Plateau snatch away draw

A determined Plateau United side came from behind to snatch a precious point at Kwara United and ease pressure on gaffer, Ndubuisi Nduka.

It was the first time Nduka’s wards would share the points with their hosts since match day two when they secured a one-all draw at Ocean Boys.

Impressive forward, George Akpabio, scored a beautiful goal in the 81st minute that would contest for the goal of the season award to boost the club’s survival battle.

Akpabio, who was a constant threat to the Kwara United defence beat his marker easily and tipped the ball over on-rushing goalkeeper Yekeen Kareem, who was already out of his line.

His third goal of the campaign cancelled Kabiru Sanusi’s opener on 47th minute.

Sanusi hit a rebound from close range after Plateau United’s goalkeeper, Abdul Isah parried a shot within the box towards the Kwara United forward at a time his defenders were caught ball watching.

Kadiri Ikhana’s Kwara United had a slight edge over the visitors, but failed to convert their chances.

Kwara Football Academy graduate, Barnabas Imenger, goal scorer, Sanusi and substitute Yau Abdullahi missed clear chances to bury the visitors.

Plateau United fought gallantly and seized control of the game with 15 minutes left to play.

Substitutes Stanley Dimgba, Kelly Paul and Akpabio combined to create uncomfortable moments in the Kwara United area which eventually resulted in the equalizer.

Akpabio and Dimgba would have earned a famous away win for the club if their chances were well targeted.

Nduka expressed satisfaction that his wards were able to overcome their psychological problems to earn the point on match day.

“We have played well virtually in all our matches, but the results have not been commensurate with the efforts. So they’ve been demoralized. The goal we conceded was due to loss of concentration.

“I thank God for this result because we’ve been lifted. This result is the beginning of new things for us,” Nduka told SuperSport.com.

It was the second time Kwara United will share points with their guests.

Kaduna United was the first team to earn an away draw against the Ilorin side on match day two.