In a thrilling Ikeja Divisional Super League clash, Unification FC displayed grit, determination and tactical brilliance to fight back from two goals down and secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Ace Mariners FC.
Speaking exclusively to Awijare News after the game, Unification FC’s Director, Oyekan Oluwatobi, commended his players for their fighting spirit and resilience under pressure.
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“Coming from two goals behind and levelling up in this kind of situation is something that must be commended. We are in what I would call a ‘group of death’ where every single point matters, so earning this draw keeps us in the contest,” he said.
The match was a story of two halves. Ace Mariners FC dominated early and took a comfortable 2-0 lead before the break. However, Unification FC came alive in the second half, making key substitutions that completely changed the flow of the game.
Oluwatobi explained that several players were making their league debuts, which affected communication and understanding on the pitch in the first half.
“Football is about communication. Some players were just introduced today and needed time to settle. Once we brought in fresh legs with the right experience, we gained control and dictated the game,” he noted.
The turning point came when Ace Mariners FC were reduced to ten men after a red card. While Ace Mariners’ coach suggested the sending-off gave Unification FC an advantage, Oluwatobi firmly disagreed.
“The red card was a result of our quality and intensity. Even if they had kept all their players, we would still have outplayed them. In fact, the same thing happened in the first leg, and we went on to win,” he argued.
With just four games remaining, Unification FC still have an uphill task in their bid to reach the Super Four stage of the league. But the director remains optimistic.
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“We have a mountain to climb, but the lifeline is still there. If we can take maximum points from our remaining matches, we can make it. I urge our fans to keep believing in us,” Oluwatobi concluded.
The result means Unification FC remain in contention in their tightly contested group, and with performances like this, their Super Four dream is far from over.
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