By Hananeel Jackson
The sun failed to shine in Yenagoa as host Bayelsa United beat Sunshine Stars of Akure 2-1 in matchday sixteen fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League decided at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
Experienced technical adviser of Bayelsa United, Diepreye Teibowei made two changes from the starting eleven against Lobi Stars and Doma United of Gombe with Loveday Saro coming in for Captain Gabriel Biriduba and Taiwo Abdulrafiu for Yazid Adamu.
The Prosperity Boys took the lead on 61 minute from midfielder Edwin Ayiba’s well placed effort and a Robert Mizo well delivery that immediately responded in less than a minute from Achi Nnaemeka deflected shot.
Despite the soggy nature of the pitch the host did not relent in their pursuit for three points as they continued to put pressure on the Akure based side defence line but the Owena waves defence line was solid.
Apparently not pleased with the scoreline and the performance of the players, coach Diepreye introduced Fabby Clark for Okorie Ekeson and Eric Dufegha came in for Alex Jerry but Edith Agoye side were able to absorb the pressure.
When it seems the game was going to end 1-1 Coach Diepreye Teibowei pulled off newly introduced Eric Dufegha for experienced Gomo Onduku who headed home Loveday Saro’s cross on 89 minute to give Bayelsa United the victory, a goal that sent fans in raptures celebration.
The victory leaves Bayelsa United on 6th place with 21 points same with Sunshine Stars who have a game at hand while Enugu Rangers, Dakkada Fc and Wikki Tourist occupied 8th to 10th.
A relieved technical adviser of Bayelsa United, Diepreye Teibowei, said the victory has defined the season for the Prosperity Boys despite the tension, saying that both sides gave their best.
Sunshine Stars technical adviser, Edith Agoye attributed the defeat to the rain that the weather did not allow the free flow of the ball describing the result as unfortunate.
He noted that he is hopeful of a super six place at the end of Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL.