Full backs to the rescue as much changed selected-side earn a draw!
The much changed starting XI fights to earn a draw at the Akure township stadium with both goals scored by fullbacks Ilesanmi Fisayo and Osasu Sunday.
The selection
Coach Olayiwola decided to use the squad depth and made almost a complete overhaul to the usual XI with the skipper Ajeyomi Lekan the only one who retained his spot in the lineup.
Otaki Tope started in goal, Akingbade Bonny and Emelike Victor joined the skipper in the 3-man defence, Goalscorers Ilesanmi and Osasu started from the left and right wingback poisition respectively, Emmanuel Segun partnered Emeka Okorie in defensive midfield, Bello Olayemi was given the nod in attacking midfield with the duo of Amaechi Sunday and Hassan Musa preferred upfront.
How it went down
The Lions drew the first blood as they’ve usually done lately, this time through a beautiful set piece on the edge of the box by Ilesanmi Fisayo which left the goalkeeper rooted to a spot. The opponent however responded immediately and equalized just after 2 minutes after a loose ball released Okeyemi Olawale through on goal.
The Lions could have taken the lead 4 minutes after the restart when Ajeyomi Lekan headed a set piece from Osasu towards goal but the goalkeeper Oluwaseun made a brilliant low dive save to keep the ball out for a corner kick. The opponent however went on to take the lead through Adewale Sodiq in the 51st minute but we clapped back almost immediately through a fine header from Osasu Sunday. Otaki Tope made sure the score line remained unchanged by denying the opponent from snatching victory with a very good save towards the end of the game.
What’s next
The Lions now shift their focus to the other friendlies scheduled for next week against Weliweli FC, Real Ifon Football Academy from Owo with both matches set to be played in Akure.
Wonderxchange FC (3-4-1-2): Otaki; Lekan (Seun 63),Emelike, Bonny; Ilesanmi (Prince 60), Osasu (Abednego 60), Emeka (Oloore 60),Segun, Olayemi; Musa, Amaechi
Unused Subs: Peter, Melody, Samson, Dahunsi, Afolabi, Chinedu, Omolade, Akpovie
Booked: Fisayo 21, Olayemi 28
Saint FC: Oluwaseun, Michael, Lekan, Alaba, Adeleye, Chibuezu, Adewale, Sodiq, Samuel, Babatunde, Abiodun
Substitutes: Olarenwaju, Lekan, Stephen, Peter, Oladipupo, Oladimeji, Wasiu, Tomisin
