Nasarawa United technical adviser Mbwas Mangut has praised his players following their hard-earned 2–1 victory over Abia Warriors at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Sunday, a result that boosted the Solid Miners’ push at the top end of the table, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Former Enyimba striker Chukwuemeka Obioma gave Abia Warriors the lead two minutes before halftime, putting the hosts in control heading into the break. However, Nasarawa United responded strongly in the second half, with substitute Habibu Alakija drawing the visitors level in the 47th minute.
Jofrank Istifanus then completed the turnaround just eight minutes later, capitalising on a goalkeeping error to score the winning goal in the 55th minute and secure all three points for the visitors.
Speaking after the match, Mangut commended his players for their resilience and determination, stressing the importance of the victory for the team’s ambitions.
“It’s quite a great win for us. We knew very well that we needed to get ourselves together to do what we did today,” Mangut told the club’s media.
“They were leading 1-0 heading into the break, but we told ourselves that a loss today would further drag us down a dangerous position, which would not be good for our ambitions, and I am glad it paid off, because we took advantage of the goalkeeping error.”
Mangut also reserved special praise for goalkeeper Darlintin Ovunda, highlighting his crucial contribution to the result.
“All the players had a great game today, including the goalkeeper, Darlintin Ovunda, who was quite exceptional as he has always been. I must give him credit for the massive saves he made today, which proved decisive in our win,” he added.
The victory lifted Nasarawa United to second position on the league table. The Solid Miners will now turn their attention to a tough Matchday 23 clash against Enyimba in Aba on Wednesday.