Akwa United FC defeated First Bank FC 2-0 on Sunday, March 1, 2026, to prolong their lead at the highest of the NNL Conference B desk.
Akwa United had earlier overwhelmed First Bank 3-1 away in Lagos within the reverse fixture, finishing the double with this newest victory.
The house facet began strongly at the Uyo Township Stadium. Within the fifth minute, Emmanuel Charles managed the ball nicely contained in the field however his weak shot was saved by the goalkeeper. Nsikak Raphael additionally tried his luck from outdoors the world within the tenth minute, however his effort was blocked by a defender.
Paulinus Okon led a number of assaults within the first half, combining nicely with Daniel Gothom and Aniebiet Sunday, however couldn’t discover the ultimate contact. Emmanuel Charles got here shut in first-half stoppage time, however his shot went simply vast. The primary half ended goalless.
Akwa United returned after the break with extra objective. Aniebiet Sunday and Emmanuel Charles each missed good possibilities earlier than the breakthrough lastly arrived within the 63rd minute. Yannick Menegbe delivered a high quality cross into the field and Paulinus Okon rose highest to head the ball into the online.
Okon doubled the lead within the seventy fifth minute to full his brace and take his tally to 4 objectives this season. He virtually scored a 3rd purpose however his long-range effort missed the goal.
The win was Akwa United’s eighth of the season and moved them 4 factors clear at the highest of the NNL Conference B desk after 12 matches. They now have six matches left to play and can journey to face Osun United on matchday 13.
Talking after the match, Coach Paul Offor expressed his satisfaction with the staff’s efficiency. He stated:
“I’m pleased with the progress we’re making. Immediately’s win was not a late winner or a slim one-goal victory, which exhibits we’re bettering. We’re additionally growing methods to break down opponents who sit again and defend. Within the second half, we had been in a position to open them up, create extra space, and get our objectives.”
He added: “From this level ahead, each sport we play is a ultimate for us. We are going to method every match with this mentality. If we wish to safe promotion, we should be sure that after each matchday we stay on high of the league desk.”
On Paulinus Okon, the two-goal hero of the match, Offor stated:
“Paulinus is an excellent participant. Even together with his ability on the ball, he nonetheless has the power to cowl the bottom and assist the staff. We’re very blissful together with his efficiency this season. Each time he’s on the sector, we all know one thing particular can occur, which is why we strive to hold him taking part in so long as doable. His First Class diploma exhibits he’s hardworking, and that dedication exhibits in his sport.”
Offor additionally confirmed the absence of striker Michael Okenwa, explaining:
“Michael was launched to attend his mom’s funeral. He’ll return to the squad on Monday.”
He praised the followers for his or her assist, saying:
“We love our supporters. We all the time give our greatest to carry out nicely for them, and we encourage them to hold popping out to push us so we will obtain our goal collectively.”
Paulinus Okon was named Man of the Match and acquired his award at full time from Ibom Air officers at the stadium.
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