Kano Pillars returned to winning ways on Monday, ending a seven-match winless streak with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Ikorodu City in their NPFL Matchday 14 fixture at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Rabiu Ali gave the Sai Masu Gida a dream start just two minutes into the encounter, rising to head home Abdullahi Ali’s precise cross for his fourth goal of the season. The hosts doubled their lead in the 30th minute when Suleiman Idris struck a superb free kick from 30 yards, leaving the Ikorodu City goalkeeper with no chance.
Ikorodu City nearly halved the deficit three minutes later when Joseph Arumala connected with a Folarin free kick, but his header rattled the crossbar before the rebound was saved.
The Oga Boys eventually pulled one back on the stroke of halftime, as Arumala rose highest to head in Folarin’s corner at the back post, making it 2–1 going into the break.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Kano Pillars held on to secure maximum points. The victory, however, was not enough to lift them off the bottom of the NPFL table, while Ikorodu City remain in second place.
Uche Dozie