Heartland ends three years Imo FA Cup wait

Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, Heartland of Owerri, on Sunday, reclaimed the Imo FA Cup title after three years’ wait as they pipped OISA FC 2-0 to lift this year’s trophy.

The Naze Millionaires were almost shocked by the OISA men at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, in the first half but for poor marksmanship on the part of their opponents.

Heartland began to show class in the early minutes of the second half as Suraju Lawal scored the opening goal with a clinical finish.

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Heartland maintained the dominance as Lawal scored again to wrap up the game for the former national FA Cup champions.

Speaking after the game, coach of Heartland, Charles Uzor was overjoyed with the victory.

“I’m proud of my players for their hard work and determination. We deserved the win, and it’s a great boost for our confidence,” he told Tribunesport.

OISAC handler, Agbie Minanyo David, blamed the defeat on the injuries sustained by his players, adding that the situation made his team change and apply option B to be able to manage the game.

“Heartland FC is about the name. The players at Heartland are not better than my players and tomorrow my players could be opportune to play for Heartland FC,” the former Go Round gaffer said.

Meanwhile, it was the first trophy won by the Heartland Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, since he came on board as the two clubs would be representing Imo State at the national President Federation Cup otherwise known as the Challenge Cup.