By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
A 90th-minute penalty denied Chona and Friends FC victory as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Chidex FC in an FCT Football Association Division One fixture at the Area 3 Football Pitch.
Chona and Friends had looked the more purposeful side for much of the game and took the lead through Elijah, who headed home a well-delivered cross from Abel.
The side appeared set to secure all three points until Chidex won a penalty in the final minute.
Chidex converted the spot-kick to snatch a share of the points and leave Chona and Friends to rue the late setback.
Despite the result, Chona and Friends CEO David Ayegba praised the players for their commitment and discipline.
“We are happy with the performance of the boys. They showed good character, worked hard and followed the plan for most parts of the game,” Ayegba said.
He acknowledged the disappointment of conceding late but urged the team to focus on the positives and improve ahead of its next fixture.
“Unfortunately, we conceded from a penalty in the 90th minute, but that is football. We have to take the positives from this game and work on the areas where we need to improve.”
Chona and Friends will face Basic Maracana next, with Ayegba calling on the players to remain focused as the Division One campaign continues.
“We will prepare properly for Basic Maracana. We know it will be another tough game, but we are ready to work, improve and give our best. It is one game at a time,” he said.
