By Hananeel Jackson

Chima Derou 88th minute goal gave Delta Force a 3-2 victory over Bayelsa United in a Pre-season friendly match at the Samson Siasia stadium Yenagoa on Sunday.

Coach Diepreye Teibowei tutored side created many scoring opportunities in the first half but were unable to convert their chances despite dominating proceeding in the midfield.

Favour Martin drew the first blood on 54th when the Asaba based side brought Christian Mizo down in the eighteen yard box and the diminutive midfielder sent the Delta Force goalie the wrong way.

Five minutes later,Ekwutosi Eze restored parity for the visitors through a well connected pass to go pass Bayelsa United goalkeeper on 61st minutes. Favour Martin’s again on 64th minutes made it two goals up for the host from a thirty yard shot.

However, the visitors did not relent in quest for equaliser as Ekwutosi Eze finally level points for Delta Force on 69th when he went pass Bayelsa United defence line to slot in the leveller.

The host continued to press hard for the third goal with the introduction of Joshua Uge and Emo James after Favour Martin’s was pulled off as a result of muscle pain on 74th minutes. Hassan Oladimeji cross almost provided the needed goal but his efforts went wide.

With three minutes to the end of hostility Chima Derou 88th goal ensures that Delta Force return to Asaba with smile despite the academic exercise nature of the game.

Bayelsa United will focus on the January 30th commencement of the Nigeria National League ,NNL, against Apex Krane Fc of Agbor.

The encounter was witnessed by the Chairman Bayelsa State House of Assembly committee on Sports Mr. Tari Porri, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Patimide Tukuru, Director of Sports, Bayelsa State, Sports Council Sir Braveman Wodi and other top personalities.