Atule scores as Enyimba over Insurance in Aba

Joseph Atule’s debut goal helped Enyimba to a 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Enyimba Stadium on Wednesday.

The People’s Elephant were in search of a second win in 72 hours following the weekend’s 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars, and Finidi George rang three changes, introducing Daniel Daga, Eriugo Adiele and George Owen to the XI while Chibueze Izuogu, Elijah Akanni and Joseph Atule dropped to the bench.

Chidiebere Nnachi cut in from the right to release a low ball into the box as Enyimba showed intent from the start, while Chijioke Mbaoma and George Owen also had their moments as a lively first half came to a barren end.

The introduction of Elijah Akanni and Joseph Atule had fired up an already spirited display, and the contest turned out to be a climax as the decisive moments came in the closing stages.

Substitute Joseph Atule curled a beautiful strike into the far post to give Finidi George’s side the lead in the 70th minute, but Insurance restored parity five minutes later when Ismail Sarki capitalised on a defensive blunder to push the ball beyond goalkeeper Henry Ani.

Chijioke Mbaoma played a big role to ensure that Enyimba had the last laugh, though, as his low cross was diverted into the net by an opponent in the 80th minute to crown a dramatic ten minutes at the Enyimba Stadium and seal victory for the hosts.