Morgan Mantana’s 6th-minute goal was the difference as defending champions Pokwangli United FC lost to Highlanders FC Ture in the opening match of the 7th Edition of the Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup.
The opening match which was played at the Olusegun Obasanjo Stadium in Kaltungo, yesterday 5th of November 2022, saw Highlanders taking advantage of a defensive mix-up and scoring the opening goal which Pokwangli never recovered from.
In the 53rd minute, Pokwangli had their best chance of the game as Caleb Bala was put through on goal, but he could not beat the goalkeeper, Laban Usman resulting in a corner kick.
The winning coach of the day, Augustine Dantata of Highlanders FC of Ture, said he was happy with the game and enjoyed the fact that he won the match.
On his part, the Coach of Pokwangli United, Timothy David, expressed his disappointment in losing his first match in the 7th Edition and blamed it on a defensive miscommunication between his goalkeeper and defenders. He said he would have to go back and re-strategize as he prepares for the next match.
However, both coaches were grateful and full of appreciation to the organizers for the opportunity given to the youths of Gombe South to express themselves in the field of play.
The 7th Edition of the Adamu Yola Gombe South Unity Cup will have 75 teams participating with the preliminary rounds taking place in Biliri, Balanga, Shongom, and Kaltungo local governments.