FC Ifeanyi Ubah on Wednesday returned to winning ways when it defeated league leaders Rangers International 2-0, courtesy of goals by Alberico Da Silva and Chijioke Alakwe at the Ifeanyi Ubah International Stadium, Nnewi.
Coach Rafael Everton made four changes to his starting line up with Elu Wilson, Alberico Da Silva, Ismaila Gata and Ezenwa Ikechukwu all starting and it was no surprise that the Anambra Warriors we on the attack from the start. This resulted to a free kick in the 6th minute just outside the 18 yard box after Alberico Da Silva was fouled by Obinna Nwobodo.
Alberico scored from the resulting free kick after his shot was deflected pass the Rangers keeper to send the crowd into ecstasy.
The emblematic midfielder has now played a part in 4 of the last 5 FC Ifeanyi Ubah goals in all competitions.
The Anambra Warriors continued attacking after taking the lead and were in full control of the midfield with Tamen Medrano leading from midfield. The Cameroonian midfield had a wonderful games, barely miscuing a pass and his elegance and finesse in the middle of the park was awesome.
In the 34th minute, Tamen placed an inch perfect through pass to Seka Pascal on the right hand side who on his part square played the ball across the goal but unfortunately Ismaila Gata was slightly late to tap in the ball into the net.
This was followed by many chances but it ended 1-0 at the break with Rangers International very lucky to have gone into the break only a goal done.
The second half started with a substitution from FC Ifeanyi Ubah, with Ismaila Gata making way for Chijioke Alakwe who was making his home debut and second appearance for the club after making his debut in the 2-0 defeat to Plateau United.
This substitution from coach Rafael Everton proved to be a masterclass move from the gaffer, as minutes later (55th to be precise) the striker scored the second goal after Seka Pascal fought off tough tackles from three Rangers defenders before delivering a low cross across goal.
Chijioke made no mistake in scoring hence sending the fans into wild celebrations.
Seka Pascal was a threat upfront all through the game. The Ivorian once again put in a good shift, running tirelessly, contesting every ball upfront and also creating chances and also drawing fouls, winning free kicks for the team.
In the 77th minute, Seka was fouled around the penalty box and the resulting free kick almost brought about a goal. Bright Onyedikachi narrowly headed wide after Elu Wilson delivered a good delivery.
Bright almost scored in injury time when he was put through by Tamen Medrano, but unfortunately his effort was well saved by the Rangers goalkeeper.
In the ended 2-0 for FC Ifeanyi Ubah in what can be described as a well deserved win for the Anambra Warriors. A win that takes them to sixth on the table, five points behind Rangers.
Reactions:
Elu Wilson (captain)
We are very happy to win this match, we feel great, defeating the league leaders and rivals is something special.
We the defenders spoke to ourselves sometime ago and decided to up our game and its paying because we are now getting clean sheets and we thank God for another one today.
Rafael Everton
Today we played very good football and I am very happy we won today’s match.
I am very impressed with Chijioke today, we always try to encourage our players especially those that have not been getting enough game time and am happy that he is improving and today we saw that he is a very good player.
Chuma Ubah
Am very happy with the team today, not only for the result but the quality of play, the ten days break paid off, we trained better and am happy we carried the day.
I appreciate the fans and their support today, we will continue to make them proud.
What next:
Up next for FC Ifeanyi Ubah is a trip to Warri on Sunday where they will take on last season’s runner up Warri Wolves. It should be a fascinating encounter.
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