Sunshine Stars midfielder Liman Ahmadu has become the second player to score a hat trick in Nigeria Premier Football League this season as the Akure side shut out Kwara United 4-2 to ease their relegation worries.
The exciting match day 27 tie produced six goals within a spare of forty-seven minutes to the amazement of the sparse crowd at Remo Stadium in Ikenne, Ogun State.
Ahmadu tapped into the far corner from Seth Mayi’s pass in the 11th minute to put Sunshine Stars ahead.
Kwara United cut short the home side’s jubilation in the 22nd minute as the remarkable Issa Gatta equalised for the Afonja Warriors, beating Lateef Ishola in goal.
The visitors took the lead five minutes later through a Wasiu Alalade strike, leaving the home side trailing in the 27th minute.
Following persistent pressure from the hosts, Kwara United scored an own goal in the 33rd minute off Waheed Adebayo’s pass.
Ahmadu restored Sunshine Stars’ lead in the 45th minute with a classy finish from Stephen Chukwude low header.
Obviously the man of the match, Ahmadu completed his hat trick with another spectacular finish from Waheed Adebayo’s assist in the 47th minute, to extend the Owena Whales’ lead.
The Afonja Warriors responded swiftly in an attempt to reduce the deficit but Sunshine Stars’ defence remained resolute, frustrating all their attacking efforts and securing the maximum points.
Sunshine Stars head coach Bobola Akinfolarin commended his players for their resilience in coming back from 1-2 to claim victory.
Akinfolarin stressed that his side would not relent until they exit the relegation zone, acknowledging the challenges of playing without getting desired results.
“We are working seriously on our defence to ensure we stop conceding goals, both home and away.
“With the support of God, our fans, and all stakeholders, we are optimistic about exiting the red zone.”
A visibly frustrated Kwara United coach, Tunde Sanni expressed his disappointment over his team’s defensive collapse.
“We have never conceded this many goals since the beginning of the league. I am confused and not happy with the outcome of the game.
“Look at the goals we conceded; I can’t explain what went wrong. I don’t feel right at the moment.”
He admitted that the officiating was fair, adding that his team simply did not rise up to the occasion.
Sunshine Stars will next visit Lafia to face Nasarawa United.
Femi Atolagbe
Sunshine Stars Media Manager