.
On his part, Ranchers Bees Head Coach, Usman Abdallah, said the newly promoted NNL side was still adapting to the demands of the NPFL.
Abdallah assured that the team would learn from its mistakes and improve in subsequent matches.
He commended the centre referee for what he described as an outstanding performance, saying it was the best refereeing performance he had witnessed so far in the league.
The victory moved Kwara United to eighth position on the log, while the Harmony Boys will next face Ikorodu City in Lagos on Saturday.
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