Enyimba International Football Club of Aba, Abia State on Sunday in Ibadan, Oyo State forced hosts, Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, to a goalless draw in a tension-soaked match.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the match, which attracted the usual large turnout, was nearly marred by angry fans but for the intervention of security agents.
Some of the angry fans told NAN that their grievance was against the officiating, which they said was not balanced.
NAN reports that the absence of 3SC forward, Junior Ajayi, who was reported to have resumed at the Dream Team VI camp, was however highly felt by the home side.
3SC have played three matches under Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, securing a win and two draws in the matches.
Speaking on the situation, Ogunbote described the result as an improvement for the club, adding that they would continue to improve on their performance until they could attain a better status.
He said: “We are a big team and we have proved that.
“We gave our best and everybody can also see the improvement in the team’s performance.
“I can assure that we will continue to improve on this.”
Ogunbote, when asked to comment on the match’s officiating, however. said: “It is not in my character to comment on officiating.
“But I can give my opinion after watching the match’s video clips.”
On his part, coach Kadiri Ikhana of Enyimba commended his team for getting at least a draw in Ibadan.
Ikhana said: “It is not easy to secure such against a big team like the 3SC.”
He promised that his team would improve on its performance in its remaining matches to place it at the desired and well-deserved height.
NAN.