Newly promoted Katsina United started their campaign in the ongoing Naija Super 8 tournament on a promising note as they forced highly enterprising Remo Stars to a 1-1 draw in the Group B played yesterday at the Mobolaji Johnson Sports Arena in Lagos.
The Sky Blue boys took the lead against the run of play when Fabian Iworie capitalised on a sloppy defending to guide the ball home in the 20th minute.
However, the lead was short-lived as Katsina United rallied back in two minutes to restore parity when new signing Samson Olasupo rebounded the ball into the net after his first effort hit the crossbar.
On resumption, Katsina United made a passionate penalty appeal when they felt their mesmerising attacking winger, Kenneth Amia, was tripped in the opponents’ box.
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Both sides made some changes but failed to find the winning goal despite creating several chances.
Remo Stars who are topping the table with four tops will take on Sporting of Lagos in their last group match while Katsina United face former African Champions, Enyimba FC.
In a post-match interview, Katsina United’s winger, Amia who missed the Hero of the Match award to Fabian Iworie by a point, said he was not surprised by the outcome of the match.
He said many people had given victory to Remo Stars but he was confident because he knew his side was equal to the task.
“Katsina United is not a pushover because we also have very experienced players in our team. Some of us have played continental football but some players in Remo are yet to do so,” said the former Kano Pillars and Nasarawa United winger.
In the last match of the day, another newly promoted side, Sporting FC Lagos forced their more illustrious opponents, Enyimba of Aba to a goalless draw.
Action in the Naija Super 8 will continue today with one match each in Group A and B.
In the day’s opening match, Lobi Stars who were 2-1 winners over Rivers United will take on Yobe Stars 2-1 losers against Akwa United while Rivers United slug it out with Akwa United in the second match.
