The clash saw Northern Dynamo displaying their trademark passing game, but they struggled to pose a significant threat to the Lightstars’ goalkeeper in the first half.
Meanwhile, Liam Esther, the goalkeeper for Northern Dynamo, showcased an outstanding performance and proved to be a standout player. He made a series of remarkable saves, denying Lightstars’ attempts to find the back of the net. Esther’s heroic efforts kept his team in the game and maintained their hopes of securing much-needed points.
The second half seemed to lack excitement until the 68th minute when Marcus Maria, a renowned game-changer, entered the field as a substitute. Maria wasted no<ctime in making an impact as he swiftly converted a free kick into an impressive goal, leveling the scoreline at 1-1. The electrifying moment ignited Northern Dynamo’s spirits and injected renewed motivation into their gameplay.
Shortly after Maria’s equalizer, Lightstars were awarded a penalty, presenting them with an opportunity to regain the lead. However, Liam Esther continued his exceptional performance by making a phenomenal save, thwarting Lightstars’ hopes of reclaiming the advantage. Esther’s remarkable penalty save solidified his position as the Man of the Match, earning well-deserved praise from fans and teammates alike.
With the penalty save providing an additional boost, Northern Dynamo intensified their offensive pressure on the Praslin island-based team. In the 92nd minute, a skillful display from Marcus Maria resulted in him being fouled inside the box, subsequently earning a penalty for his team. Tolotra Rajomanana stepped up to the spot and confidently converted, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Northern Dynamo.
Following Round 16, Northern Dynamo finds themselves with 14 points, a mere three points away from Anse Reunion, the team positioned just above the relegation zone. As it stands, Northern Dynamo would face Tigers in the Playoff if the current rankings hold.
It is important to note that Northern Dynamo has raised a case against Red Star DF, and they are eagerly awaiting a resolution that could potentially award them three additional points. Such a decision would significantly disrupt the dynamics at the lower end of the Seychelles Premier League table. The Seychelles Football Federation’s prompt action in resolving this case will allow Northern Dynamo and other teams in the relegation battle to continue their fight for crucial points.
Northern Dynamo’s triumph against Lightstars serves as a testament to their resilience and determination to secure their position in the league. With each match proving to be a critical battle, the race to avoid relegation remains intense and unpredictable.
Northern Dynamo Starting XI:
#30 Liam Jonathan Esther
#5 Jallow Modou
#3 Nerry Rose
#7 Edward Bastienne
#8 Ryan Cupidon
#14 Anil Dijoux
#16 Tantely Manana Herizo Randrianarivo
#17 Tolotra Andriatianna Rajomanana Rakotondrasoa
#19 Shakib Hafiz Rose
#22 Graham Faure
#26 Georges Angelito Kalo
Substitutes:
#9 Aldo Dufrene
#10 Marcus Maria
#11 Harim Evenor
#12 Naythan Wayne Barbe
#18 Stephen Dubel
#20 Erol Kurt Bastienne
#29 Gael Denis
Lightstars Starting XI:
#30 Romeo Padayachy
#3 Dino Chrysostome
#4 Anjatiana Marlyn Ravoatrarilandy
#9 Jerron Jones Joubert
#11 Renick Esther
#14 Peter Gbenda Adesina
#15 Razafitsalama Jean Jules
#18 Nirina Angericot Ramiariniandry
#20 Lenny Barbe
#21 Vince Fred
#27 Ricko Julius
Substitutes:
#2 Fabio Lemiel
#8 Chris Uranie
#10 Duane Ange Jude Soomery
#16 Ervais Antoine Cesar
#17 Shanon Stravens
#19 Craig Antonio Cedras
#23 Kenny Demienn Fred
