Osun Babes Get Second NWPL Win, Beat Delta Queens 3-1
Delta Queens succumbed to their first defeat in four matches as Osun Babes took full advantage of the Okowa Ladies defensive lapses at the Osogbo City Stadium.
A double from Sapele born striker Precious Edewor, and another from Warri born winger Kesiena Ojiywuv sealed the three points for the hosts, who got their second victory in the ongoing Nigerian Women Premier League.
In a frantic start to the game, Osun Babes threatened first, Rejoice Ikoyo’s instinctive low shot went over Rita Akarekor, the Delta Queens goalkeeper, but missed getting into the net by few inches, as a defensive pair of Maria Nwoko and Joy Jegede looked on helplessly.
On the 27th minute, the Omoluabi Queens took the lead. Precious Edewor found space from a tight angle to slot in the ball beyond the reach of goalkeeper Akarekor.
It didn’t last long though, the former league champions responded from captain Joy Jegede’s 37th-minute free kick after Iloduba Sarah had brought down Emueje Oghiagbevia just at the edge of the 18-yard box.
Edewor almost turned provider with the scores at 1-1 when she found a free Rejoice Ikoyo, but the winger saw her attempt go just wide of the post to the despair of the home fans.
Delta Queens looked dangerous when going forward. Returnee Emueje Oghiagbevia and petit forward Maryann Ezeanagu were a constant threat throughout the first half, and the latter was next to test Jiwaikwu, forcing a brilliant save from the goalkeeper with her powerful shot.
The first half, however, ended 1-1 as the two teams really showed class and entertained the fans at the stadium.
After the break, Osun Babes took the initiative to again take the game to the Kwale based side. Ossai Esther gave a sumptuous delivery to in-form Edewor from the right wing and she dribbled past Nwoko and squared the ball to Kemi Abiodun, who headed wide.
Luck, however, smiled on Osun Babes. Kesiena Ojiywvui was well positioned to take advantage of a loose ball from Rejoice Ikoyo’s threat upfront. The skilful player wasted no time to take a low volley to make it 2-1 for the home team just in the 53rd minute of play.
The goal, however, happened to be her last involvement in the game as Marcus Grace was brought on to replace her.
The former COD Ladies winger quickly got into action after the substitution, as she gave a pass to Rejoice Ikoyo who quickly cut inside, before unleashing a powerful drive which hit the edge of the lower bar.
Precious Edewor finally made it 3-1 and sealed the three points for Osun Babes in the 67th minute when she scored from the spot after Rejoice Ikoyo was recklessly manhandled inside the 18-yard box by Delta Queens defenders.
Osun Babes still remain on the 6th position with seven points. They will now face Sa’adatu Kolo Amazons in their last game of the first round in Minna, next week Wednesday.
