AKWA UTD’S SIX-MATCH UNBEATEN RUN HALTED IN KATSINA

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.

After recording back-to-back victories against Nasarawa United and Lobi Stars, Akwa United were hoping for a another positive outing in Katsina, but after a goalless first half, Destiny Ashadi’s goal in the 57th minute secure all three points for Katsina United.

In his post match interview, coach Ayodeji Ayeni explained that many factors contributed to his team’s defeat and described it as painful.

“We came here with the intention of getting something out of this game but many things worked against us. My players were tired after enduring tedious two days journey on the road. The weather condition on the day of the match was not friendly at all, as we had to observe two stoppages for the players to have a cooling (water) break.

“On the whole, we played against a good side and I think our performance wasn’t bad, it’s only that we were unable to make good use of our chances. Katsina United won the match because they were able to convert the chance they had. We have taken some positives from the game and we hope to build on it as we look forward to our next game at home”.

Akwa United won the first leg 2-0 in Uyo on match-day 6, before losing 1-0 on Sunday.

They will next host Enyimba International on Match-day 27 at the Nest of Champions on Sunday 8th May, 2022.

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