The mid-season friendly encounter between NPFL table topping Lobi Stars of Makurdi and seven-time Nigerian league champions, Rangers International FC at the ‘Cathedral’, Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium, Enugu, ended in a 1-1 draw.
Rangers shot into the lead on 25 minutes when attacking sensation, Ifeanyi George ghosted his way past the backline of Lobi and his shot deflected off the foot of goalkeeper, John Lawrence and rested in the net to send smiles over the faces of the spectators that came to see the encounter.
Efforts by David Tyavkase, Ayo Saka and Austine Ogunye for the visitors to find a quick reply failed to yield any dividend as it was Rangers’ Yusuf Ibrahim that came close to extending the lead for the host but for some brilliant goalkeeping from John Lawrence.
Another chance to increase the lead fell for Chiamaka Madu on 58 minutes but he spunned his effort after Ifeanyi George had dribbled his way through a sea of tackling legs to set him up.
Five minutes later, Anthony Agbaji drew the Makurdi side level with a diving header after an inviting corner kick was missed by Rangers backline and goalkeeper, Nana Bonsu.
“It was a good game for both teams as we await the commencement of the remaining fourteen matches in the league. Despite the absence of some key players, we held our own and I believe that with hardwork and prayers, we shall be crowned champions of the league at the end of the season,” were the words of coach Solomon Ogbeide of Lobi Stars after the encounter.
For Rangers gaffer, coach Olugbenga Ogunbote, he said, “It was a good match but we had a careless moment and gave away our lead.”
