Samuel Agu inspires Heartland win over Pillars, Insurance and Rangers share spoils

By: Wale Mustapha

Heartland FC boosted their survival hopes in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a crucial 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars in their Matchday 32 encounter on Saturday.

The Naze Millionaires, who have been struggling near the relegation zone, desperately needed the win to keep their survival bid alive. Enter Samuel Agu, who delivered an inspired performance by scoring a goal in each half.

Agu opened the scoring just six minutes before the break, giving Heartland a crucial lead.

The defender then sealed the victory with a well-taken free kick in the 77th minute, giving Heartland a commanding 2-0 advantage.

The win moved them to 16th position on the table with 38 points from 32 matches, further distancing them from the relegation zone.

Kano Pillars, despite the defeat, remained in 8th position with 44 points from the same number of games.

In another Matchday 32 fixture, Enugu Rangers held Insurance FC to a goalless draw at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin. The match, which served as a precursor to both teams’ upcoming President Federation Cup Round of 16 clash, saw Insurance FC create more scoring chances.

However, they were unable to convert them into goals, leaving both teams to share the spoils.