Gold Cup: 3SC Labours To Final

Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side newcomers Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan beat Kogi United 4-3 on penalties after they laboured  to register a goal  during the regular period yesterday at the Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode in a pre-season tournament tagged Gold Cup.

The Nigeria National League (NNL) campaigner Kogi United broke the deadlock after 25 minutes of play through their influential midfielder, Destiny Ashadi who was a delight to watch in the encounter.

3SC goalkeeper Kola Ige was the hero of the day as he made great saves which could have resulted into goals for the Wada Boys.

Shortly after the goal the Oluyole Warriors mounted pressure to get an equaliser but Kogi United rose to the occasion and defended so well and at the same time suppressed the pressure from the newly promoted 3SC.

The first 45 minutes ended with the Kogi based team taking a goal advantage into the second half.

Okiki Afolabi drew level for for Shooting after 15 minutes into the second half when he dribbled pass two defenders then pulled the trigger and put his team back into the game.

Kogi United came close to scoring the second goal but Kola rescued 3SC with another super save.

It was a keenly contested game for Shooting Stars and Kogi United,  fans enjoyed the showpiece as the two sides lived up to expectations.

The two teams went straight into penalty shoot out after 90 minutes of play but it was 3SC who carried the day as goal tender Kola Ige saved two spot kicks and handed the final ticket to his team mates.

Other game between Sharks Football Club and Supreme Court ended one nill with the Blue Angels winning that one, Ifeanyi Inyam netted for the Port Harcourt based team after five minutes of play.

Gbenga Ogunbote's men will be playing against 3SC tomorrow (Friday) at the Dipo Dina Township Stadium.