The match began with both teams showing intent, but Ughelli Rovers quickly established control over the midfield, dictating the pace of the game. Sapphire FC tried to hold their defensive shape but struggled to contain the fluid movement of Warriors’ overpowering attacks. As the half progressed, Sapphire’s defense began to falter under pressure.
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when a well-timed through ball split the Sapphire defense, allowing a Udori Great’s composed finish into the top roof. Just before halftime, Erukoghene Brume doubled the lead in the 45th minute with a clinical header from a corner kick. The two quick-fire goals left Sapphire FC reeling as they headed into the break.
Despite efforts from Sapphire FC to get back into the game, the Warriors maintained high-defensive discipline while continuing to threaten on the counter-attack. The final nail in the coffin came midway through the second half when Ovwigho Abednego capitalized on a defensive error to score the third goal in the 55th minute, sealing the 3-0 victory.
Sapphire FC struggled to muster any meaningful response as the Rovers’ defense remained solid throughout the match. Their attempts to push forward were continually thwarted, and Warriors’ well-organized backline ensured that a clean sheet remained intact.
Commenting on the resounding victory at full-time, Coach Ekete Nyerovwo laud the boys’ showiness of strength with a commanding performance, controlling the game and taking advantage of key moments to secure a convincing win.
“Our defense faltered at crucial times, particularly early in the first half, allowing the opponents to take slight control of the match at some point. The win will certainly boost the team’s confidence as we continue with this momentum, while we will need to regroup and address our defensive lapses moving forward.”
