FC ONE Rocket Lose NNL Playoff Opener; Seek Redemption Against Heartland Today

FC ONE Rocket’s Nigeria National League Super 8 campaign began with a 1-0 loss to Sporting Lagos on Sunday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

A bright start to the game saw the Indomitables dominate possession in the opening minutes and had chances to grab the opener, but Saviour Isaac’s seventh-minute free kick was blocked, while Clinton Jephta’s header three minutes later got saved by Sporting goalkeeper, Christian Nwoke.

Wonderson Yakubu’s header on the 17th minute, Saviour Isaac’s distant free kick in the 18th minute, and Clinton Jephta’s 29th-minute effort – after a brilliant run into the box – all failed to go in as Christian Nwoke did well to save.

Sporting Lagos also had their moments in the first half, but Kalu Chukwuemeka and Rivio Ayemwenre blasted their efforts wide.

Charles Etim’s hit from distance, 10 minutes into the restart, would miss the target by the whiskers , as free kick attempts from Imam Bala, Shedrach Okere, and Ugochukwu Obiri’s late attempt all went wide.

The deciding moment came two minutes from time when an unmarked Odafi Emmanuel fired home from close range to give Sporting Lagos all three points.

*Ndubisi Ndah’s reaction*

“It is not the start we wanted and it is tough to take, but there is no time to dwell on that.

“We have to pick ourselves up immediately and plan for the game against Heartland. The target now is clear. We have to win to stay in contention for promotion, and I believe in my boys to get the job done.”

*The Effect*

FC ONE Rocket are bottom of the group with zero points, while Sporting Lagos top the log with three points. Heartland FC and Stormers SC are second and third respectively – with a point each – following their goalless draw yesterday.

*Up Next*

FC ONE Rocket face Heartland by 2pm today in a matchday two encounter at the Stephen Keshi Stadium.