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By Amaechi Agbo

Nasarawa United Coach, Bala Nikyu have refused to blame striker, Silas Nwankwo for the Solid Miners matchday 5 defeat in Benin, against Dakkada FC.

The Lafia club were pipped by 2-1 in matchday 5 of the 2021/2022 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL season on Sunday with last season highest goal scorer, Nwankwo missing a spot kick.

In a match both teams ended with 10 men, Nasarawa United were awarded a penalty in the 55th minute after Ikenna Offor was brought down inside the box.

However, Dakkada goalkeeper, Loveday Anugbuo rose to the occasion as he saved Silas Nwankwo’s spot kick.

“Football is a game you can never predict. The game has been played, won and lost.

“As for the penalty miss by Silas Nwankwo, any player can miss a spot kick, it doesn’t matter their pedigree. It’s just unfortunate that he missed it at the time that we needed it most,” the coach said in his post match reactions.

He blamed rather his boys for being complacent in the game. According to him, Nasarawa United players believed that Dakkada FC playing in a neutral ground in Benin have them the edge to pick the 3 points on a platter.

“I think my boys got carried away by the change of venue, and felt they could just walk past Dakkada.

“Yes, it’s the second time my team is losing on this ground, but I don’t see it as a spell or a venue that has ill-luck against my team. You can lose a game anywhere.”

He expressed optimism that the team will bounce back in their next fixture.

“We will return to prepare for our next match against Lobi Stars.”