A second-half spot-kick converted by Sunday Megwo secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Abia Warriors against visiting Warri Wolves in the Match Day 18 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The victory at the Umuahia Township Stadium ensured a first home win for the Umuahia warlords in four games, a development that comes as soothing relief for the club’s teeming fans.
Abia Warriors’ gaffer, Imama Amapakabo, gave Israel Joseph his first start of the ongoing league campaign. The youngster nearly scored in the first half, but he was denied by Warri Wolves goalkeeper Joke Efevwera, who pulled off an incredible double save.
It was one of the few chances that came the way of the home side in the first half, as both sides went into the break on level terms.
The Warriors, buoyed by their supporters, raised the tempo in the second half as they attacked at will, reducing their opponents to occasional forays that were effectively dealt with.
As the game wore on, there was palpable anxiety among the home supporters as all efforts by the Warriors were being thwarted by the visitors, who went ultra-defensive to ward off the attacks.
The Warriors’ talisman, Sunday Megwo, nearly got on the score sheet in the third minute of additional time when his free-kick came off the upright. However, he was not to be denied two minutes later, converting from the spot after a Warri Wolves player conspicuously blocked a headed effort with his arm inside the 18-yard box, prompting the centre referee to award a penalty to the Warriors.
Up next for Abia Warriors is a trip to Jos for a showdown with Plateau United on Sunday, 28th December 2025.
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