A&A Kiviasennus, a football academy came close to pulling an upset Saturday in a high profile friendly versus NPFL side, Sporting Lagos of Lagos at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.

A&A Kiviasennus, a Nationwide League One side, NLO, held out strongly in the contest but former Nigeria international, Junior Lokosa, propelled the newly promoted NPFL side to win 2-1 in the friendly.

Sporting Lagos went in front in the first period but A&A came back strongly in the second period to draw level through obvious man of the match, Julius Okechukwu.

The game looked headed for a draw until the third minute of the added time when Sporting Lagos found the winner.

Before then, there was a twist of fortune as Sporting Lagos officials fell in love with A&A's Julius Okechukwu and asked for him to play on their side so they can observe him more.

"Okechukwu pulled off our shirt and was given Sporting Lagos jersey and he now played for them", confirms A&A coach, Lotanna Ifejiofor, a former Gabros International of Nnewi ace.

"Okechukwu turned out to be the provider of Sporting Lagos' winning goal when he bust from the flanks late into the added time.

"His pull-out caused a melee in our area that eventually led to their winning goal".

Coach Ifejiofor would hold his head high after the game, saying his players showed character.

"It was a strong game and we gave a good account of ourselves", he added.

A&A featured in the recently concluded NLO Playoff in Awka, Anambra State. Newly formed Coal City United FC emerged winners in the Playoff before going ahead to pick the NNL qualification slot.