NNL: Abakaliki FC defeat Stormers SC 1–0By Nabob Ogbonna, Abakaliki

Abakaliki FC, popularly known as the “De Rice Boys,” on Saturday returned from the mid-season break with a 1–0 victory over Stormers SC of Abeokuta.

The winning goal was scored in the first half by Ogo Chukwu.
However, Abakaliki FC goalkeeper Pascal made three crucial saves to keep his side at the top of the National League table.
Head Coach Star Plus Izuikem Anistar praised the team’s resilience and winning spirit since he took over the club last year.
According to him, “The opening win is a major boost for the squad after the mid-season break. Stormers FC rose to the challenge, but we held on until the final minutes.
“We will keep our winning spirit high, and that is why we are calling on our fans to always come out in their numbers to cheer the Rice Boys,” he stated.
Stormers FC had defeated Abakaliki FC 4–0 at home in the first leg of the fixture.
In their next match, Abakaliki FC will face First Bank FC in Lagos on Friday next week, hoping to maintain their winning momentum.
Before the mid-season break, the team suffered a home defeat to First Bank FC at the PA Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki.
Alo Friday of the Rice Boys was named Man of the Match.