Bayelsa United Feeders on Tuesday maintained their perfect start to the ongoing Nationwide League One (NLO) U-19 Youth League with a 3-1 victory over Bayelsa Starlets Academy at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
The Matchday 2 encounter saw Ibomo Kenus open scoring for Feeders in the 7th minute with a fine finish. Kenus doubled the lead in the 23rd minute after connecting well to a cross to make it 2-0.
Despite trailing, Starlets dominated possession and pressed for a response, but their attacking duo of Christopher James and Micah Kilete were kept at bay by Feeders’ defensive pair of Pina and Prince.
In a bid to turn the game around, Starlets introduced Ibuama Tengi and Simple Wisdom after the break. The substitutions brought stability to the midfield, but Feeders goalkeeper, Akpos Emmanuel, produced several saves to deny the Barcelona-affiliated academy side.
Olaowei Igbongidi extended Feeders’ advantage in the 56th minute from a Godbless Ayeke assist to make it 3-0.
Starlets pulled one back in the 81st minute through Christopher James, whose well-taken volley reduced the deficit, but they could not complete a comeback.
The result takes Bayelsa United Feeders to the top of the Yenagoa Centre with six points from two matches, while Starlets remain on three points.
Starlets will face Obago FC on Thursday at 12 noon, while United Feeders will take on Uchenna Kanu FA at 10 a.m., both at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
Reacting after the match, Starlets coach Freeborn Onome said his boys gave their best despite the defeat, adding that focus has shifted to their next game.
On his part, United Feeders coach Dimie Ineididie praised his players for their determination and said the team’s target is to finish top of the group.
