NPFL: Heartland FC beat Shooting Stars on Owerri return

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

Relegation-threatened Heartland FC secured a crucial 1-0 victory against in-form Shooting Stars in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Friday.

The match marked Heartland’s return to their home ground after being given the nod to host their remaining fixtures. Divine Ukadike emerged as the hero for the Naze Millionaires, netting a decisive first-half free-kick that proved to be the difference between the two sides.

In the 24th minute, Ukadike beautifully curled a direct free-kick beyond the reach of Shooting Stars Sports Club goalkeeper Okemute Odah, giving the hosts a vital lead.

Odah displayed his prowess in the 42nd minute by deflecting another dangerous effort from Ukadike, ensuring the score remained 1-0 going into halftime.

Heartland FC’s goalkeeper, Dalingtin Ovunda, also made a crucial save in additional time of the first half, denying Monday Gideon’s on-target attempt to maintain his team’s advantage.

The victory marked a return to winning ways for Heartland FC after their previous 1-0 loss to Enyimba, boosting their hopes of survival in the league. Despite the win, they currently sit in the 19th position with 29 points from 31 games.

Shooting Stars, on the other hand, maintained their fifth position in the league standings with 49 points, having played the same number of matches as Heartland.

As the NPFL action continues, fans can look forward to more excitement with a match scheduled for Saturday and eight other games set to take place on Sunday in Matchday 31.