Babatunde, Akpesiri shoot down Stars as Akwa United return to winning ways
By Mfon Patrick
A goal in each half by midfielder Bello Babatunde and striker Naibe Akpesiri propelled the reigning NPFL champions Akwa United to a 2-1 win over visiting Shooting Stars Sport Club of Ibadan on match-day 22 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday afternoon.
The Promise Keepers took the lead in the 15th minute of the game when Bello Babatunde’s thunderous strike from outside the box was too strong for goalkeeper Ogundare Detan to keep out.
The hosts doubled their lead in the 69th minute of the second half through striker Naibe Akpesiri who tapped home a lovely low cross by Seth Mayi into the back of the net.
The visitors from Ibadan fought back but could only pull a goal back through Chidera Eze but Akwa United held on to record their first win in six matches, which was coach Ayodeji Ayeni’s first victory in three games since joining the club in mid-season.
Babatunde and Akpesiri introduced themselves to Akwa United fans with their goals on match-day 22 and the victory move the champions up to 8th on the log with 32 points from 22 games.
The result means that Akwa United have maintain their dominance over Shooting Stars, a team they have defeated in each of their last six visits to Uyo.
The Promise Keepers will next square up against Gombe United on match-day 23 on Sunday 17th April, 2022 at the Pantami Stadium.
