NPFL resumes as Heartland hold Pillars; Enyimba defeat 3SC
The second stanza of the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season kicked off yesterday with two matchday 20 fixtures played at the Enyimba Stadium, Aba yesterday.
In the first game, Heartland FC held visiting Kano Pillars to a 1-1 draw.
The ‘Naze Millionaires’ as Heartland is known have been in poor form since the return of Christian Obi as coach. However, they started this game on a solid note but as it has been in previous games, they lost concentration as Kano Pillars through enterprising Mustapha Ibrahim opened the scoring in the 29th minute.
Faced with the prospect of another loss, Heartland put in all the efforts to get back in the game and were given a lifeline when Pillars goalkeeper Muhammad Galadima was sent off for retailation.
With a man advantage, Heartland got the much needed goal in the 90th minute through Malachi Ohawume to ensure the points are shared. Pillars remain fourth with 33 points while Heartland moved to 18th spot with 18 points.
In the other game, Enyimba moved to third position on the table on 35 points after a hardfought
victory against 3SC at the Enyimba international stadium, Aba.
The hosts looking to capitalise on home advantage with their strong attack took the game to their visitors as they controlled the early proceeedings of the game.
With few goal scoring chances, the away team nearly went in front in the 40th minute but Alex Aghahowa’s efforts came off the post which was a relief for the champions.
Enyimba’s top scorer, Chijioke Mbaoma however made their visitors rue the missed goal
scoring chance as he puts the ‘People’s Elephant’ in-front with a poachers finish just before half-time. He had directed Eze Ekwutoziam’s cross past the visiting goalkeeper, Okiemute Odah.
Upon resumption of second half, the hosts continued to pile more pressure but Okemute was alive to his responsibilities as he kept the ‘Oluyole Warriors’ in the game with saves. Efforts to increase the lead failed as Enyimba bagged all three points while 3SC return to Ibadan empty. They are 20th on the log
with 26 points.
Meanwhile, action continues today as Sunshine Stars hosts Kwara United just as Bayelsa United welcome Gombe United. Akwa United will take a trip to Enugu Rangers just as Rivers United trades tackles with Doma United. It will clash of the giants as Plateau United battle Lobi Stars just as Remo Stars will be guests to Abia Warriors. Sporting Lagos will seek to continue their resurgence when Bendel Insurance come visiting while Katsina United meet Niger Tornadoes.