Beyond Limits derail Imperial’s moving train with comeback win

Beyond Limits came out on top in the second-versus-first TCC League tussle, winning 3-2 against Imperial.

Proceedings however started in a cagey manner, with each side wary of the other. Despite being the away side, Imperial moved the ball around well as they got a feel of the pitch. They went on to get the first goal of the game in the 19th minute through Musa Maleek.

Against the run of play, the winger found space to run into behind the home defense. In a lightning-quick move and with precision, he sent the ball past an on-rushing Daniel Aiyenugba.

Two minutes later, he doubled his tally, taking advantage of a melee in the 18-yard area. 

The reigning champs, two goals down, remain unperturbed. Coach Olumide’s side seemed unshaken and rather grew in confidence as they played. And they would get rewards for their hard work before half-time as Kparobo matched Maleek’s feat, scoring a brace in two minutes.

The first came in the 31st minute, with the forward pouncing as Imperial failed to clear their lines. His second was scored in like manner: Poor defending by Imperial saw Kparobo slot the ball past Enitan Oladele in goal.

The second half was much quieter than the goal. Both sides, wary of conceding a third, played rather cautiously. Beyond Limits would however go on to have the last say as Okiemute broke Imperial hearts by scoring in the second minute of stoppage time.

The second-half substitute was unmarked at the far post as a long cross flew into the box. Latching on to it, he sent the ball into an unmanned net, condemning Coach Adedeji’s men to a defeat.

With their win, the hosts have now moved within one point of the log leaders. Talk about an interesting end to the first half of the season.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Kparobo Arierhi (Beyond Limits)

Is it a Beyond Limits game these days if Kparobo doesn’t score? Like a fox in the box, his instincts helped to make the most of Imperial’s errors, helping his side draw level at half time.