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SEPTEMBER 21, 2008
 
Onadrix Rangers capture Nwafor FA Challenge Cup; defeat Inter Nationale, 2-0

(Colmar Manor, MD) Onadrix Rangers captured their second trophy of the season by defeating Inter Nationale, 2-0, in front of an over flowing crowd at Colmar Manor Ballfields in a very entertaining match. In the process, Onadrix Rangers is in prime position to be the first team in NSL history to capture all three trophies (triple crown) in one season. They captured the inaugural Oyeneyin Super Cup to open the season, and will be defending and gunning for their sixth Nzenwa Championship League Cup, on Sunday.

Inter Nationale started the game by taking the action to Rangers and came close to opening the scoring in the first minute when Frank Doh missed a sitter. Inter's offense led by Foday Kasia and Wale Adelakun continued to make waves at the Rangers defense manned by skipper and goalkeeper, Emeka Igwe, rookie of the year candidate, Andrew Koroma and perrenial strongman Edwin Ebai. Despite a free flowing first half, there were far and few real goal scoring opportunities.
 
In the second half, things picked up on both ends as each team decided to take matters into their own hands, as an end to end action packed game ensued. Rangers' Oscar Akamike saw his sizzling effort scrape the upright from a tight angled shot in the 52nd minute, while Inter's Wale Adelakun squandered a beautiful one on one effort and a great chance to put his team in the lead, as he saw his seemingly nicely placed shot saved by a sprawling Emeka Igwe in the 67th minute.
 
From there, Rangers' Fela Adewunmi almost single handedly took over the game and made his presence felt after switching from the right flank and pairing up with Leroy Oligie in attacking midfield. Inter's defense was mesmerized by the combination and the two hooked up to give Rangers' the lead when Fela headed home the ball from close range in the 78th minute. He nearly added another four minutes later but his missile barely went over the bar. However, in the 86nd minute, Fela Adewunmi put the game away with a sensational solo run through the teeth of the Inter defense, before rounding up the goalkeeper and slamming home the ball to the delight of the crowd and capping the 2-0 victory for Rangers, their first FA Cup trophy and seventh overall NSL trophy.
 
Onadrix Rangers will try to become the first team in the NSL to achieve a historic double by capturing both the Nwafor FA Challenge Cup and Nzenwa Cup NSL Championship trophy in the same season, no to mention the "triple" crown when they meet Eastern United, this Sunday, for the prestigious Nzenwa Cup.
 
Next game:
 
NZENWA CUP CHAMPIONSHIP GAME: 
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28th, 2008:
 
3:00pm ONADRIX RANGERS v. EASTERN UNITED
 
This should be the most entertaining championship game of all time as the five time NSL champions, Onadrix Rangers, square off against the most entertaining team this season in Eastern United. They were the top two scoring teams this season however, Rangers possess the stingiest defense in the league allowing a measly 10 goals, in 11 games. Their defense is led by skipper/goalkeeper Emeka Igwe, Edwin Ebai and Ike Akamike. Rangers scoring attack is by committee and is set up by the mercurial Leroy Oligie.

On the other hand, Eastern United sports a lethal three prong attack in the newly crowned goal scoring record holder, Uzo Anukam (12 goals), playmaker Galidore Ngapeth and the energetic Richard Hutchinson. EU also has a solid midfield anchored by Abdul Bangura and Romeo Ngoti. The last time these two teams met ended in 2-1 victory for Rangers, in an entertaining ball game, last month.
 
SEPTEMBER 14, 2008
 
2008 NZENWA CUP FINALS ARE SET!!
Onadrix Rangers knocks off Raccah Rovers;
Eastern United comes back against Mofe Stars in penalty kick shootout!!
 
Onadrix Rangers booked their ticket to another championship game this season as they defeated a difficult Raccah Rovers team, 4-3, in a penalty kick tiebreaker shootout. They will be looking to add to their dynasty as they try to successfully defend and add their sixth Nzenwa Cup, after opening the season by winning the inaugural Oyeneyin Super Cup. However, it will be a tall order as they will meet Eastern United who came back to defeat Mofe Stars SC also in a penalty kick tiebreaker shootout, after trailing 2-0 early in the games opening 16 minutes following a brace by skipper Cheick Ndifang, in an exciting contest that lived up to its billing.
 
This was the second week in a row that MSSC blew a two goal lead to end up with their fate decided on a penalty kick tiebreaker. Last week, they made it through but this time around could not capitalize, as they watched EU's Ibekwe Anya save three of their penalty kicks. Richard Hutchinson started EU's comeback with a wicked grounder that rattled the net in the 23rd minute. Uzo Anukam, the NSL's goal scoring record holder nodded the game in the 62nd minute on a tap in off an assist by Galidore Ngapeth, who missed a penalty kick in the 54th minute, but terrorized defenders all day long down the left flank, as EU dominated the entire second half. They should have settled matters during regulation on at least two occasions and almost found the penalty kick tiebreaker disasterous, yet moved on.
 
In the first game of the day, Raccah Rovers dominated the first half against Rangers but watched as Andy Ojinnaka missed several chances including a one on one chance with the goalkeeper at his mercy. Rangers regrouped at the half and the game became a war of attrition, and a battle of the midfield ensued, with no real goal chances of any sort by either team. This led to the most painful of game tiebreakers as Rangers prevailed. Rangers will be trying to become the first team in NSL history to win both the Nwafor FA Cup and Nzenwa Cup in the same season. On the other hand, Eastern United will be making its first appearance in the Nzenwa Cup championship game. This is the first time in NSL history that both the first and second seeded teams have met in the finals since the league went to the current playoff format of six teams, in 2005.
 
SEPTEMBER 7, 2008
 
Raccah Rovers to meet Onadrix Rangers in Nzenwa Cup semis;
Mofe Stars to battle Eastern United after wildcard playoff win!

(Colmar Manor, MD) Raccah Rovers, playing with 10 men for most of the game following a controversial red card in the 20th minute, brought the Colmar Manor faithful to their feet with a seemingly improbable 3-1 comeback victory over a stunned Enyimba club. They exploded with three goals in the games final three minutes of regulation after trailing 1-0 in the 65th minute after a goal from Enyimba's Ricardo Jarrett. In a game filled with several stoppages and extremely physical play that produced seven yellow cards, Raccah Rovers persevered and battled back tying the game with a goal in the 88th minute by Ipolite Aly on a swift counter attack, then another goal barely a minute later by Andy Ojinnaka off a corner kick, before punctuating their victory with a viscious penalty kick in injury time by Mohammed Zongo after Ipolite was taken down in the penalty box with the goalkeeper at his mercy. The Rovers' move on to face the defending champions, Onadrix Rangers in the semifinals, on Sunday.

Mofe Stars SC also moved into the semifinals to face Eastern United after blowing a 2-0 lead against Ogbunigwe before holding them off in a 3-1 penalty kick tiebreaker shootout. MSSC took a 1-0 lead in the 39th minute when Charles Egbuchiri finally beat one of many offside traps set by the Ogbunigwe defense and looped the ball over the on rushing goalkeeper. After the second half restart, skipper Cheick Ndifang extended MSSC's lead to 2-0 in the 48th minute on a header inside the six yard box and his team seemed in full control of the contest. However, Ogbunigwe threw caution out the window and everything but the kitchen sink at Mofe Stars, connecting twice during a furious five minute span in the 77th minute by Jasper Asadju on a corner kick and striking again in the 81st minute by Charles Oriaku on a tap in from close range to nod the game at 2-2. After an engaging finish, the game was decided by penalty kicks with Mofe Stars prevailing 3-1.
 
This now sets up a mouth watering semifinal matchup with Rangers facing their nemesis, Raccah Rovers, while the Eastern United and Mofe Stars semifinal features NSL goal scoring record holder, EU's Uzo Anukam (12 goals), and MSSC's lethal striker Alfred Favez (8 goals). Both matches promise to bring the park to its feet and live up to the billing. 
 
 
NZENWA CUP Semifinals this SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14th:
 
1:00pm #5 RACCAH ROVERS v. #1 ONADRIX RANGERS
 
3:30pm #3 MOFE STARS SC v. #2 EASTERN UNITED
 
 
AUGUST 31, 2008
 
Eastern United grabs Conference-B, first round bye; Mofe Stars clinches Conference-C; Ogbunigwe and Raccah Rovers join playoff party!

Eastern United gave Ogbunigwe both of their losses of the season and in the process won Conference-B with their 2-1 victory, last Sunday. They also snapped Ogbunigwe's seven game unbeaten streak, secured a bye and joined defending league champions Onadrix Rangers in the semifinals, in the chase for the Nzenwa League Trophy. Eastern got goals from 2008 NSL scoring champion, Uzo Anukam (12 goals, league record) and Richard Hutchinson. E.K. Ume notched Ogbunigwe's goal on a penalty kick.

In other action, Enyimba and Mofe Stars battled to a goalless draw. It was Enyimba's league record 4th goalless draw of the season and league tying 8th game unbeaten streak. Mofe Stars clinched Conference-C with the draw. Inter Nationale, needing a victory to stay in the playoff race, was walked over by Onadrix Rangers when they failed to field the minimum of seven players prior to kickoff. This is the third straight season Inter has failed to reach the playoffs after winning the Nzenwa trophy during their inaugural season, in 2005. Raccah Rovers also punched their playoff ticket for next weekend after Vasco Da Gama, with nothing on the line except pride, forfeited their scheduled contest concluding a disappointing season after falling in the championship game, last year.
 
NSL PLAYOFFS begins SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7th:
 
11:00am #6 OGBUNIGWE v. #3 MOFE STARS SC
 
1:30pm #4 ENYIMBA v. #5 RACCAH ROVERS
 
AUGUST 24, 2008
 
Youngblood 1 Ogbunigwe 1 

YOUNGBLOOD: Cellular – Cecil Cole; Steve Boas; Obi Ezeogu; Akin Odunusi – Ihuoma Onyeso-Nwachukwu (cpt); Rafiu Fakoya; Michael Nwosu; Alpha Nimely; Manfred Tambe – Kissima Kouyate

Subs – Kevin Tabe; Dotun Oyeneyin                                                              [ CAUTIONS – Obi Ezeogu ]

Goals – Rafiu Fakoya (69)

 

OGBUNIGWE: Huspy Ubanwa – Felix Ayuk; Franklin Ekechukwu; Alhaji Tunji; Charles Bendu – Tunde Yussuf (cpt); Charles Oriaku; Kevin Richards; Jide Saba – Sanmi Olatoye; Jossie George

Subs – Francis Ndangum

Goals – Francis Ndangum (90 pen)

 

Eastern United 1 Vasco Da Gama 0

EASTERN UNITED: Ibekwe Anya – Femi Padonu; Abdul Tunis (cpt); Darryl Womack; Chris Nwaeze – Abdul Bangura; Richard Hutchinson; Romeo Ngoti; Justin Nwandu; Galidore Ngapeth – Uzo Anukam

Subs – David Okhumale; Kelechi Abanobi

Goals – David Okhumale (50)

 

VASCO DA GAMA: Melvin Tamangwa (cpt) – Ahmadu Fornah; Salem Njoku; Tunde Abayomi; Obi Ogbu – Nnamdi Anukam; Tunde Lawal; Divine Ahwah; Edward Radder – Mike Annagu; Kweku Amoako

Subs – Steve Levy; Chike Okonta; Prince Ahumibe; Austin Esedebe

Goals – None

 

Inter Nationale 2 Mofe Stars SC 2 

INTER NATIONALE: Anthony Anisha (cpt) – Richard Amudipe; Tony Asoanya; Pius Essa Tabi; Austine Young – John Egbuchiri; Austine Esedebe; Ralph Sanusi; Prince Ahumibe; Best Jesuorobo – Wale Adelakun

Subs – Leo Ankrah; Tay Monikang; Taiwo Adesina

Goals – John Egbuchiri (8); Leo Ankrah (76)

 

MOFE STARS SC: Doyin Akinkuowo – Wale Aiyedogbon; Will Ntoko; Ola Abiodun; Femi Alabi – Rudolph McKenzie; Cheick Ndifang; Abbey Ogunsanya – Lee Chang; Charles Egbuchiri (cpt); Alfred Favez

Subs – Isaac Kamara; Muctarr Sillah; Ayo Adeleye

Goals – Alfred Favez (46); Cheick Ndifang (65 pen)

 
AUGUST 17, 2008 - NWAFOR FA CHALLENGE CUP SEMI FINAL
 
Onadrix Rangers and Inter Nationale to meet in 2008 FA CUP Finals
 
With six cups in thier trophy case, Onadrix Rangers are looking to claim the only one that has eluded them in the last three years. This time, they will face Inter Nationale in the Nwafor FA Cup final after they were taken to penalty kicks by Vasco Da Gama following a goalless draw. Rangers, sporting controversial new team colors, were the dominant side all day long, hitting the cross bar twice, missing a handful of one on one chances and were unable to rattle the net. Ike Akamike nailed the decisive penalty kick during the 4-2 shootout tiebreaker sending Rangers to the finals. In the other semifinal, using a second half header in the 65th minute by skipper Ralph Sanusi, Inter Nationale took down the defending FA Cup champions, Youngblood, 1-0, setting up a scintilating FA Cup championship game date against Onadrix Rangers on September 21. In a game of two halves, Youngblood enjoying the best of play in the first half with Nixon Dimkpa and Kevin Tabe missing three superb scoring opportunites in the games opening 20 minutes. Inter Nationale took control of the game in the second half with Foday Kasia making life miserable for the Youngblood defenders down the left flank. Foday hit the bar in the 61st minute before his corner kick found Sanusi in the penalty box for the header that sent them into the finals.
 
In league action, Enyimba defeated the Veterans, 3-0, moving them to the top of the Conference-B tables for the first time this season. However, they have one game to go while their counterparts, Eastern United and Ogbunigwe, both have two games left. This is one of the tightest playoff races in NSL history with both Conference B & C going down to the wire and possibly coming down to the last day of the season. The Veterans completed their maiden season showing what they lacked in talent they easily made up for it in heart, finishing with one win in nine games. Nixon Dimkpa opened up the scoring for Enyimba in the 8th minute off a header from a corner kick, while Afam Okafor followed with another powerful header off his own during another corner kick in the 18th minute, boosting them to a comfortable 2-0 halftime lead. The Veterans regrouped at the half and had a couple of great chances that got the crowd to their feet but could not convert. Samuel Taylor made it 3-0 in the 70th minute after rounding up the goalkeeper and putting the ball into the empty net. Enyimba is trying to win their conference crown for the first time in their history and improve on their first playoff appearance last season.
 

ONADRIX RANGERS: Emeka Igwe – Tunde Banjo Jr.; Edwin Ebai; Ogom Enwemnwa; Andrew Koroma – Odi Igene; Chucky Nwaochei; Pillars Okies; Leroy Oligie – Mohammed Tarawalli; Jossie George

Subs – Ike Akamike

Goals – None

PKs – Leroy Oligie (g); Mohammed Tarawalli (g); Andrew Koroma (g); Chucky Nwaochei (x); Ike Akamike (g)

 
VASCO DA GAMA: Michael Nwosu – Ahmadu Fornah; Izah Ngo*; Tunde Abayomi; Tony Ojinnaka – Edwad Radder; Chukwu Ukeh; Obi Ogbu; Frank Doh – Prince Ahumibe; Nenshang Ngo

Subs – Mike Annagu; Steve Levy; Chike Okonta

Goals – None

PKs – Tunde Abayomi (g); Frank Doh (x); Mike Annagu (g); Nenshang Ngo (x)

 

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INTER NATIONALE: Ebe Matey* - Tony Asoanya; Emmanuel Ebong; Walter Kome; Abdul Cole – John Egbuchiri; Foday Kasia; Ralph Sanusi (cpt); Isaac Kamara - Moyo Falana; Wale Adelakun

Subs – Richard Amudipe; Nenshang Ngo; Henry Ogege*                          [ CAUTIONS – John Egbuchiri ]

Goals – Ralph Sanusi (65)

 

YOUNGBLOOD: Sean Thompson – Cecil Cole; Obi Ezeogu; Ifediora Gbugu; Wunmi Oyeneyin – Akin Odunusi; Dotun Oyeneyin; Ayonio Goriola; Ihuoma Onyeso-Nwachukwu (cpt); Kevin Tabe – Nixon Dimkpa

Subs – Rafiu Fakoya; Steve Boas; Jossie George; David Okhumale

Goals – None

 

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ENYIMBA: Ayonio Goriola – Ibrahim Fakoya; Gbenga Oduola; Chuck Okeke; Bayo Brown – Afam Okafor; Ndubueze Onyike; Tochi Duhu; Samuel Taylor; Cedric Mansaray – Nixon Dimkpa

Subs – Oji Madukwe

Goals – Nixon Dimkpa (8); Afam Okafor (19); Samuel Taylor (70)

 

VETERANS: Anthony Anisha – Michael Nwosu; Ken Nwafor (cpt); Ossai Glover; Henry Ndukuba – Victor Mbanefo; Chikwado Mbanefo; Justice Matey; Elo Onyechi – Obioha Obi; Chris Odiana

Subs – Jerry Duhu

Goals – None

 
 
AUGUST 10, 2008
 

Onadrix Rangers hold off Eastern United, 2-1; Clinch Conference-A

 

Using a two man advantage, Onadrix Rangers capitalized by scoring two goals in the games first five minutes and held off a second half rally by Eastern United, in their 2-1 victory. With the win, Rangers clinched their fifth consecutive conference crown and need only one point to secure the top seed in the NSL playoffs, as they prepare to defend their Nzenwa Trophy. On the other hand, Eastern United suffered their second straight league defeat after such a promising midseason report. EU’s explosive offense featuring Uzo Anukam, Galidore Ngapeth and Richard Hutchinson was held in check for most of the day as Rangers defense led by Ike Akamike and Andrew Koroma withstood the challenge. Pillars Okies opened the scoring for Rangers in the 3rd minute on a swift counter attack while Samuel Osagie doubled the lead in the 5th minute with a gorgeous move inside the penalty box. EU’s Steve Levy, on loan from VDG, narrowed the deficit in the 60th minute off a corner kick with a blast from an improbable angle. With a chance to tie the game, Galidore’s powerful header was unable to beat Rangers goalkeeper and skipper, Emeka Igwe, in the 80th minute preserving the victory for Rangers.

 
ONADRIX RANGERS: Emeka Igwe (cpt) - Ike Akamike; Ogom Enwemnwa; John Suku-Samba; Andrew Koroma - Odi Igene; Eric Kreme; Chucky Nwaochei; Pillars Okies - Mohammed Tarawalli; Samuel Osagie
Subs - King Smith; Saheed Akinkuolie                 [ CAUTIONS - Emeka Igwe ]
Goals - Pillars Okies (3); Samuel Osagie (5)
 
EASTERN UNITED: Ibekwe Anya (cpt) - Chidi Onyewu; Seyi Rotimi; Oji Madukwe; Chris Nwaeze - Aham Onyike; Frank Oguno; Steve Levy; Richard Hutchinson - Galidore Ngapeth; Uzo Anukam
Subs - Justin Nwandu                                             [ CAUTIONS - None ]
Goals - Steve Levy (60)
 

Mofe Stars SC neutralize Vasco Da Gama, 2-0

 

Alfred Favez second half insurance goal, his 7th goal of the season, helped Mofe Stars SC notch a much needed victory over Vasco Da Gama, and lift them to the top of the muddled Conference-C Standings. Muctarr Sillah scored the first goal for MSSC in the 19th minute off a goalkeeper rebound, following a free kick just outside the box. Charles Egbuchiri missed a platinum chance to score from the 2 yard line when he blasted the bar off the cross bar after a goalkeeper error left him with an empty net and an opportunity to bury VDG. Moments later, he set up Favez with a beautiful pass in the 59th minute for the two goal advantage. Vasco's Ngo Nenshang missed a penalty kick in the 84th minute and a golden chance to put his team back late in the game, stranding his team with the 2-0 loss.

 
MOFE STARS SC: Cellular - Ola Abiodun; Rudolph McKenzie; Femi Alabi; Dwight Jackson - Daniel Olanrewaju; Sadiq Folawiyo; Charles Egbuchiri (cpt); Muctarr Sillah - Lee Chang; Alfred Favez
Subs - Senior Brown; Will Ntoko; Isaac Kamara                            [ CAUTIONS - Rudolph McKenzie ]
Goals - Muctarr Sillah (19); Alfred Favez (59)
 
VASCO DA GAMA: Max Spazian - Tunde Abayomi; Lucky Odeh (cpt); Tony Ojinnaka; Obi Ogbu - Kenneth Ugbodu; Iyke Egbuchiri; Edward Radder; Chukwu Ukeh; Frank Doh - Ngo Nenshang
Subs - Mike Annagu; Austin Esedebe; Dave Tomlinson; Michael Nwosu             [ CAUTIONS - Obi Ogbu ]
Goals - None
 
Ogbunigwe hammer Veterans, 4-1
 
Ogbunigwe finally moved to the top of the Conference-B standings with a convincing 4-1 victory over the Veterans. In the process, they extended their unbetaen streak to 6 games. Ogbunigwe used two goals each from Sanmi Olatoye and Jossie George on either side of the half to put away the Veterans. The Vets' Uduak Suzuki recorded his very first NSL goal in the 28th minute after Ben Iwuchukwu dummied an OGB defender and slotted the ball under the goalkeeper, slamming home the ball just as it was about to cross the goal line. Jossie George missed a chance for a hat trick with a point blank miss in the 85th minute. Ogbunigwe now leads Conference-B with the narrowest of margins, while controlling their destiny with two games left.
 
OGBUNIGWE: Chuks Aghanya - Felix Ayuk (cpt); Charles Oriaku; Alhaji Tunji; Charles Bendu - Sanmi Olatoye; Kevin Richards; Jide Saba; Tunde Yussuf - Ben Gordon; Jossie George
Subs - E.K. Ume                                                                                       [ CAUTIONS - None ]
Goals - Jossie George (4, 70); Sanmi Olatoye (17 pen, 61)
 
VETERANS: Michael Nwosu - Oji Madukwe (cpt); Charles Okeke; Wale Aiyedogbon; Fatai Atere - *Henry Ogege; Uduak Suzuki; David Tomlinson; Ossai Glover - Chris Odiana; Ben Iwuchukwu
Subs - Donald Igwebuike; Henry Ndukuba                                         [ CAUTIONS - Uduak Suzuki ]
Goals - Uduak Suzuki (28)
 
AUGUST 3, 2008 (NWAFOR FA CUP)

Inter wallops Enyimba, 3-1


Onadrix Rangers move on to the Semi finals, 4-1

The Bloods defeat Raccah, 3-1
(by Obi 'Danda', NSL special reporter)

As the heat from the Saharabegan to ease away, the cool breeze from the woods swept over Colmar Manor ballfield leaving an atmosphere the likes of soccer superstars would enjoy. It was roughly 5.00p.m when the boys in the yellow walked onto the pitch while the men of green blood jogged onto the pitch with confidence of a Sampson. It wasn’t long before I realized that the boys in the yellow weren’t the original members except but four Stone, Shola, Bidemi, Francis, Abbey and Taye their goal keeper. The men of green blood had their generals; Ihuoma, Manfred, Akin, Rafiu, Ayo, Ifediora & Obi Apkuotubo. The funniest thing about the game is the fact that the first two goals were initiated by borrowed members of other teams. Including in the line up was Ebe Matur aka fantastic magnetic hands; a 17 yrs old rookie with serious talent. He was the keeper for Raccah and also Raccah borrowed the skills of Eric and Akamike both of Rangers FC, General Taiwo of Vasco and Legendary Justice. While YB added the “Schillachistic” skills of Cedric Mansaray, Chucky and mercenary Martial and keeper Ejim.

The game started with Raccah showing skills amongst the veterans knocking the ball left and right until the men of green blood said “no more”; of course the players could feel the pressure of coach / Owner Joe Smith doing his usual rants and electrifying boogie. YB took control of the midfield mounting pressure on the defense of Raccah. The first opportunity came for young blood when Ihuoma rifled a shot only to be mellowed by the magnetic hands of Ebe into corner. YB yet had another chance with Rafiu facing one on one opportunity against goal keeper only to be saved again by the youthful skilled keeper. Another on chance came 12 minutes into the game, this time around it was Cedric who had beaten two defenders to meet a one on one with goal keeper but found his shot parried away to corner. At this point, Owner Joesmith was pleading with Amadioha asking for deliverance because he sees a replay of their last game against Raccah replaying before his20own very eyes. A spectator yelled out saying all Raccah needs is one opportunity and it will be over. Shortly after that statement, Raccah took possession of the mid field with Stone, Taiwo and Francis masterminding the midfield. It reminded me of Nigeria vs Brazil in Atlanta where Papillo, Okocha and Oliseh mesmerized the crowd. It started from Stone to Taiwo who beat one attacker racing for the ball then to Francis who then passed the ball back to Stone aka Ajaku who now with no look pass rocketed the ball to speedster Eric. Eric beat one player and the rushing goalkeeper to the left and was then followed by goalie for a PK; Abbey converted the goal. At this point, YB felt hopeless that after much domination of game, Raccah scored with one only chance. The men of green blood bowed their heads down as they passed the ball in the center only to hear a blow of the whistle to end the half.

The second half began with a renewed YB; I believe Herbalist must have given them some concoction. The attack was focus and intense if I didn’t know any better I had say they received some technical information about how to attack Raccah and disarm them of their ammunition. The first goal came in after a skill displacement of two Raccharians resulting in a penalty. Capt. Ihuoma had carefully displaced two mid field generals name with held for special reasons and had a powerful side pass to on coming Rafiu. But the play became more exciting after seeing Obi Akpuotubo run for the ball and in an untapped skillful manner; never in my life seen before displace defensive player of the season by shielding the ball thereby faking away the defender and in the same motion putting the ball to his left heading for the goal keeper (all in one motion, no exaggeration) was dragged down by the defender resulting in a PK. Whoelse but Ify Boy converted the penalty although Goalie Ebe made good contact on the ball. The goal brought about newer spirits to the men of green blood and that’s all they needed. From the keeper, to the defense to the midfield and the attack was in sync. Ejim took care of the post, Ifediora and Akin masterminded the defense, Major Manfred and Capt. Ihuoma tormented the midfield while Rafiu and Ayo hovered the wings, almighty Cedric just annihilated the defense with his speed and skills. Raccah occasionally rifled attacks but was subdued by the defense of YB. Bidemi proved that his a physical, fast and hungry attacker but Ifediora kept telling him that there w as no food. The second goal came from after Manfred artfully won an air ball and displayed two midfielders sweeping the ball to Rafiu at the far left corner which non hesitantly crossed the ball to Ihuoma and with a one time touch pass to Cedric, he rocketed the ball into the nets; the nets shook for 1 minute before settling. At this point, Raccah full backs were beginning to breathe from every hole in their God given body. It reminded of that song Tony I week’s protégé Austin Milano where he sang “Aghawo work e tire, Kalu work e tire, na who I go call in order na only God na him get the answer; eh aeiahhaaa!! Nne mo aha!!”. The third goal game ten minutes later when Ayo with a long pass from Ifediora beat the full back and crossed the ball to no one but Cedric Mansaray who in two taps left the ball in a nice volley in the nets again singing. At this point, the game had demoralized Raccah but for some reason had the adverse effect on YB. Mission being they must bury Raccah alive or dead; Raccha said no way with new boosted energy made a couple of runs at YB. In one instance, Eric beat two defenders to meeting Ejim who caught the ball and the other being Baba Abbey dribbling and woefully displacing three YB players but only saved by Ejim again. Shortly after, game was blown to an end seeing that fatigue was taking over as people started doing more t alking than playing. Persons to watch out for in next years draft Goal Keeper Ebe Matur.


JULY 20, 2008

Enyimba zaps Inter Nationale, 3-1


Nixon Dimkpa, the 2007 NSL defensive player of the year, recorded the fastest hat trick in NSL history when he scored all three goals in a 3-1 victory over a depleted Inter Nationale squad that started the game with only seven players. In what was anticipated as a coming out party for Conference-C leaders Inter Nationale the bulk of their team decided not to show up despite being without the services of team captain, Anthony Anisha, and midfield general, Walter Kome, who were both sitting out the game due to a one game league suspension for disciplinary reasons. Enyimba took full control and early advantage as Dimkpa started the game in the attacking front using a four man advantage during the entire abbreviated first half, lighting up the board in the 4th minute off a throw in, then in the 11th minute after beating an offside trap, and completing his feat in the 15th minute connecting on a header off a free kick. Ben Iwuchukwu missed a chance to get on the score sheet when he saw his wicked volley crash off the cross bar. In the second half, Inter actually outplayed Enyimba despite still playing a man down. Foday Kasia literally carried Inter on his shoulders and desperately tried to bring his team back during the furious second half rally. He scored in the 53rd minute with a scintillating solo run down the right flank, beating two defenders, then cutting in front of the goal line before smashing the ball into the net. In the process it ended Enyimba’s three game shutout streak which tied a league record. However, with the win, Enyimba extended their unbeaten streak to six games and temporarily moved into a tie with idle Eastern United with 13 points in Conference-B.

 
ENYIMBA: Kevin Wong – Gbenga Oduola; Kennedy Ugbodu (cpt); Ndubueze Onyike; Oji Madukwe – Afam Okafor; Tochi Duhu; Cedric Mansaray; Samuel Taylor – Ben Iwuchukwu; Nixon Dimkpa

Subs – Silas Anamaelechi [ CAUTIONS – Ndubueze Onyike ]

Goals – Nixon Dimkpa (4, 11, 15)

INTER NATIONALE: Benjamin John-Dawoda – Tony Asoanya; Emmanuel Ebong; Austine Young; Leo Ankrah – Wale Adelakun; Richard Amudipe; John Egbuchiri; Foday Kasia (cpt) – Richard Opanuga

Subs – None [ CAUTIONS – None ]

Goals – Foday Kasia (53)


Rangers denied top spot; End in draw 1-1 with Ogbunigwe


Onadrix Rangers moved within a point of clinching Conference-A and a playoff spot with a 1-1 draw against their perennial running mates, Ogbunigwe, in an exciting contest. Ogbunigwe, trying to keep pace with Enyimba who won earlier in the day, came out with early command of the midfield but were unable to get any good cracks on target until a Charles Oriaku blast from 25 yards out sailed over the bar in the 6th minute. Sanmi Olatoye also missed an opportunity to put his team ahead in the 18th minute when his header missed the intended target. Rangers best scoring chance in the first half came when Ogom Enwemnwa placed a perfect cross off the left flank to Pillars Okies but he narrowly missed the target with his grounder shot in the 22nd minute. The second half continued with both sides trying to control the midfield and Oriaku barely missed scoring off a header in the 49th minute. However, in the 60th minute, Ogbunigwe finally got on the scoreboard when skipper Tunde Yussuf nodded home the ball off an E.K. Ume corner kick allowing them to take the one goal advantage. Rangers stepped up their attack and tied the game in the 68th minute on a violent penalty kick from Ike Akamike after King Smith was brought down in the penalty box by Alhaji Tunji, following a solo run through the middle of the Ogbunigwe defense. Both teams desperately tried to find the winning goal but were unable to solve each others staunch defense ending the game at 1-1. Ogbunigwe remains in hot pursuit of Eastern and Enyimba in the Conference-B standings despite extending their unbeaten streak to five games.

 
ONADRIX RANGERS: Emeka Igwe (cpt) – Ike Akamike; Ogom Enwemnwa; Odi Igene; Andrew Koroma – Omotayo Coker; Ejim Ike Kr; Ericeme; Chucky Nwaochei – Pillars Okies; Saheed Akinkuolie

Subs – King Smith [ CAUTIONS – Ogom Enwemnwa ]

Goals – Ike Akamike (68 pen)

OGBUNIGWE: George Mansaray – Franklin Ekechukwu; Nick Tabe; Alhaji Tunji; Charles Bendu – Chuks Aghanya; Jasper Asadju; Jide Saba; Tunde Yussuf (cpt); E.K. Ume – Sanmi Olatoye

Subs – Jossie George; Charles Oriaku; James Hall; Francis Ndangum [ CAUTIONS – George Mansaray; Charles Oriaku ]

Goals – Tunde Yussuf (60)


Raccah Rovers slip past Youngblood, 1-0


With both teams facing the difficult prospects of missing NSL postseason action, Raccah Rovers improved their chances of making the playoffs with a critical 1-0 victory over Youngblood and moved to the top of Conference-C with 14 points. It is still confounding that the Rovers’ were able to hang in there and snap Youngblood’s five game unbeaten streak despite their complete tardiness by starting the game with nine players against a fully loaded Youngblood squad. The Rovers’ defense led by Lato Achikeh, Mohammed Zongo and Kingsley Bonsu was sensational the entire day especially holding the Youngblood attack to very few chances in the first half which ended up goalless. In the second half, Youngblood wore down the Rovers’ defense, mounting excessive pressure with numerous scoring chances led by skipper Ihuoma Onyeso-Nwachukwu but were thwarted by a superb game in goal by fill in goalkeeper Chuks Aghanya who was credited with at least five crucial saves that brought the Colmar Manor fans to their feet and kept Raccah in the game. The Rovers’ attack was toothless for most of the day but converted their only real chance when it counted the most in the 69th minute when the always dangerous Ipolite Aly scored the lone goal on a swift counterattack with a wicked shot that left Youngblood keeper, Sean Thompson, with no chance, giving them the precious lead they never relinquished. YB's Steve Boas had a golden chance to tie the game with a breakaway in the 83rd minute but was folied again by Aghanya. In the process, Youngblood is now in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time in team history and must now come up with a huge victory over Ogbunigwe in the second to last week of the season to have a chance or else need a lot of help.

 
RACCAH ROVERS: Chuks Aghanya – Lato Achikeh; Kingsley Bonsu; Jerry Duhu; Mohammed Zongo – Jasper Asadju; Francis Molokwu; Abbey Eldred; Bidemi Abiola – J.P. Iweanoge; Ipolite Aly (cpt)

Subs – None [ CAUTIONS – Ipolite Aly ]

Goals – Ipolite Aly (69)

YOUNGBLOOD: Sean Thompson – Uwakwe Azikiwe; Cecil Cole; Ifediora Gbugu; Akin Odunusi – Steve Boas; Alpha Nimely; Dotun Oyeneyin; Manfred Tambe; Kevin Tabe – Ihuoma Onyeso-Nwachukwu (cpt)

Subs – Rafiu Fakoya; Obi Ezeogu; Wunmi Oyeneyin; Michael Nwosu [ CAUTIONS – Alpha Nimely ]

Goals – None


JULY 13, 2008
 

Inter Nationale take bite out of Veterans, 3-1

(by Tochi Duhu, NSL special reporter)

 
Wale Adelakun scored two decisive second half goals to give Inter Nationale a 3-1 win over the Veterans, moving them to the top of the Conference-C standings. The Vets actually had the first crack at goal in the 3rd minute coming off the boots of Justice Matay, which was saved by Inter’s goalkeeper Benjamin John-Dawoda, following a good cross from the left flank by Victor Mbanefo. Moments later, a clumsy back pass from the Vets midfield strongman, Donald Igwebuike, nearly led to the opening goal for Inter, but for the timely clearance and subsequent save off a follow up shot, by Vets’ goalkeeper, Remy Ogugua. In the 10th minute, Inter were awarded a free kick just outside the area which was taken by Emmanuel Ebong, and Anthony Anisha’s poweful header narrowly missed the target by inches. In the 15th minute, Inter’s Tony Asoanya inadvertently handled the ball in the box and the subsequent penalty awarded to the Vets was smacked in by Ken Nwafor, giving the Vets an early 1-0 lead. Inter regrouped quickly and equalized through Foday Kasia after he sped through the Vets defense and poked the ball beyond the goalkeepers reach. Kasia gave the Vets defense, led by Uwakwe Azikiwe, fits throughout the first half, which ended tied at 1-1. On resumption of the hostilities in the 2nd half, Inter quickly went ahead within a minute after Wale Adelakun ran through a stranded Vets defense to slot in the second goal. However, the Vets came back strongly and had various attempts by substitute Anthony “Banta” Nkwoh, Justice Matay and Chris Odiana nipped in the bud by the agile defensive play from Moyo Falana, Emmanuel Ebong and Tony Asoanya at the Inter back line. Moments later John Egbuchiri of Inter whisked his shot over the bar in a hurried attempt to put the game beyond the Vets reach. In the 70th minute, Wale Adelakun was singing again when he blasted home a shot during a goalmouth melee, giving Inter a two goal cushion, 3-1. In the 79th minute, Chris Odiana found himself on the ground in the box, and a controversial penalty was awarded to the Vets which was attempted again by Nwafor but this time it was saved by the agile moves of John-Dawoda. The game subsequently became a ding dong affair until the end, with Inter completing the 3-1 win and pocketing the precious three points in the process.

 
INTER NATIONALE: Benjamin John-Dawoda – Wale Adelakun; Richard Amudipe; Anthony Anisha; Tony Asoanya; Ebong Emmanuel; Walter Kome; Moyo Falana; Ambrose Akenji; John Egbuchiri; Foday Kasia

Subs – Richard Opanuga

Goals – Foday Kasia (20); Wale Adelakun (46, 70)

VETERANS: Remy Ogugua – Ken Nwafor; Ifeanyi Ndolo; Oji Madukwe; Leo Anigbo; Charles Okeke; Ken Mbachu; Victor Mbanefo; Uwakwe Azikiwe; Donald Igwebuike; Justice Matey

Subs – Anthony Nkwoh; Emma Ozokwelu; Chris Odiana

Goals – Ken Nwafor (15 pen)


Ogbunigwe and Enyimba remain unsettled in goalless draw


In an extremely physical and defensive game, Enyimba was unable to exact revenge from an early season loss to their Conference-B foe, Ogbunigwe, as both teams settled for a goalless draw on a hot and muggy day. Eastern United benefited the most with the result as they continue to hold a slight three point advantage in the tightly contested division with 13 points. Ogbunigwe still has a game in hand but trail United by 6 goals for the conference lead, who also beat them earlier in the season, 4-0, their only blemish on the season. Ogbunigwe is now on a four game unbeaten streak since that loss, while Enyimba has a five game unbeaten streak of their own, including a league record third goalless draw.


Vasco Da Gama Gets by Rangers, 2-1


Vasco Da Gama got back into the playoff mix thanks to an impressive 2-1 victory over Onadrix Rangers. In the process, they snapped Rangers six game unbeaten streak and prevented them from clinching an early playoff spot. However, they are still in ninth place overall on points with nine, and difficult games still remaining against Mofe Stars, Eastern United and Raccah Rovers. Rangers opened the scoring with Odi Igene and took the 1-0 lead into the half. In the second half, Vasco’s Divine Awah scored to even things up. Moments later, Rangers’ Julian Appiah and Ogom Enwemnwa were sent off the pitch for dissent and excessive physical play respectively reducing their team to nine men. Vasco capitalized on the numerical advantage and Ngor Nenshang electrified the crowd with a rocket launcher that rattled the roof of the net, from an improbable angle, in the final minutes of the game to notch the 2-1 victory.


Mofe Stars late goal shocks Raccah Rovers, 1-0


In the final game of the day, Mofe Stars SC used a late second half goal by Abdul Muma to beat Raccah Rovers, 1-0, and kept pace with Inter Nationale in the rugged Conference-C standings. At the end of day, only one point separates the three teams. Rovers’ have played one additional game and now look at the prospects of possibly not making the playoffs after leading the league in points at midseason. Worse yet, the Rovers’ suffered their third straight loss while Inter Nationale, who lead their conference on goal differential, are unbeaten in 6 out of their last seven games, after opening the season with a forfeit loss to the Rovers’. A pivotal matchup late in the season between Mofe Stars and Inter could possibly decide who takes the division crown and the automatic entry into the playoffs. On the other hand, Raccah has a crucial game against a rejuvenated and hot Youngblood FC team on a five game unbeaten streak and also needing a victory to stay alive for a postseason spot.

 
MOFE STARS SC: Cellular – Ola Abiodun; Rudolph McKenzie; Femi Alabi; Joe Lewis – Will Ntoko; Cheick Ndifang; Muctarr Sillah (cpt); Kemar Smith – Abdul Muma; Alfred Favez

Subs – Kofi Anani

Goals – Abdul Muma (80)

RACCAH ROVERS: Taiye Akinmboni – Lato Achikeh; Tunde Banjo Jr.; Jerry Duhu; Mohammed Zongo – Francis Molokwu; Johnny Sessay; Abbey Eldred; Donald Igwebuike – Umarr Deenkoroma; Ipolite Aly

Subs – Shola Adekanye

Goals – None


JULY 6, 2008 - NWAFOR FA CUP
 

Inter Nationale knocks off Ogbunigwe, 1-0


Inter Nationale booked its ticket into the quarterfinals of the Nwafor FA Challenge Cup with a 1-0 victory over Ogbunigwe. Wale Adelakun found the back of the net on a rebound shot in the 69th minute after a beautiful a give and go with Moyo Falana during a contentious second half of end to end soccer action. Ogbunigwe’s Sanmi Olatoye missed two golden opportunities to tie the game in the final moments of the contest. Inter's Foday Kasia also hit the upright in the final minute of the game, blowing a one on one chance to put a nail in the coffin with the goal keeper at his mercy. He also picked up the only caution in the game for time wasting in otherwise a cleanly played game.

 
INTER NATIONALE: Anthony Anisha (cpt) – Richard Amudipe; Tony Asoanya; Leo Ankrah; Austine Young – Richard Opanuga; John Egbuchiri; *Bob Anthony; Wale Adelakun – Ken Nwaneri; Moyo Falana

Subs – Emmanuel Ebong; Foday Kasia; Walter Kome; Michael Nwosu

Goals – Wale Adelakun (69) [ CAUTIONS – Foday Kasia ]

OGBUNIGWE: George Manasaray – Nick Tabe; Alhaji Tunji; Jude Okpala; Franklin Ekechukwu – Tunde Yussuf (cpt); Chukwuma Aghanya; Sanmi Olatoye; Jide Saba; E.K. Ume – Charles Oriaku

Subs – *Kunle Banjo; Ben Gordon

Goals – None [ CAUTIONS – None ]


Raccah Rovers hold off pesky Veterans, 2-1


Ipolite Aly scored the critical winning goal in the 29th minute after terrorizing the Veterans defense repeatedly in the first half as Raccah Rovers secured its qualification into the Nwafor FA Cup quarterfinals in their 2-1 win. Raccah’s Abbey Eldred opened the scoring in the 6th minute on a wicked rocket, while Aly hit the bar twice before connecting and sending them into the half with a 2-0 lead. The Veterans regrouped after the half time break and actually had the better of play. Veterans’ Chris Odiana scored on a goalkeeper error in the 73rd minute. In the 85th minute, the Veterans seemed to have completed an improbable comeback and equalized the game on Morgan Eichie’s indirect free kick inside the penalty box, following another goalkeeper error, but the referee justifiably disallowed the goal ending it at 2-1 for the Rovers’.

 
RACCAH ROVERS: Iheanyi Okoro – Lato Achikeh; Tunde Banjo Jr.; Jerry Duhu; Mohammed Zongo – Taiye Akinmboni; Johnny Sessay (cpt); Abbey Eldred; Donald Igwebuike – Ken Nwaneri; Ipolite Aly

Subs – Shola Adekanye; E.K. Ume [ CAUTIONS – None ]

Goals – Abbey Eldred (6); Ipolite Aly (29)

VETERANS: Chuks Aghanya – Oji Madukwe (cpt); Henry Ndukuba; Jude Okpala; Tunde Banjo Sr. – Michael Nwosu; Ifeanyi Ndolo; Morgan Eichie; Adetunji Aderemi; Ben Iwuchukwu – Obioha Obi

Subs – Kingsley Achikeh; Leo Anigbo; Ken Mbachu; Ken Okoji; Uduak Zuzuki; Chris Odiana; Michael Nwosu (GK)

Goals – Chris Odiana (73) [ CAUTIONS – None ]


Vasco Da Gama escape Mofe Stars SC in Penalty Shootout!


Vasco Da Gama’s league season is not going as well as planned but they secured a spot in the Nwafor FA Cup semifinals where they await the winner of the Eastern United / Onadrix Rangers quarterfinal game. They defeated Mofe Stars SC in a penalty kick shootout following a 1-1 deadlock at full time in an entertaining match played under a torrential downpour in the second half. MSSC’s Daniel Olanrewaju curled in a beautiful corner kick that was mishandled by Vasco’s fill in goalkeeper, Chuks Aghanya, in the 29th minute. Vasco’s Edward Radder looped in a gorgeous shot to nod the game at 1-1 in the 70th minute, during the downpour. The game was non stop action packed the rest of the way as MSSC’s Alfred Favez missed several chances, Abdul Muma hit the bar and Dwight Jackson’s viscious header was saved in the last 10 minutes of the contest. The game remained tied after the first five kicks were completed by each side. Vasco’s Nnamdi Anukam sent in the winning kick sending his team into the semifinals.

 
VASCO DA GAMA: Chuks Aghanya – Tunde Abayomi; Taiye Adewunmi (cpt); Lato Achikeh; Obi Ogbu – Charles Oriaku; Salem Njoku; Edward Radder; Chuks Etolue – Nnamdi Anukam; Mike Annagu

Subs – Iyke Egbuchiri (GK); Austin Esedebe; Ngor Nenshang; Uzo Obiora; Chukwu Ukeh

Goals – Edward Radder (70) [ CAUTIONS - None ]

PK – Tunde Abayomi (g); Edward Radder (x); Lato Achikeh (g); Ngor Nenshang (g); Taiye Adewunmi (g); Obi Ogbu (g); Nnamdi Anukam (g)

MOFE STARS SC: Michael Nwosu – Femi Alabi (cpt); *Steven Nwamkpa; Dwight Jackson; Ola Abiodun – Kofi Anani; Muctarr Sillah; Abdul Muma; Kemar Smith – Daniel Olanrewaju; Alfred Favez

Subs – Will Ntoko; Wale Aiyedogbon; Abbey Eldred; *Papa Koduah

Goals – Daniel Olanrewaju (29) [ CAUTIONS - None ]

PK – Steven Nwamkpa (g); Dwight Jackson (g); Papa Koduah (x); Muctarr Sillah (g); Kemar Smith (g); Abdul Muma (g); Femi Alabi (x)


JUNE 29, 2008
 

Rangers Wallop Raccah Rovers, 4-2


By the end of a sweltering afternoon, the defending champion Onadrix Rangers completed the finishing touches on their nemesis, Raccah Rovers, in a 4-2 dismantling of one of the NSL’s top defenses. This was the second week in a row the Rovers’ had been put on blast and allowed at least 3 goals in a contest. Coming into the game, Rangers had not beaten Raccah Rovers since August 2003. With the victory, Rangers extended their unbeaten streak to five games and now lead the league with 16 points and goals scored, following Eastern United’s loss later in the day. As a matter of fact, once again, Raccah Rovers drew first blood in the 6th minute with a vicious rocket from Abbey Eldred, who had a brace on the day. Following the goal, Rangers stepped up the pressure and took the game to the Rovers’. Rangers Samuel Osagie missed a sitter early on and skipper Julian Appiah saw his free kick sail over the bar in the 20th minute. Eric Kreme then came into the game and started to put his stamp on the match. First he barely missed scoring on a header in the 21st minute before finding the back of the net in the 24th minute with a tap in off a cross from Mohammed Tarawalli, tying the game at 1-1. Odi Igene gave Rangers the lead for good when his clever chip sailed over the onrushing Rover’s keeper in the 30th minute, gifting Rangers a 2-1 halftime advantage. Rangers continued their assault on the Rovers’ defense after the restart and Kreme added his second goal in the contest following a goalkeeper error, coasting the ball into the empty net and a 3-1 lead in the 67th minute. Eldred notched his second goal, four minutes later, off a slight deflection from a ferocious free kick, cutting down their deficit to 3-2. Osagie then capped his team’s performance with a wicked shot in the 85th minute to complete the 4-2 triumph.

 
ONADRIX RANGERS: Pillars Okies – Ike Akamike; Ogom Enwemnwa; John Suku-Tamba; Andrew Koroma – Chucky Nwaochei; Mohammed Tarawalli; Julian Appiah (cpt); Ejim Ike – Odi Igene; Samuel Osagie

Subs – Emeka Igwe (GK); Eric Kreme; Pillars Okies [ CAUTIONS – None ]

Goals – Eric Kreme (24, 67); Odi Igene (30); Samuel Osagie (85)

RACCAH ROVERS: Taiye Akinmboni – Tunde Banjo Jr. (cpt); Jerry Duhu; Francis Molokwu; Mohammed Zongo – Andy Ojinnaka; Johnny Sessay; Gbenga Adeyokunnu; Bidemi Abiola – Abbey Eldred; Ipolite Aly

Subs – Lato Achikeh; Kingsley Bonsu [ CAUTIONS – Kingsley Bonsu; RED – Kingsley Bonsu ]

Goals – Abbey Eldred (6, 71)


Vasco Da Gama saved by the bell; tie Inter Nationale, 1-1


Inter Nationale and Vasco Da Gama ended a volatile and explosive contest in a 1-1 draw, following a late and controversial penalty kick awarded in the 90th minute. Vasco were in danger of suffering a third consecutive defeat and scoreless outing when the penalty was awarded in the dying minutes of the game. The game was interrupted as a minor scuffle broke out before the penalty kick was taken as supporters for Inter Nationale were all up in arms as they contended the validity for the spot kick. Besides that, the game was passionate as both teams needed to collect much required victories to stay in the hunt for a playoff spot. Vasco controlled the game as they welcomed back last season’s playoff hero, David Unesco, in his first game this season. Unesco was dominant all day long but could not find his scoring touch as he squandered several opportunities to give his team an early lead especially in the 9th and 12th minutes. As fate would have it, Inter Nationale, who was not credited with a shot on target in the first half actually took the lead in the 25th minute with an own goal, as Vasco’s Obi Ogbu inadvertently headed the ball into his squads net putting them in a 1-0 deficit. In the second half, Vasco’s Unesco continued to mount pressure on the Inter defense but could not rattle the net as he produced a spectacular save from Inter’s goalkeeper, Benjamin John-Dawoda, in the 60th minute, following a powerful header. Unesco missed another golden chance to get on the score sheet in the 75th minute and then five minutes later wasted a one on one chance to nod the game. In between those missed chances, Chuks Etolue also badly missed his shot to get Vasco back in the game. Unesco eventually converted the contentious penalty kick, nodding the game at 1-1, to save Vasco from possible early contention from earning a playoff spot.

 
INTER NATIONALE: Benjamin John-Dawoda – Tony Asoanya; Emmanuel Ebong (cpt); Walter Kome; Leo Ankrah – Anthony Anisha; Wale Adelakun; Richard Opanuga; John Egbuchiri; Foday Kasia – Moyo Falana

Subs – Michael Nwosu [ CAUTIONS – Foday Kasia; Walter Kome ]

Goals – Obi Ogbu (25, Own Goal)

VASCO DA GAMA: Ahmadu Fornah – Kenneth Ugbodu; Tony Ojinnaka; Obi Ogbu; Melvin Tamangwa – Tunde Lawal (cpt); Austin Esedebe; Chuks Etolue; Frank Doh – Mike Annagu; David Unesco

Subs – Iyke Egbuchiri; Uzo Obiora; Chike Okonta; Edward Radder

Goals – David Unesco (90 pen) [ CAUTIONS – Tunde Lawal ]


Youngblood stifle Eastern United, 1-0


Youngblood’s defense suffocated Eastern United’s high flying attack in a thorough and well deserved 1-0 conquest. The over flow crowd was looking forward to hopefully enjoying another scoring fest from the newly crowned NSL scoring record holder, Uzo Anukam (11 goals), who has scored more goals than five teams, including their opponent, Youngblood. What the crowd ended up watching was Anukam largely neutralized by a tight Youngblood defense and team that was in a desperate mode, as they were facing the prospects of possible elimination from playoff contention with a loss. With the victory, Youngblood ended Eastern’s four game unbeaten streak, while defeating a team that had not been shut out all season, and had scored and impressive 12 goals in their last four games. Youngblood came to the pitch fired up and it showed in their effort as they dominated the overall play from the opening whistle until the end. As a matter of fact, Youngblood took this game so serious that Kissima Kouyate made his first appearance of the season and was a factor as soon as he entered the contest in the second half. A lackluster first half produced nothing of note from both sides. Kouyate announced his arrival in the 62nd minute with a powerful header that was saved by Eastern goalkeeper, Ibekwe Anya. Youngblood’s Ayo Goriola missed a great chance to open his NSL scoring account in the 70th minute during a breakaway but tripped over himself. A little later, Kouyate found himself free down the right flank before sending in a beautiful square pass for an easy tap in by skipper Ihuoma Onyenso-Nwachukwu, giving Youngblood the precious 1-0 lead, in the 76th minute. Kouyate should have added to the lead in the 82nd minute but badly missed a one on one opportunity with Ibekwe at his mercy. A free kick from YB’s Dotun Oyeneyin was inches from sneaking inside the upright a minute later, however Youngblood was happy to end up with the 1-0 victory.

 
YOUNGBLOOD: Sean Thompson – Steve Boas; Cecil Cole; Obi Ezeogu; Wunmi Oyeneyin – Rafiu Fakoya; Dotun Oyeneyin; Ihuoma Onyenso-Nwachukwu (cpt); Manfred Tambe; Kevin Tabe – Alpha Nimely

Subs – Kissima Kouyate; Ifediora Gbugu; Ayo Goriola [ CAUTIONS – None ]

Goals – Ihuoma Onyenso-Nwachukwu (76)

EASTERN UNITED: Ibekwe Anya – Itotoh Akhigbe; Aham Onyike (cpt); Nonso Iweanoge; Segun Owolabi – Richard Hutchinson; Paul Okhumale; Justin Nwandu; Chukwu Ukeh – Tim Musara; Uzo Anukam

Subs – Abdul Bangura; Kelechi Abanobi; Femi Padonu; Chris Nwaeze

Goals – None [ CAUTIONS – None ]

 
JUNE 22, 2008

Anukam scores twice again; Eastern United beats Raccah Rovers, 3-2

 
Uzo Anukam is already in a habit of scoring goals as he now sits alone as the NSL record holder for goals in a season with 11 goals following another impressive performance for Eastern United as they beat Raccah Rovers, 3-2 in an exciting match. The high flying Eastern United increased their league leading tally to 18 goals on the season and lead the difficult Conference-B with 13 points. Raccah Rovers actually opened the scoring in the 6th minute when Francis Molokwu slammed home the ball off a throw in for the early 1-0 advantage. The lead lasted only two minutes as Anukam set the NSL scoring record during a goal mouth scramble to tie the game at 1-1. Richard Hutchinson gave Eastern the lead for good in the 16th minute when he beat the offside trap and wrong footed the goalkeeper. Anukam then added his second goal and extended his scoring record in the 29th minute with probably his easiest goal following a goalkeeper error, giving Eastern a 3-1 lead which they took into the half. Anukam missed a golden chance to become the first player to record two hat tricks in a season in the 57th minute when he ballooned a sitter over the bar after Raccah’s Lato Achikeh cleared the ball off the goal line. Raccah’s skipper, Johnny Sessay pulled one back in the 71st minute off a beautiful assist from Andy Ojinnaka, narrowing the deficit at 3-2. Both teams went back and forth but neither team was able to ruffle the net ending an exhilarating contest.

 
EASTERN UNITED: Ibekwe Anya – Chidi Onyewu; Darryl Womack; Segun Owolabi; Abdul Tunis – Abdul Bangura (cpt); Tim Musara; Chris Nwaeze; Paul Okhumale – Richard Hutchinson; Uzo Anukam

Subs – Aham Onyike; Kelechi Abanobi [ CAUTIONS – None ]

Goals – Uzo Anukam (8, 29); Richard Hutchinson (16)

RACCAH ROVERS: Hank Okoro – Taiye Akinmboni; Lato Achikeh; Kingsley Bonsu; Tunde Banjo – Andy Ojinnaka; Abbey Eldred; Johnny Sessay (cpt); Donald Igwebuike; Bidemi Abiola – Gbenga Adeyokunnu

Subs – Shola Adekanye; Nonso Iweanoge; Taiye Akinmboni (GK) [ CAUTIONS – Bidemi Abiola; Kingsley Bonsu ]

Goals – Francis Molokwu (6); Johnny Sessay (71)

Enyimba puts one in the books; Pounds Vasco Da Gama, 3-0


Ben Iwuchukwu opened his 2008 scoring account in grand style with two second half strikes to give Enyimba FC their biggest victory margin ever in a 3-0 win over struggling Vasco Da Gama. Enyimba in search of a much needed win blazed forward and seized the day as they controlled the game on all facets from the beginning to the end of the contest. In the process, they avenged their defeat at the hands of Vasco in last seasons NSL Championship quarterfinals. Enyimba’s Ricardo Jarrett opened the scoring in the 13th minute during a goal mouth scramble for the 1-0 lead, which they never relinquished. As a matter of fact, Enyimba goalkeeper, Kevin Wong, was barely called into duty the entire day as Vasco was credited with only two shots on goal for the whole game. Enyimba’s midfield and defense was impressive in stuffing Vasco’s vaunted counter attacks with stifling offside traps and well timed, punishing tackles. Enyimba should have increased their tally in the 22nd minute but Nixon Dimkpa’s powerful header hit the cross bar following a corner kick. Iwuchukwu sent a warning shot in the 30th minute when he miss hit a volley that should have been destined for the back of the net. However, he made up for it in the second half in the 68th minute with a header off a corner kick and to cap the game in the 89th minute when he intercepted the ball at midfield, beat two defenders and rattled the net to end the game, 3-0. Vasco is now in the midst of a two game losing streak and a two game scoreless drought.