There was controversy at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasigba, Ibadan, on Sunday, as Sunshine Stars of Akure lost 1-0 to Shooting Stars of Ibadan in the week 22 of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
Both sides were hungry for a win, to boost their campaign against relegation. However, an eight minute strike by former Sunshine Stars, Ajani decided the fate of the match.
After the hosts dominated the first 15 minutes of play, Sunshine Stars grew momentum and had the ball in the back of the net in the 39th minute when Ebitimi Agogo tapped into an almost empty net after 3SC goal keeper Adamu Abubakar had parried Thomas Adeshina shot into his path. However the goal was controversially flagged off by the Assistance Referee II, Sonibare Sadiq.
The only scoring chance Sunshine Stars could manage in the second half was another strike by Agogo in the 65th minute, which was saved by the keeper, Abubakar. All other attacking efforts by Austin Eguavoen's boys yielded no goal.
Flashback to Sunshine Star's week 22 home match against Lobi Stars. A similar controversy occurred as the Owena Waves were denied a crucial goal, with Eguavoen stating his displeasure with the officiating.
Next for Sunshine Stars FC is a midweek home tie against Plateau United while Shooting Stars host former Champions, Kano Pillars.
