MATCH REPORT
Shooting Stars SC 3–2 Nasarawa United
We delivered a thrilling performance to edge Nasarawa United 3–2 in a five-goal encounter, showing resilience and attacking quality to secure all three points at home.
First Half
We made a dream start, taking the lead in just the 4th minute. Ayodele Ismail delivered a pinpoint cross that found Lucky Emmanuel, whose header broke the deadlock to make it 1–0.
Momentum stayed with us, and after sustained pressure, including a free kick won by Ismail in the 8th minute and a defensive clearance from Desmond Ojietefian—we doubled our advantage in the 24th minute. A well-delivered corner from Ayobami Junior was met again by Lucky Emmanuel, who powered home his second header of the game to make it 2–0.
We remained in control for much of the half, although Sodiq Ibrahim missed a chance earlier in the 15th minute. The visitors, however, pulled one back in the 41st minute to reduce the deficit to 2–1.
After three minutes of added time, we went into the break with a narrow lead.
Second Half
We made a change at the start of the second half, introducing Qamar Adegoke. The game remained competitive, with Tijani Al-Ameen producing solid defensive work in the 51st minute.
Nasarawa United found their equaliser in the 54th minute, capitalising on an error to make it 2–2 and set up a tense finish.
Decisive Moment
We had a golden opportunity to restore the lead in the 62nd minute when we were awarded a penalty, but Qamar Adegoke was unable to convert.
We continued to push forward, with Ayodele Ismail briefly receiving medical attention in the 69th minute, while Justice Apaingolo made an important defensive block in the 72nd minute.
Further changes followed in the 75th minute, with Tunde Azeez and Alade Balogun introduced.
The breakthrough finally came in the 77th minute. A well-worked move saw Ayobami Junior set up Qamar Adegoke, who made no mistake this time, firing home to restore our lead at 3–2.
Full-Time
Late substitutions in the 88th minute saw Adebayo Abayomi and Adelowo Gbolagade introduced as we looked to see out the game.
After three minutes of added time, the referee brought the game to an end, confirming a hard-fought victory.
It was a spirited performance, as we showed resilience to overcome setbacks and claim a crucial win in front of our home supporters.
Attention now turns to the next fixture, as we prepare for another home game against Barau FC.
