NPFL: Lobi Stars pip 3SC in Lafia, take three points
The match against Lobi Stars ended in a 1-0 defeat, further compounding 3SC's struggles to secure victories in away games.
By Ahmed Salahudeen
Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan failed to make progress in their quest for success in the current league season after losing to Lobi Stars of Makurdi in Lafia stadium, Nasarawa state, on Saturday.
The match against Lobi Stars ended in a 1-0 defeat, further compounding 3SC’s struggles to secure victories in away games.
A 29th minute strike by Tiza Samuel was all Lobi Stars needed to secure the three points at stake on the matchday five.
Though the Oluyole Warriors’ boys fought to find the back of the net, but they lacked the bite upfront to turn the table in their favour.
According to Tosin Omojola, media officer of the 3SC, the team raised their game in the second half, doing more of the playing but were undone by poor marksmanship.
Shooting Stars will return home for a matchday six tie against Enyimba FC of Aba on Sunday night.
MATCH OVERVIEW
The encounter showcased the resilience of Lobi Stars, who capitalized on their home advantage. The home side took the lead early in the match.
One of the most glaring issues for Shooting Stars this season has been the inability of the Oluyole Warriors to secure points in away fixtures.
With only a handful of draws and no wins away from home, the team has found themselves in a precarious position in the league standings.
This trend has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike, as the inability to perform on the road often proves detrimental in a league where home advantage is crucial.
Several factors contribute to this away game struggle.
Firstly, the team’s tactical approach has often been questioned. Critics argue that the 3SC’s coaching crew has failed to adapt their strategies to the unique challenges posed by away matches, where opposition teams typically play with heightened intensity and confidence.
Additionally, the psychological aspect of playing away from home cannot be overlooked, the pressure of performing in front of hostile crowds can weigh heavily on players, leading to mistakes and missed opportunities.
As the season progresses, Shooting Stars must address these away game challenges if they hope to climb the league table and contend for a respectable finish.
The coaching staff will need to instill a winning mentality in the squad, focusing on building confidence and resilience in away fixtures.
Tactical adjustments, such as adopting a more pragmatic approach to away games, could also be beneficial.
The defeat to Lobi Stars serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for Shooting Stars. With their away game struggles becoming a significant hurdle, the team must regroup and refocus if they are to salvage the season.
Fans will be hoping for a turnaround in form as the club seeks to reclaim its status as a competitive force in Nigerian football.
As the league continues, the pressure is on Shooting Stars to find a way to transform their away performances and secure the vital points needed to rise up the standings.
