The Ikon Allah Boys earned a valuable point on the road, snatching a draw against Bayelsa United in the NPFL MatchDay 23 tie decided at the Southern Delta University Stadium in Ozoro.
It was a spirited performance built on collective and individual brilliance to earn a point against a highly determined Bayelsa United side, who were basking in the euphoria of their score draw against Barau FC in Kano.
Of course, it was no surprise when the hosts began the encounter by throwing everything into the early exchanges in search of a goal, but Tornadoes remained resolute and curtailed all the onslaught posed by the home team.
Goalkeeper Ifeanyi Nchekwube produced a superb and commanding performance between the sticks, aided by Sunday Akinmoladun, who also enjoyed a great afternoon as they prevented and stopped all intended incursions into our area.
The first forty-five minutes ended goalless, and both teams filed out for the second half determined to grab an early goal. The Ikon Allah Boys looked the brighter side, especially after the introductions of Ahmadu Liman, Rickson Mendos, Ani Chigozie, and later Joseph Godstime and Kufre Ebong, who added more bite to our tactical play, creating a myriad of chances but failing to convert any.
Godstime came closest to snatching a late winner when he found himself inside the box, but his effort flew disappointingly high before the referee signalled for the end of the game.
“Majin Mohammed gave kudos to the players and the club’s management for the travel arrangements, which he said aided in no small measure towards achieving the result.
”We had it in our minds that if Bayelsa United could go to Kano and get a point, we could also do the same. I saw the determination and the spirit the boys put up to get this result. We could have won it, but we’ll build on this momentum going forward.'”
“I’m particularly thankful to the management for securing the flight arrangement for this trip. Of course, there’s a clear difference between road trips and flight trips – it was smooth without any form of fatigue. We are, therefore, appealing for the continuity of this arrangement for longer journeys.”
