Alimosho defeated Dannaz 2-1 with two first half goals from forwards Victory Odanlumen and Simi as the lifted the title without losing a game this season at the Nitel Pitch, Cappa, Lagos, on Sunday.
All the goals in the game were scored in a blistering and exciting opening half of the match, with 16-year-old Simi the most outstanding player on the pitch.
It was the third meeting between the two in the Bet9jaSociaLiga, with the Herd pencilled down as favourites having never lost or conceded a goal to the Cedars.
It was no surprise to see the Thundering Herd dominate most of the final especially the first half and deservedly took the lead when Victory tapped into an empty net following wonderful work on the right from the trio of Olamide Adugbe, Aminat Folorunsho and Simi.
Moments later, Woman of the match, Simi, who was thrilling spectators at Cappa with her wonderful artistry, produced the most magical moment of the game to double the advantage for Alimosho.
Simi’s turn to evade the defender before letting fly from just outside the Dannaz box is better seen than described, and the finish? Absolutely world class.
At 2-0, Alimosho looked home and dry but were reminded that top scorer in the Women’s Liga, Ajoke Akinbo, was still on the pitch when she calmly pulled one back for the Cedars just before the break.
The half ended 2-1 in favour of the Herd, who were obviously the better side with the scoreline flattering Dannaz who had Akinbo and poor finishing from Alimosho to thank for still being in the game at the break.
After the break, it was expectedly a cagey affair from both sides but the excitement was never really lost as fans at the stands continued to enjoy themselves.
Now aware of the threat called Simi, the 16-year-old baller was Herrera-ed by the Dannaz bench, while Angel Mosindi and Blessing Emefile tried to run the show for the Cedars.
But for all their efforts in the second half, the equaliser remained elusive as Deborah Annoh-led backline stood firm to handle all the nervy moments fashioned out by a now determined Dannaz side.
Godsend Collins, Alimosho coach, helped his side manage the rest of the game as they held on to seal the win and title.
Finally, something to celebrate for the Thundering Herd, who as SCN lost 2018 final to dethroned champions, Knights Ladies.
The first-ever title for Alimosho, joining the likes of Saints Ladies and Knights (twice) as the only teams to have ever lifted the priceless crown.
For Dannaz, while disappointed they lost the match and title, they will take solace in the fact that they have had an excellent debut campaign.
Surely, they will be back next season to go one step better but for now, this moment belongs to the unbeaten champions, Alimosho and the celebrations have started and won’t be ending anytime soon for the Herds and their fans.
Woman of the Match: Simi
