Heartland FC began their NPFL Youth Championship Group B campaign with a 2-2 draw against Bayelsa United on Monday at the Ginger Stadium, Isiala Ngwa, Abia State.
The Owerri side drew first blood in the 23rd minute through Chinedu Theophilus Chinonso, whose composed finish put the Naze Millionaires in front. Bayelsa United responded in the 36th minute when Stanley Idom Amom slotted home to restore parity.
Amom completed his brace in the 65th minute from the penalty spot, giving the Yenagoa side the lead for the first time in the encounter. Heartland, however, showed resilience, with Onyeaghala Melody Chigaemezu striking in the 69th minute to level the scores once again.
Speaking after the match, Heartland coach Emeka Okoronkwo Taribo acknowledged the need for improvement in front of goal.
“I will go back to my drawing board to work on the chances we missed in the game and to correct it ahead of the next encounter,” he said.
Heartland will now turn their attention to their second group match against Abia Warriors, who lost 3-2 to Akwa Select. The tie is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 14, at the same venue.
