RUGIPO FOOTBALL CLUB DEFEATS ACHIEVERS WARRIORS 3–1 IN CONVOCATION FRIENDLY MATCH

 By-Temidayo Atere 

Edited by- Ayomiposi Akinrimisi.

Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, on Monday, October 20, 2025, continued its Combined Convocation Ceremonies with an exciting friendly football match between RUGIPO Football Club and Achievers Warriors, held at the institution’s Sports Complex.

The match, which started at 2:00 p.m. and ended at 4:30 p.m., attracted students, staff, alumni, and invited guests who came to witness the thrilling encounter. Both teams began with great energy, but the first half ended in a goalless draw as RUGIPO missed two clear chances while Achievers Warriors failed to register a shot on target.

During halftime, the Acting Rector, Dr. Olorunwa Simeon Adegun, delivered an address appreciating the athletes and students for their commitment to sports. He commended participants of NIPOGA 2022 and the Ijakadi Offa competition for their past achievements and encouraged all students to take part in upcoming convocation programs, including the Public Speaking Contest and the Grand Finale Ceremony.

At halftime, the management also presented certificates of honour and medals to outstanding athletes who had represented the Polytechnic in previous competitions.

The honorees included:

Muhydeen David Emmanuel, Oluwadamilola Babatunde, Shaheed Omotayo, Arikawe Michael, Adeleke Amos, Ajinola Festus, Adedeji Olamilekan, Ajiboye Jumoke, Olorunju Joshua, Idris Ibrahim, and Akinola Gbenga — all of whom represented RUGIPO in the 4×4 relay race.

In recognition of his outstanding performance, Akinola Gbenga, one of the 4×4 relay athletes, was awarded a scholarship to study in Kenya , a gesture that highlights the institution’s commitment to rewarding excellence and encouraging student-athletes to reach greater heights.

The second half resumed at 3:45 p.m., with RUGIPO making two substitutions that changed the tempo of the game. Balogun Olamilekan opened the scoring for RUGIPO at 3:56 p.m., giving the home side the lead.

Achievers Warriors responded at 4:15 p.m., as Favour Olamide netted the equalizer. Their number 6, Akinsanmi Emmanuel, was later booked with a yellow card for rough play.

The game recorded a total of 16 offsides — 10 from Achievers Warriors and 6 from RUGIPO, reflecting both sides’ attacking pressure.

RUGIPO regained control when Balogun Olamilekan scored again from a free kick at 4:24 p.m., restoring the lead before the team extended their advantage, sealing the match 3–1 by 4:30 p.m.

In a post-match interview, Achievers Warriors’ Chief Coach, Mr. Akinwale Roland Olayemi, explained that the match was not a competition but part of the convocation celebration, commending both teams for their improvement and spirit of sportsmanship.

Similarly, RUGIPO Football Coach, Mr. Akatere Abiodun Emmanuel, expressed pride in his players’ performance, stating that although the first half was tense, the second half showcased teamwork and confidence. He added that, with determination and God’s grace, RUGIPO Football Club is ready to compete strongly in the next NIPOGA Football Tournament.

The event ended in excitement, applause, and celebration as RUGIPO Football Club claimed a 3–1 victory, making the match one of the memorable highlights of the ongoing Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Combined Convocation Week 2025.