Nigeria Premier League: ‘Dolphins’ll Get Better’

“Our next aim is to get a good result in the next game against Rangers in Enugu.” The above was the statement made by Coach of Dolphin, Stanley Eguma after weekend’s Nigeria Premier League match.

Victor Michael starred as the league leaders, Dolphins defeated relegation threatened Plateau United 3-0 at the Port Harcourt Liberation Stadium.

Dolphins were still missing a host of their star players like goal keeper, Sunday Rotimi, forward, Abduljelil Ajagun and midfielders, Omo Ojabu and Chidi Osuchukwu who were all away on international duty with the Super Eagles and Flying Eagles.

The visitors started strongly and created some excellent chances but it was the home side that came closest to breaking the deadlock on 18 minutes. Defender Mutiu Adegoke created space on the left but his cross cum shot was well dealt with by Segun Ayo in goal for United.

The leaders didn’t have to wait long for the opening goal which arrived barely a minute later via Victor Michael who side footed into an empty net from four yards out after Captain Ejindu delivered an inch perfect cross from the right.

United were stunned into action but their attempts to get a quick response was thwarted by the resolute backline of Dolphin, marshalled by Emma Godwin.

Slowly, Dolphins regained control and duly got the second goal through Michael who completed his brace in brilliant fashion, three minutes after the break.

The lanky forward picked up a great pass from Derrick Amadi and raced to the edge of the box and fired an unstoppable shot past the despairing Ayo as Dolphin took firm control of the match.

United rang the changes with impressive youngster, Emmanuel Edafe justifying his second half inclusion with some aggressive play and attempts on target. Dolphin keeper, Udoo Ochiogu was in no charitable mood though and easily took care of all that was directed at him.

With the game moving to an uneventful climax, Olewezi Johnson crept up unnoticed exploiting a lack of communication between a Plateau United defender and keeper, Ayo to score with a delicious lob to add gloss to the scoreline.

Goal scoring hero, Victor Michael was pleased with his efforts. “I am happy I got two goals but I should have gotten a hat trick. I hope to repeat the same performance Rangers in the next game,” he told SuperSport.com.

Dolphins remains top of the pile with 46 points from 21 matches while United remain in relegation trouble with 16 points from 21 games.