By Etienne Mainimo Mengnjo
The first day of play in the Play Offs Down began on a stalemate for two former champions, PWD of Bamenda and UMS of Loum at the Yaounde Omnisport Stadium.
In the first period of the game, PWD of Bamenda exhibited exceptional tactical prowess and seized control of the game from the outset. Febe Fritz Gilles set the tone with a powerful strike early on, testing the reflexes of UMS goalkeeper Steven Tanon, who managed to parry the ball away for a corner, denying PWD an early lead.
In a moment of brilliance, Konrad Nfanseu outwitted the PWD goalkeeper, Kadad Ning, finding the back of the net to put the coastal club in the lead 1-0 in the 22nd minute. The momentum continued for UMS as Mathias Malep showcased his individual skill with a fascinating solo run in the box, setting up Achille Fokem for a clinical finish, extending UMS’s lead to 2-0 few minutes later.
Despite UMS’s dominance, PWD showed resilience and determination, creating chances to narrow the deficit before halftime. However, Malep’s struggles to convert an opportunity after a solo effort by Fokem.
In the second half, PWD maintained their attacking intent, launching incisive moves into the UMS defense. Their efforts paid off in the 62nd minute when Terence Ambe Ngufor expertly converted a free kick, breathing new life into the match and reducing the score line for PWD.
With the game finely poised, PWD intensified their offensive pressure, leading to a well-deserved equalizer in the 71st minute as Eric Abanke capitalized on a sublime pass from Brilant Tanwie to level the score at 2-2.
As the clock ticked down, PWD continued to push forward, probing the UMS defense for a winning goal. However, UMS stood firm, thwarting PWD’s attacks thereby securing a hard-earned point in a 2-2 draw.
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