Coach Yemi Olanrewaju of Enyimba FC has blamed his players 1-2 loss to Kwara United in Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League tie played in Ilorin, on poor officiating.

Mr Olanrewaju told journalists after the match at the Ilorin Township Stadium that the referee spoiled the good rhythm enjoyed by both teams with his poor officiating.

A brace from Emmanuel Ogbole in the 8th and 49th minute gave the home side the needed three points, while Ikenna Cooper’s 38th minute equaliser could not save the day for the Aba boys.

According to the coach, poor officiating limited the performances of players on the pitch.

He said, “The first half was okay as the referee was in good control of the match, but in the second half, everything changed. It was obvious that there was pressure on him and that he was threatened, everyone was all over him which made us have nine yellow cards and three red cards with myself inclusive. Both teams competed well in the game and the game was physical which is what made me angry with the referee.

“When you blow the whistle unnecessarily, you restrict the players from giving their best. My players are disciplined and they control their temperament well. This is the first red card we will have this season, and for me, it is the first in my career. But it is what it is, the game is gone, unto the next one.’’

Coach Olanrewaju, however, commended their opponents for putting up a strong fight, saying that he had the opportunity of meeting his former team.

On his part, Kwara United Coach, Kabir Dogo, attributed the win to the doggedness of the players, as well as the support from all stakeholders.

He said the players understood what was at stake as it was dangerous to lose a point at this stage of the season, which informed why they fought tooth and nail to get a win.

With the win, the Harmony Boys now placed 14th on the league table and will be facing 3SC of Ibadan in their next encounter on Tuesday. 

(NAN)