Super Sub Alex Otakho Aghahowa’s 71st-minute spot-kick was the difference for Lobi Stars as they secured a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Cynosure FC in the Governor Okowa Pre-Season Tournament at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Thursday Morning.
Cynosure FC began the game on a bright note when English Timothy set up lanky striker Patrick Nwogbaga who failed to test goalkeeper John Lawrence in goal for the 2018 league champions.
The Pride of Benue failed to impress in the first half but came alive in the second stanza as Joseph Osadiaye twice came close but Imiete Believe was on hand to deny the winger on both occasions.
Lobi Stars were awarded a penalty kick when Ifeanyi Anyanwu of Cynosure committed a reckless tackle in the box.
Former El-Kanemi Warriors star Aghahowa sent Believe the wrong way to put Gbenga Ogunbote’s men in front.
Cynosure FC threw more bodies in the final third but the Pride of Benue held on to pick maximum points for their first win of the tourney.
