NPFL: Rivers United end the year on top as Kano Pillars climb out of drop zone
Rivers United closed out the NPFL season on a high, finishing the year top of the league table after a narrow home victory over Rangers International, while Kano Pillars boosted their survival hopes with a commanding win that lifted them out of the relegation zone in their match day 19 fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
At the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Boluwaji Sholumade’s second-half strike proved decisive as Rivers United edged Rangers 1–0. The forward found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute, a result that ensured Rivers United maintained their grip on first place heading into the new year.
Kano Pillars delivered one of the standout performances of the day, sweeping aside Nasarawa United 3–0. Mustapha Umar opened the scoring in the 23rd minute before second-half goals from Chiedozie Okorie (68’) and Jibrin Mustapha (72’) sealed a comprehensive victory that saw Pillars climb out of the relegation places.
In Ozoro, Warri Wolves and Wikki Tourists played out an entertaining 2–2 draw. Imamu Bala put Wikki ahead in the 37th minute before Ezekiel Oroh equalised early in the second half. Wolves briefly turned the game around through Seth Mayi on 56 minutes, but Bala struck again in the 76th minute to earn Wikki a share of the points.
Niger Tornadoes claimed a 2–0 victory over Barau FC, with Abdulaziz Dalhatu opening the scoring in the 35th minute. The points were sealed deep into stoppage time when Rickson Mendos added a second to cap a solid home display.
Katsina United earned a 1–0 away win at Kun Khalifat thanks to Richard Christopher’s 39th-minute strike.
El-Kanemi Warriors snatched a narrow 1–0 victory at Bayelsa United, with Sadiq Mohammed scoring just before halftime.
Ikorodu City beat reigning champions, Remo Stars 1–0 as Odinaka Alfred unleashed a spectacular long-range effort in the 40th minute, firing past goalkeeper Alladoum.
Uche Dozie
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