By Azeez Olaiya Lawal
Shooting Stars saved their best for last on Friday night, producing a thrilling late show to beat Bendel Insurance 2-1 in a Matchday 13 fixture of the EUROMATCHNPFL at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
In a game that looked destined for a goalless draw for over 80 minutes, three goals in the final stretch turned a cagey affair into one of the most dramatic finishes of this NPFL season so far.
Both sides started cautiously, fully aware of what was at stake. Shooting Stars, smarting from their Matchday 12 loss away to Barau FC, were keen to avoid another slip, while Bendel Insurance arrived in Ibadan knowing a win would keep the pressure firmly on leaders Rangers International.
Chances were few and far between in the first half. The midfield battle was intense, defences stayed compact, and neither goalkeeper was seriously tested. The Oluyole Warriors enjoyed more of the ball at home, but the Benin Arsenals held their shape well and frustrated the hosts.
The match finally came alive in the 84th minute. After a period of sustained Shooting Stars pressure, a loose ball fell kindly to Olakunle Akala just outside the box. Without hesitation, he unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew past the Insurance goalkeeper Adewale Adeyinka to send the home fans into wild celebration. One-nil to Shooting Stars.
Buoyed by the opener, the Ibadan side pushed for a second and got it in dramatic fashion. Early into stoppage time, in the 92nd minute, Qamar Adegoke finished off a swift attacking move to double the lead and seemingly seal all three points.
But Bendel Insurance refused to go down quietly. Almost from the restart, Alex Oweilayefa pulled one back late in added time to make it 2-1 and set up a frantic final few moment.
The visitors threw everything forward in search of a late equaliser, but Shooting Stars stood firm, defended their box with discipline, and held on for a massive home win.
Shooting Stars face a huge test next as they travel to Enugu to face league champions and leaders Rangers International on November 22.
Bendel Insurance will look to bounce back quickly as the title race continues to heat up.