By Christopher Clinton_

Abia Warriors Football Club secured a hard-fought victory over Warri Wolves on Matchday 18 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Umuahia Township Stadium yesterday.

 

The narrow win did not come easy for the home side, as Warri Wolves put up a resilient performance that tested Abia Warriors throughout the encounter. Despite enjoying home advantage, the Umuahia-based club struggled to impose themselves, especially in attack.

 

Speaking to journalists after the match, Abia Warriors Technical Adviser, Imama Amapakabo, admitted that his team labored for the result and described the performance as a recurring “trend” among his players.

 

According to the coach, while his side managed to grind out the victory, it was concerning that they had to struggle so much at home to secure maximum points. He noted that Warri Wolves came with a well-organized counter-attacking approach, which caused problems for his team.

 

Coach Amapakabo revealed that he had warned his players about conceding possession cheaply, as it would expose them to counterattacks. However, he acknowledged that Abia Warriors were poor offensively, a weakness that allowed Warri Wolves to launch several dangerous breaks during the game.

 

The home side lost possession frequently and failed to convert key chances, prompting the coaching crew to make tactical adjustments in the course of the match. These changes, according to Amapakabo, were aimed at enforcing his football philosophy and improving the team’s overall balance.

 

Relief finally came for Abia Warriors in the dying minutes when Sunday Megwo calmly converted a penalty to seal the victory, sending the home fans into celebration.

 

The win keeps Abia Warriors competitive on the NPFL table as they look to improve consistency in the second half of the season, while Warri Wolves will take positives from a spirited performance despite the narrow defeat.