MFM beat ABS FC 2-1 to close the gap on Plateau

Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries FC claimed a 2-1 win over Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) FC to close the gap on Nigeria Professional Football League League (NPFL) leaders, Plateau United on Sunday at the Soccer Temple, Agege Stadium.

The Matchday 27 fixture of the Nigerian top league between the Olukoya Boys and the visitors lived up to expectations as both teams entertained their fans with sleek style of football.

MFM FC began the lively encounter on a high. Teenage midfielder Akanni Elijah made the first meaningful impact of the game in the 12th minute of when he latched on to a pass from Tchato Giscard but his effort went a bit high.

Three minutes after his first attempt on goal, Akanni set Ogunye Austine up with a pass after a well worked counter but the latter’s goal was ruled for offside.

The 17th minute of the exchange witnessed a defining moment for the home team. NPFL leading scorer, Stephen Odey was brought down inside the visitors' box and the centre referee had no other option than to point to the spot. Ogunye stepped forward and put the ball inside the net. First half ended with the hosts maintaining a one-goal lead.

The Ilorin-based team came out determined in the second half and threatened the hosts defence but stand-in captain Opara Austine and Bashiru Monsuru gave good account of themselves with smart defensive play.

Mohammed Mohammed of ABS had a chance to put the proceedings on level terms in the 51st minute when he connected a pass from Ugbo Emmanuel but his effort couldn’t beat MFM FC goalkeeper Folarin Abayomi.

Onuwa Chukwuka came in for teenage midfielder Akanni and the petite midfielder changed the course of the game with his passing and dribbling skills.

Onuwa initiated a move in the 72nd minute of the entertaining encounter from the middle of the park when he picked out Ogunye with a great pass, the forward dribbled past his marker and then sent in a low cross to Olatunbosun Sikiru and the winger finished the counter with a nice tap in.

With two minutes to end the game, Saraki Boys caught MFM FC's defence napping after stringing passes together and substitute Wasiu Alalade's effort from an impossible angle beat Folarin Abayomi.

The Olukoya Boys secured the maximum points to take their total earnings in the ongoing NPFL season to 46 thereby closing the gap on Plateau United who are sitting in the first position on the log with 48 points.