By Ikenna Nwokedi
Delta Marines FC on Saturday, 3rd May, 2025 defeated Itamah FC 2-1 in a hard fought victory to earn their second league win of the ongoing 2025 Nationwide League One.
Midfielder maestro, Damian Ikyaator ensured his side would take the maximum points from the game by scoring a late winner in the 95th minute of the game. Prolific striker, Gabriel Friday had earlier given Delta Marines FC the lead in the 20th minute of the encounter which was his 5th goal for his team in all official competitions since joining on loan from Paul FA in February 2025.
Itamah FC drew level just before the half time break to ensure there would be a frenetic end to the pulsating encounter with Damian Ikyaator ensuring the Marines would come out victorious.
The result takes Delta Marines FC into 4th place on the Asaba Centre One League log, after losing to OYC FC 4-1 in their third match of the campaign that saw the Asaba based side reduced to 10 men owing to an early red card to goalkeeper Maduabuchi Chukwuemeka followed by a second defeat to Holy Arrows 3-1.
Reacting after the win, Coach Ikechukwu Mesike rued the impact of the dismissal and absence of Delta Marines FC safe hands Eric Maduabuchi in the two losses. The tactician noted that Delta Marines has won every game so far with Goalkeeper Maduabuchi in goal while also disclosing that Maduabuchi’s plethora of saves and the solid performance of stand-in captain Solomon Ayedogbon in the heart of the defence were instrumental to the win against Itamah FC.
Delta Marines FC will next face Ughelli Rovers FC in their final group game on Monday, 5th May, 2025 which is a most win for the club to sustain their fighting chance of a playoff spot in the league.
