Ikorodu City returned to winning ways in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a 2-0 victory over Kwara United in their Matchday 8 fixture at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on Saturday.
The Oga Boys made a blistering start to the encounter, taking the lead just two minutes into the match through Salami Farouk, who rose highest to head home from a well-delivered throw-in by Ujunwa Elijah.
The early goal gave the hosts the momentum and put Kwara United under immediate pressure as the visitors struggled to contain Ikorodu City’s attacking threat.
The Lagos-based side continued to press forward and doubled their advantage in the 36th minute. Ikechukwu Junior connected with a delivery from Olumide Akinwande to score with another well-placed header and give the hosts a comfortable lead before half-time.
The goal was Ikechukwu’s third in the league this season, underlining his growing importance to the Ikorodu City attack.
Kwara United returned for the second half hoping to mount a comeback, but the Harmony Boys struggled to break down a determined home defence.
Ikorodu City remained organised and protected their two-goal advantage to secure all three points without conceding.
Kwara United’s difficult afternoon was compounded in the 86th minute when Saheed Olaniyi was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for a reckless challenge.
The dismissal left the visitors with 10 men in the closing stages and further reduced their chances of salvaging a result.
The victory marked an important response from Ikorodu City following their 2-0 defeat to Rivers United on Matchday 7.
The Oga Boys will take confidence from their strong first-half performance as they continue their league campaign.
Kwara United, meanwhile, will look to regroup and address their shortcomings ahead of their next fixture.
