Each half goal from Alex Ayowah and Emmanuel Ambakederemor gave Aiteo Cup Champions, Bayelsa United a 2-1 victory over Fc One Rocket of Uyo in a match day four fixture of the Nigeria National League, NNL at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
Coach Diepreye Teibowei made four changes from last weekend tie against neighbors Warri Wolves with Timitimi Ineikade and Christopher Kenneth making their first start of the season.
Midfielder Alex Ayowah gave the host the lead on 41 minutes when Fc One Rocket goalkeeper Christian Nwoke failed to clear the ball off the his danger territory having failed to take the lead on 25 minute from Philp Bob who fired wide.
Apparently not satisfied with the performance of the team in the first half, technical adviser of Bayelsa United Teibowei made four substitutions with the introduction of Uchenna Akoma, Alabo Abule, Clark Fabby and new boy Emmanuel Ambakederemor as it almost paid off on 80 minute when diminutive midfielder Uchenna Akoma’s cross went agonizingly close to almost double the lead for Prosperity Boys.
Few minutes later the visitors responded with a quick counter attack between Abel Abbah and Kuku Kingsley was cut short by Bayelsa United goaltender John Shaibu, the host replied immediately from a beautiful build up play as Clarke Fabby find Emmanuel Ambakederemor who tapped home on 84 minute to seal the victory for the home team.
Just before the final whistle former Bayelsa United, forward Israel Consul reduced the deficit for Fc One Rocket on 90 minute.
The win is the first Bayelsa United victory of the season after three games with a game at hand against Cynosure Fc of Ebonyi State, one loss, one draw and a win.
The Prosperity Boys will travel to Asaba to face Apex Krane at the Stephen Keshi Stadium while Fc One Rocket will be at home to Calabar Rovers at the Next of Champions pitch.
Bayelsa United, technical adviser Teibowei in a post match interview said he was pleased with the three point, pointing out that both side gave their best.
He explained that it is work in progress for his team after the assemblage of new players at the end of last season .
Fc One Rocket coach Emmanuel King asserted that he was proud of his lads despite the defeat, stating that his team was improving every game.
Goal scorer Ambakederemor applauded the players, technical crew and fans for their undiminished support, saying that his dream was to see the team play in NPFL at the end of the season.
He added that the performance of the team has demonstrated that the Prosperity Boys can defend the Aiteo Cup.
