By Ahmad Elnafaty
Chijioke Alaekwe and Ahmed Jimoh’s goals secured an entertaining win in Mohammed Baba Ganaru’s first home game of the season in charge of Gombe United who overcame Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enyimba 2-0 at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe on Sunday.
Alaekwe struck first for Gombe United before substitute Jimoh fired home a delightful free-kick to give Gombe United a thrilling 2-0 win over Enyimba.
The opener came 43 minutes into the first half when Amaechi Orji’s cross found Alaekwe who had the easy job of freely heading in the ball into the back of the net.
Gombe United goalkeeper Itodo Akor earned his first clean sheet this season with stunning stops in both halves, denying Daniel Daga and then Joseph Atule. The first half had been largely dominated by the visitors.
There was a roar of appreciation from the home fans when Jimoh scored a late superb free-kick to rub salt into Enyimba’s wounds.
Baba Ganaru believes that his team are still a work in progress despite seeing off the champions.
“We have still got a long way to go and today we saw elements of how far we still have to go,” Baba Ganaru said afterwards, refusing to get carried away.
“If we can keep feeding the players the belief that they had in the second half then we can create something special.”
As for Enyimba FC, this is their first match of their title defence. They had their moments but the excitement, momentum and points went to Baba Ganaru’s side.
Enyimba will look back on a string of chances they should have taken to turn the game their way and rue the missed opportunities.
What is next?
Gombe United’s next game is away to Shooting Stars on Wednesday, October 11 at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
On the other hand, Enyimba are next in action on Wednesday when they host Akwa United this midweek at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.