NPFL Roundup: Rivers United close in on title, Heartland earn vital win
League Leaders Rivers United held to a draw by Enugu Rangers on Saturday, the match ended 0-0. But despite the draw, Rivers United still maintain their 10 points gap ahead of Plateau united.
The League Leaders impressive form continues in the Nigeria professional League (NPFL) as they sit comfortably on top of the standing.
Stanley Eguma and his Rivers United side now need just five points to clinch the title this term following the draw at the Awka Township Stadium.
The match would have swung in any direction especially at the early and closing stages.
League’s top scorer Chijioke Akuneto came close to netting his 17th goal of the season for the Port Harcourt side but watched as his attempt came off the post in the early moments.
At the death, Rivers United goalkeeper Darlington Ovunda produced a big save to keep out Chidiebere Nwobodo’s effort to ensure Rangers did not take the full points.
The share of points in Awka puts Rivers United within touching distance of their first title since their name change from Dolphins FC and Sharks FC in 2016.
Rivers United currently lead the chasing pack in the division by 11 points though six matches are on offer on Sunday including second-placed Plateau United playing hosts to Gombe United.
Not far from Awka, Heartland had to grind out a 1-0 win over Katsina United to put life into their race for survival.
A second half goal from the spot proved sufficient for Heartland to take the full points and move into 17th place with 40 points.
Former champions Kano Pillars lost their 15th match of the season in 2-3 defeat at Abia Warriors which puts them in a dire position of being relegated for the first time in 23 years.
Warriors got their goals from Paul Samson, Emmanuel Onu and Godwin Obaje. Despite Rabiu Ali’s best attempt of two assists for Ifeanyi Kelvin Eze and Auwalu Ali Malam to score, Pillars still faltered and that leaves them in the bottom-four.
Niger Tornadoes put themselves in a good position in their bid for survival with a 1-0 over Nasarawa United. Jimmy Abdul scored the winner with 20 minutes to time.
