Kano Pillars move second after narrow Ranchers Bees win

Kano Pillars moved up to second in the NPFL after Yahaya Ibrahim’s penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ranchers Bees at Sani Abacha Stadium.

The decisive moment came in the 75th minute, 12 minutes after Ranchers Bees were reduced to 10 men when Mohammed Rabiu Zulkifilu was sent off.

The result gave Kano Pillars 22 points from 13 matches, leaving them two points behind leaders Enugu Rangers.

Speaking after Saturday’s Matchday 13 fixture, Kano Pillars first assistant coach Kamil Folarin praised his players for remaining committed to their approach in a match shaped by the rivalry between the two sides.

“Thank you very much. It was a good game for us because we had a clear plan going into the match. We understood how important this fixture was, especially considering its history as a local derby and the renewed rivalry between both sides. We stuck to our game plan, and thankfully, it worked for us. We thank God for the result.”

The victory extended Kano Pillars’ unbeaten home run to five matches and maintained their strong position near the top of the table.

Folarin’s side will now turn their attention to their next league assignment, which will take them to Lagos to face Ikorodu City.

Ranchers Bees remain 17th in the NPFL standings on 12 points and will seek a response in their next fixture.