Date: 2016-08-16

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) members and Nigeria National League (NNL) officials, especially the Referee Appointment Committee members (names withheld) were all present at the Aper Aku stadium on Saturday to support Dream Team against Kwara United FC in the Week 11 encounter of the second tier league.

That was enough to give referee Dankano Abdullahi the liver to bring the game into disrepute, awarding all infringements against the visitors, including two dubious penalties in both halves of the crucial match.

Dream International FC had 18 points going into the match, while Kwara United FC had 20, with the outcome of the encounter having a direct bearing on who finally picks the sole ticket in the group.

Referee Dankano Abdullahi from Kogi State and his compatriots, Mohammed Alhaji and Maikudi Abdullahi (Assistant Referees) played the twelfth player for Dream International FC, as they intimidated Kwara United FC throughout in the match.

The first penalty awarded Dream International in the 42nd minute was stopped by goalkeeper Ismaila Shagari, and in their determination to ensure that the homers win, allowed some offside opportunities which they couldn't score, before awarding the second penalty which they converted.

The controversial spot kick was converted by goalkeeper Obioma Sway. Kwara United defender, Obadaki Halilu was also sent off five minutes after interval to give Dream International FC numerical strenght.

Efforts to get Kwara United officials for their comments proved abortive. With the win, Dream International FC now have 21 points, and on top of the Group A2 table ahead of their visit to Adamawa United next week. Kwara United FC with 20 points will host Gombe United FC at the same time, in Ilorin.