Ekiti United Keep Home Fortress Intact with Win Over Abakaliki FC
Ekiti United FC extended their unbeaten home streak with a hard-fought 1–0 victory against Abakaliki FC at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti, buoyed by a large turnout of fans and massive local support.
The match opened with a minute of silence in honour of the late NFRA President, Alhaji Aliyu Zubairu. From kickoff, the home side dominated possession and tested Abakaliki’s defence, with the crowd’s energy pushing the players to maintain intensity. The visitors’ goalkeeper made several important saves in the opening stages, keeping the scoreline level.
Abakaliki threatened intermittently on the break, but Ekiti United goalkeeper Wale Makanjuola produced crucial interventions to deny them.
The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Damilola Adeyeye was fouled inside the box. Ayodeji Lawal stepped up and calmly converted the resulting penalty, giving the hosts a 1–0 lead heading into halftime.
In the second half, both sides pressed for goals, but Ekiti United’s defensive discipline, combined with Makanjuola’s continued heroics, preserved the lead. His performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
Lawal said he was delighted to score the winning goal, highlighting the importance of composure under pressure. Head coach Bolarinwa Idris praised his players’ resilience and discipline, noting the tough nature of the encounter.
The win also underscores the role of fan support at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium and the backing of the state government under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Technical Advisor on Sports Development Olusola Osetoba, whose commitment to the team has helped sustain their strong home performances.
Ekiti United currently sit 4th on the NNL Conference B table, four points behind league leaders Akwa United FC, making the upcoming clash against the same side on Sunday, March 29, an important opportunity to close the gap.
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