A sensational strike from Sheddy Kenneth secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Abia Warriors over Bayelsa United in their Matchday 19 clash at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.

The victory was sweet redemption for the visitors, who had drawn 2-2 in their last visit to the same venue despite squandering a two-goal lead. This time, they maintained their first-half advantage until the final whistle.

Abia Warriors coach, Imama Amapakabo, made just one change to the lineup that triumphed over Ikorodu City FC in their previous match, bringing in Sheddy Kenneth for Sunday Megwo, who was on national duty.

The game began cautiously, with both sides probing for openings. However, the Warriors’ attacking duo of Anthony Ijoma and Sheddy Kenneth soon began to stretch the Bayelsa United defense with their incisive runs.

In the 11th minute, Paul Samson missed a golden opportunity to put Abia Warriors ahead after a swift counterattack, but the visitors wouldn’t be denied for long.

In the 35th minute, Sheddy Kenneth broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance. A well-coordinated counterattack saw Ojomugwa Adejoh feed Ayodele Ezekiel, who delivered a pinpoint long pass to Anthony Ijoma. Ijoma’s deft one-touch pass found Kenneth, who skipped past his marker and unleashed a stunning 27-yard shot into the net, sending the Warriors’ fans into wild celebrations.

Bayelsa United made several substitutions and pushed relentlessly for an equalizer in the second half, but the Warriors’ defense stood firm. Despite the hosts’ dominance in possession, the visitors’ resolute defending ensured their slim lead remained intact until the final whistle.

The victory capped off a successful first half of the Nigeria Premier Football League season for Abia Warriors. With this result, Umu Chineke have set a solid foundation as they look to build on their performance in the second stanza of the competition.