Akwa United captain Ubong Friday has finally joined the growing list of hat-trick scorers in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) this season.
Ubong on Tuesday evening carved his name into the league’s history books as he became the sixth player this season to secure a hat-trick, Footballrover reports.
Friday’s three goals helped his side secure a crucial 4-1 victory over the Niger Tornadoes in a matchday 30 fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
This win marked the first for the new manager, Muhammad Babaganaru, who had lost his previous two matches in charge.
The captain kicked off the goal spree by capitalising on a rebounded shot from Seyi Oguntayo, heading home the opener from close range.
As the first half progressed, Akwa United doubled their lead through a sublime curling effort from winger Osoba Kabir, offering a sigh of relief for the Promise Keepers in their quest for crucial points.
The second half witnessed a masterclass from Ubong Friday, who single-handedly dismantled the Niger Tornadoes defence with two clinical finishes.
His first goal of the half came from a well-executed header off a pinpoint corner kick by Sani Suleiman, swiftly followed by a composed penalty conversion, completing his hat-trick in style.
Despite a late consolation goal from Niger Tornadoes’ Clinton Jephta, Akwa United emerged triumphant, albeit finishing the game with ten men following Ubong Essien’s expulsion due to a second yellow card.
FT:
It's a victorious outing at the Nest of Champions
Akwa United 4-1 Niger Tornadoes#AkwTor#NPFL24
— Akwa United FC (@AkwaUnited_fc) April 16, 2024
With his goal against Ikon Allah, Ubong Friday joins growing list of NPFL hat-trick heroes this season.
◽Nenrot Silas — Plateau United
◽Nyima Nwagua — Rivers United
◽Robert Mizo — Bayelsa United
◽Yusuf Abdullahi — Kano Pillars
◽Albert Hillary — Plateau United
With this vital victory, Akwa United now stands 18th on the league table with 34 points, intensifying their battle to avoid relegation with eight matches.
The win keeps Akwa United’s survival hopes alive as they look to avoid relegation from the NPFL.
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