Resilient MFM ends Customs’ unbeaten streak to secure final spot
By Tosin Omojola
The Nigeria Customs Service Women’s Basketball team, defending champions, couldn’t hold on to their lead, falling to archrivals Mountain of Fire Ministries (MFM) in a 57-53 upset at the SKD Gymnasium in Paynesville, Liberia.
Entering the game as reigning champions against Nigeria’s titleholders, the Customs team, coached by Abdulrahman Mohammed, started strong, winning the first quarter 10-9.
However, in the second quarter, MFM, led by Coach Ochuko Owolabi, capitalized on Customs’ forced errors. They dominated the quarter, scoring 17 points to Customs’ 11, and went into the halftime break with a 26-21 lead.
The third quarter saw a fierce comeback from the Customs team, coached by Adewale Adeniyi. Determined to regain their lead, they netted 22 points to MFM’s 13, finishing the third quarter ahead 43-39.
The final quarter turned into a thrilling battle. Customs led by six points with just two minutes remaining, but MFM rallied with crucial shots to cut the deficit. With 20 seconds on the clock, Hembam Wandoo hit a critical three-pointer, pushing MFM ahead 54-53, stunning the Customs team. A series of errors by Customs then granted MFM four free throws, from which they scored three points, sealing their 57-53 victory.
With this win, Mountain of Fire Ministries has booked their place in the African Women’s Basketball Finals, scheduled to take place in Dakar, Senegal, later this year.
