By Aderonke Ojo
Lobi Stars played out a frustrating 1-1 draw at home to FC Basira, despite creating numerous scoring opportunities enough to seal the derby clash on matchday 5 at Lafia City Stadium on Thursday evening.
The Makurdi-based side had a bright start, with midfield maestro Afeez Yusuf taking advantage of a free-kick awarded to his side deep into the opponent’s half to play a spectacular kick that was heading into the back of the net, only to see FC Basira’s goalkeeper Abdulazak Shehu take advantage of his sharp reflexes to thwart his strike.
Both teams matched each other’s energy, and Afeez once again saw his free kick go inches away from the desired goal for a goal kick.
The visitors settled into the game, having some possession of the ball just before the half-hour mark, which saw Sunday Aluku denied from giving Basira the lead after manoeuvring his marker and leaving Lobi Stars goalkeeper, Michael George, to make a crucial save.
The right moment arrived in the 26th minute, as Afeez’s spectacular free kick from the right edge of the penalty area to far angle beyond the reach of goalkeeper Abdulazak Shehu of Basira to put Lóbí Stars ahead, sparking wild jubilation.
FC Basira never gave up, launching a few attacks in search of an equalizer, only to be thwarted by a good defending from the Lobi Stars back line.
Returning from the halftime break, coach Bala made some tactical decisions, allowing Faruk Amade to take over from Afeez Yusuf, who left the pitch early due to injury. The visitors had a breakthrough during the run of play, but George Michael exhibited great character and composure to keep his side ahead.
Shasudeen Lawan was not lucky to see his goal stand when he nodded the ball inside the net, only to see his celebration cut short as the assistant Referee controversially raised his flag for offside.
As the minutes were winding down, FC Basira restored parity from the penalty spot, changing the scoreline to 1-1 through Abubakar Yusuf, after a handball from Solomon Kwambe left the centre referee with no option but to point to the penalty spot.
Benjamin Agugu was introduced as Lobi Stars intensified their search for another goal, unfortunately, the youngster couldn’t register his name on the score sheet.
In his post-match interview, Coach Abubakar Bala was disappointed with the result, despite his team’s efforts. “It’s never the result we anticipated,” he said. “My boys created more scoring opportunities, but we ended up playing a 1-1 draw at home. We will get things right and return to winning ways.”
Lobi Stars now have seven points from five matches, occupying 4th position, and will travel to face table toppers Doma United in Gombe on matchday 6.