Lobi Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by Flight FC in a pre-season friendly at the JS Tarka Stadium, Gboko, after Dominic Foga struck late to rescue his side.
The encounter delivered end-to-end action, with both teams displaying attacking intent. Flight FC made an early statement as Benjamin Agugu forced goalkeeper David Obiazor into a smart save. Lobi Stars responded with attempts of their own, but the hosts continued to show resilience. Isaq Osama’s free kick was tipped away by Obiazor, while Bensen Melai denied Solomon Kwambe at the opposite end.
Lobi Stars nearly went ahead through Bidemi Owoku before the half-hour mark, but Melai produced a superb save. Moments later, Flight FC found the breakthrough when John Lim turned inside the box and fired past Obiazor to give the home side the lead. The hosts held firm to preserve their advantage at the break.
Coach Abubakar Bala introduced Yusuf Azeez, Dominic Foga and Sini Gwar after halftime, a move that revitalised Lobi Stars’ attack. Azeez went close, but Melai once again proved equal to the effort. The pressure eventually paid off three minutes from time when Foga pounced on a rebound to level the score.
Foga almost snatched a winner late on with a powerful header, but Melai made another fine stop to ensure the match ended all square.
Speaking afterwards, Coach Bala praised his players’ response in the second half. “I’m happy we equalised; the match was thrilling to watch, and I saw positive gains. We will continue to prepare strongly with more practice games for match fitness ahead of the season,” he said.
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