Ratels Blow Two-Goal Lead as Heartland Queens Rally

By Arinzechi Chukwunonso

Naija Ratels’ fast start was undone by a strong second-half response from Heartland Queens as both teams played out a 2–2 draw in an entertaining NWFL Premiership clash in Abuja.

The hosts were dominant early, racing into a two-goal lead within 22 minutes. Onu Markwell opened the scoring in the 13th minute, before Paulina Orshio doubled the advantage nine minutes later, putting Ratels firmly in control.

Heartland Rally After the Break

The game shifted after halftime as Heartland Queens returned with renewed energy and belief.

Their pressure paid off in the 71st minute when Emmanuella James reduced the deficit. Faith Samson then completed the comeback in the 79th minute to earn the visitors a valuable point.

Okala Blames Fatigue, Thin Squad

Speaking after the match, Naija Ratels head coach Sabo Okala expressed disappointment, pointing to fatigue and limited squad depth.

“It’s unfortunate we couldn’t see out the game. You could clearly see fatigue setting in, and the truth is I don’t have a full squad to rotate,” he said.

Okala revealed that the team is managing with about 15 players, some of whom are carrying injuries, while off-field issues affected recruitment.

“I didn’t get the full complement of players I hoped for. These are young girls we are building into a new team. Inexperience will show at times, but they will grow.”

He also praised goalkeeper Vincent Massey for her experience and leadership in a youthful squad.

“Most of the goals we’ve conceded are down to inexperience, not her.”

Despite dropping points, Okala urged fans to remain patient.
“The group is still very open. We’ve taken four points so far, and we’ll keep pushing

Heartland Coach Praises Team Spirit

Heartland Queens technical adviser Regan Obi Ogbala praised his side’s resilience after going two goals down.
“Every match is winnable. After conceding two goals, I told the girls we could still do better — and they believed.”
He credited his halftime message for the turnaround.

“If you want to be champions, you have to play like champions. Naija Ratels are not a pushover, so we had to raise our level.”

While his team aimed for all three points, Obi Ogbala accepted the draw as a positive result.

“Coming back from two goals down to get a point is a plus. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.”

NWFL Premiership Results
• Naija Ratels 2–2 Heartland Queens
Markwell (13’), Orshio (22’) — James (71’), Samson (79’)
• Delta Queens 3–1 Confluence Queens
• Dannaz Ladies 1–5 Robo Queens
• Edo Queens 2–0 Adamawa Queens
• Rivers Angels 1–0 Ibom Angels
• Bayelsa Queens 2–0 Pacesetters Queens
• Nasarawa Amazons 0–0 Abia Angels
• Ahudiyannem Queens 0–0 Sunshine Queens

The draw keeps the NWFL Premiership finely balanced, with both Naija Ratels and Heartland Queens still firmly in contention as the season gains momentum.