Akwa United earned a crucial 2-0 victory over Heartland FC in a dramatic NPFL clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Goals from Endurance Ebedebiri and Chijioke Alaekwe helped the Promise Keepers climb off the bottom of the league table and move up to 17th place with 19 points, while Heartland remained in 13th place with 21 points.
In the 24th minute, Akwa’s David Phillip unleashed a powerful half-volley from outside the box, but Heartland goalkeeper Ebuka Nwokeocha was equal to the task, diving low to claim the shot comfortably.
Just moments later, Akwa’s Apollos Friday found himself in a promising position inside the box, but Nwokeocha was again alert, blocking the striker’s attempt from just 10 yards.
However, in the 32nd minute, Akwa United were awarded a penalty after a reckless challenge from Nwokeocha on Kabir Osoba, who was brought down inside the penalty area.
The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, and Endurance Ebedebiri stepped up to convert with cool precision, sending Nwokeocha the wrong way to give Akwa United a 1-0 lead.
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David Phillip delivered a pinpoint corner kick into the box, and Chijioke Alaekwe rose highest to head the ball home, doubling Akwa’s lead in the 68th minute.
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Despite a late rally from Heartland, Akwa United were resolute and maintained their lead until the final whistle. The victory was a much-needed boost for the team, lifting them to 17th place and giving them hope of avoiding relegation in what has been a difficult season.
The Naze Millionaires remain in 13th place, just six points ahead of Akwa United, and will need to improve if they are to move up the table in the second half of the season.
