Remo Stars wrapped up its 2021/22 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL season with an emphatic 3-0 victory against Niger Tornadoes and a CAF Confederation Cup ticket in the bag.
*HOW IT HAPPENED*
Playing at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne amidst a final day fan fare, Coach Gbenga Ogunbote returned Bankole Kayode in goal while sticking with a front three of Sikiru Alimi, Andy Okpe and Tolulope Ojo.
Remo Stars first clear cut chance came in the 10th minute of the game as Sikiru Alimi dragged his shot wide after being put through on goal.
Olamilekan Adedayo was teed up by Sikiru Alimi in the 19th minute of the game but ballooned his shot.
Tolulope Ojo was next to try to open the scoring for Remo Stars when he skipped past two Niger Tornadoes’ defenders, went for the far post but yet again, shot wide.
Andy Okpe had a late run into the box, only to miss his effort off target in the 25th minute.
On the half hour mark, the breakthrough would come for Remo Stars as Dayo Ojo sent a cutback to Stanley Okorom who was brought down in the box. Andy Okpe stepped up to the spot kick and reached double figure of goals in his debut NPFL season.
Both sides failed to score any other goal in the first half but two minutes after the restart Andy Okpe grabbed his brace via a deft header.
On the hour mark, Sikiru Alimi was withdrawn for Alhameen Adegbite in what appeared like an injury to the striker.
15 minutes before regulation time, Andy Okpe slammed home a low drive to the right side of the goalkeeper for his first ever NPFL hattrick.
Dayo Ojo, Lekan Adedayo and Junior Nduka were then substituted for Oladimeji Dada, Haruna Hadi and Lekan Oyedele Jnr respectively.
Goalkeeper Bankole Kayode was however tested via a free kick from Niger Tornadoes but kept out the visitors attempt with a double save as he finished with a record 16 league clean sheets.
Remo Stars did see off their guest with the game ending 3-0 in favour of the Sky Blue Stars.
*WHAT IT MEANS*
The win ensures Remo Stars finished 3rd on the log for the 2021/22 NPFL season with 62pts, thus, will be representing Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup next season.
*WHAT’S NEXT*
The team will now go on recess and resume for the 2022 Aiteo Cup.
