NWFL: Heartland Queens, Abia Angels' Oriental Derby Ends Goalless In Owerri

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By Sportsgister

Heartland Queens were left frustrated and pained as they were forced to a goalless draw by the visitors, Abia Angels in a thrilling NWFL Premiership oriental derby clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Wednesday, January 29.

Still in search of their first win of the season after two back to back defeats to Ekiti Queens and champions, Edo Queens, the Owerri-based side dominated proceedings, pinning the Umuahia based side deep into their own half for the large period of the game.

However, their relentless attacking efforts were thwarted by an inspired performance from the Abia Angels goalkeeper, Osinachi Abani who pulled off series of crucial saves to deny the hosts any moment of celebrations.

Heartland Queens’ shot-stopper, Uchenna Chukwu had a relatively quiet evening with Abia Angels struggling to pose any real attacking threat. Former Heartland Queens forward, Lucky Mary, now on loan at Abia Angels, found herself well-marshalled by center back, Nnenna Williams who kept her in check and miserable throughout the game.

Despite creating several goal-scoring opportunities, the Owerri mainstreams failed to break the deadlock. Emmanuella James, Onyinyechi Kalu, captain Chimebere Opara, Chisom Henry, and Faith Samson all came close, only to be denied by the brilliance of the Abia Angels goalkeeper, Abani.

The second half saw a more balanced contest but the Owerri landladies ceaselessly continued to push forward in search of a breakthrough.

Coach Obi Ogbala made tactical switches, bringing in Tosin Ogundeko for Onyinyechi Kalu, while Chinwendu Orji and Chizoba Johnson also entered the fray in places of captain, Chimebere Opara and Monica Matthew, respectively. Matthew, in particular, had caused panic in the Abia Angels’ defensive third before her withdrawal.

Abia Angels responded with substitutions of their own but remained largely on the back foot as Heartland Queens maintained their attacking prowling.

Late in the game, lanky attacker, Happiness Agboye was introduced to replace Emmanuella James in a final attempt to snatch all three points at stake but the visitors held firmly to secure a valuable point on the road.

At the final whistle, it was Abia Angels who left the pitch the happiest of the two sides, as Heartland Queens were left ruing missed opportunities in a game they largely dominated from start to finish.

The result means Heartland Queens are still searching for their first win of the ongoing season as they hope to bounce back to earn the first win in their next road outing at the 2024 Sheroes Cup winners and two-season experiencers, Remo Stars Ladies in Ikenne, Ogun state.