Shooting Stars SC secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars on Saturday, with goals from Joshua Akpan (43’) and Adam Mustapha (77’) ensuring all three points for the Ibadan-based team. The win elevated Shooting Stars to fourth place on the NPFL table with 27 points.

Despite dominating possession and creating several chances in the first half, Kano Pillars failed to convert their opportunities, allowing Shooting Stars to capitalize on their limited chances. Akpan’s late first-half strike and Mustapha’s second-half goal proved decisive in the tightly contested match.

Meanwhile, Lobi Stars returned to winning form with a 1-0 triumph over Plateau United at the Lafia City Stadium. The narrow victory lifted Lobi Stars out of the relegation zone, providing a significant morale boost as they aim to turn their season around.

Both victories mark pivotal moments for the two clubs as they push to achieve their respective season objectives.

Meanwhile, Kano Pillars Coach Sheriff Abdallah has Praised his boys despite the loss to Shooting Stars

Sherif Abdallah, commended his team’s effort despite their 2-0 defeat to Shooting Stars in an NPFL Matchday 17 fixture at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan on Saturday.

Fielding a depleted squad due to injuries, national team call-ups, and suspensions of key players like Ahmed Musa, Shehu Abdullahi, Rabiu Ali, and Habib Yakub, Abdallah relied on a youthful lineup, with several players making their NPFL debuts.

“I’m happy with the performance of the players. These are young boys, and most of them were playing their first NPFL match. They gave their best,” Abdallah said after the match.

Acknowledging Shooting Stars’ performance, Abdallah congratulated the hosts, stating:
“3SC deserved to win; they were impressive today, especially in the second half. Congratulations to them for a deserved victory.”

The loss drops Kano Pillars to 8th place on the league table with 22 points from 17 matches. However, Abdallah remains optimistic:
“We will go back home and manage to recover the lost points.”

The coach’s focus now shifts to rebuilding his team and regaining form as the season progresses.