Wikki Tourists head coach Evans Ogenyi has called for fair officiating in the Nigeria Premier Football League run-in after his side’s 2-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes in Minna.
The Match Day 32 contest remained evenly poised for long periods, with both teams creating few clear chances in a tightly contested affair.
Wikki Tourists showed defensive discipline and resilience on the road, holding firm under pressure while seeking opportunities on the break.
The turning point came in the 70th minute when Tornadoes were awarded a penalty, converted by Abdul Rashid Shehu Dabai to give the hosts the lead.
Wikki pushed forward in search of an equaliser but were punished deep into stoppage time. A corner delivery found Terdoo Shimagande, whose header secured the result for the home side.
The defeat leaves Wikki in a difficult position as the season approaches its final stretch, increasing pressure ahead of their remaining fixtures.
Reacting after the match, Ogenyi described the result as disappointing but insisted the fight for survival remains alive.
“This result is disturbing, no doubt, but the game is not over until it is finally over. We still have matches to play and we will keep fighting,” he said.
The Wikki coach also appealed for improved officiating standards as the league reaches a decisive phase.
“At this stage of the season, we can only appeal for fair officiating. The teams are working hard, and the outcome of matches should reflect that fairness on the pitch.”
Attention now shifts to a crucial clash against Enyimba International in Jos, a fixture that could define Wikki Tourists’ survival hopes.
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