A double of Peter Odemwingie hands Madura United a 3-1 win over rivals Persib Bandung in the Indonesian Liga 1 on Sunday.
The Nigerian striker took the lead for Madura at the penalty spot in the 21st minute after Greg Nwokolo was brought down in the opponent’s penalty area.
He completed his brace in the 66th minute from the overwhelming counter-attack at speed of Madura to extend the lead. Greg Nwokolo powered in the third few minutes away from full time to secure a win for the East Javan club.
The significant performance of Odemwingie did not only help Persib win over rivals but also outshined himself in the personal battle with Michael Essien, who had a goal and an assist ruled out by controversial refereeing decisions.
Two Persib goals scored by Rafael Maitimo and Essien in the first half were disallowed by the official. The referee also canceled Maitimo’s goal for offside even though replays showed otherwise.
Madura United are now second in the table with 25 points, a point behind league leaders Persatuan Sepakbola Makassar.