Makurdi witnessed an electrifying football encounter on Monday, February 3rd, 2025, as the staff of Unique Secondary School took on their students in a fiercely contested friendly match. The showdown, which kicked off at 4:00 pm, kept spectators on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
The match opened with intense action as the students launched an early offensive, but the staff’s defense, led by Mr. Girgih Charles and Mr. Progress Ughwubetine, stood firm. Despite relentless attempts by the students, it was the staff who broke the deadlock in the 34th minute. A brilliant build-up from midfield saw Engr. Asawa Demian deliver a precise cross that set up Mr. Philip I., who slotted the ball past the goalkeeper, with the Halftime Score ending as 1 – 0 with the staff leading.
The second half saw heightened determination from both teams. Mr. Philip struck again in the 56th minute, doubling the staff’s lead. However, the students fought back with resilience. Jirgba Manasseh became the game-changer for the students, netting two impressive goals in the 69th and 77th minutes to level the scoreline.
The turning point came in the 82nd minute when Hortyo Peter of the students received a red card for a handball that denied the staff a scoring opportunity. The numerical advantage proved decisive as Mr. Oche Ugwu sealed victory for the staff in the 86th minute with a well-placed shot, leading to a Final Score of 3 – 2 with the staff securing victory over the Students.
The match ended with cheers and applause from spectators, including enthusiastic support from Mrs. Terhemen Nguyiman and other staff members.
In her post-match remarks, Head Girl Avav Emmanuella described the game as an “exciting and surprising encounter,” praising the staff for their unexpected football prowess. She humorously suggested organizing a future match between the staff and parents.
The friendly match showcased teamwork, sportsmanship, and the vibrant spirit of the Unique Secondary School community.
