Akwa United‘s unbeaten run of form under coach Ayodeji Ayeni came to an end at the Muhammadu Dikko stadium on Sunday, as Destiny Ashadi’s second half strike earned hosts Katsina United a slim 1-0 victory over the reigning Champions on match-day 26 of the 2021/2022 Nigeria Professional Football League season.
The Promise Keepers were undefeated in six matches under coach Ayeni who took charge of the team in mid-season, but the defeat in Katsina saw the champions losing for the first time in seven matches as they drop from 5th to 6th position on the log with 39 points from 26 games.
Akwa United were looking for a repeat performance in Katsina after back-to back triumphs over Nasarawa United and Lobi Stars. However, after a scoreless first half, Destiny Ashadi’s goal in the 57th minute secured all three points for Katsina United.
Coach Ayodeji Ayeni said in his post match interview that numerous things led to his team’s setback, which he regarded as devastating.
“We came here hoping to get something out of this game, but a lot of circumstances conspired against us.”
After a two-day adventure on the road, my teammates were exhausted.
The weather on the day of the match was not cooperative, and we had to call two timeouts to allow the players to take a cooling (water) break.
Also read: Coach Ayeni Confident Of Good Outing In Katsina
“Overall, we faced a strong opponent, and I believe our effort was adequate; we simply failed to capitalize on our opportunities.
Katsina United won the game because they were able to capitalize on their opportunities.
We took some positives from the game and aim to build on them as we prepare for our next home game “..
On matchday 6, Akwa United won the first leg 2-0 in Uyo before losing 1-0 on Sunday.
On Sunday, May 8, 2022, they will host Enyimba International on Match-day 27 at the Nest of Champions.
