NPL: Dolphins pick first ever point against Heartland in Owerri

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Dolphins grabbed a point in Owerri against Heartland, their first ever on that ground since the inception of the club.

Kelechi Ekeh’s free kick on 35 minutes was deflected into the net as Heartland celebrated the first goal of the game but Ifeanyi Egwim replied promptly with two minutes left to play in the first half as he took out his marker on the left and shot with his right to beat Achor Philip in goal for Heartland.

Dolphins head coach, Stanley Eguma handed two players, Hope Fiberesima, in defensive midfield and Tijani Adamu their debuts in the game and made a surprise pick of Togolese Joseph Daovi Daohadji in the center of defence.

Late in the game when Heartland piled the pressure on the visitors looking for the winner, the height of Fiberesima, Ezuruike and Daohadji came in handy as they cleared out the crosses that came from both sides of the pitch.

They also kept their composure to ensure they left with a point.

Mention must be made of Dolphins goalkeeper, Augustine Brown whose three incredible saves, one in the first half and two in the second, kept his side in the game.

Heartland’s head coach, Kelechi Emetoele said after the game that he was very satisfied with the performance of his side.

“The boys played well and gave their all. We have lots of players who are not yet eligible to play because of delays in the registration process.

“I am sure that by the time we get our full team you will see much better displays,” Emetoele said.

Dolphins’ manager Stanley Eguma said he was happy with the performance of his young side.

“The two teams played well but I must give kudos to my boys for a job well done.

“The pitch affected my play a bit but I give it to my young players who held out on till the end,” Eguma said.