NPFL 24 Roundup: Heartland Picks First Win, As Sunshine Stars Claim Bragging Rights Over 3SC

NPFL 24 Roundup: Heartland Picks First Win, As Sunshine Stars Claim Bragging Rights Over 3SC

Precious Oham

Heartland FC picked its first victory in the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League after defeating Bendel Insurance by a lone goal in Owerri, BSNSports.com.ng reports. 

The Naze Millionaires, who have endured a torrid start to the campaign overcame Bendel Insurance in a Match Day 12 fixture courtesy of a 51st minute strike by Austin Osayande.

In the South-West Derby in Akure, Sunshine Stars claimed the bragging rights over Shooting Stars Club of Ibadan by a slim one-nil victory. 

A fantastic finish in the 73rd minutes from Moses Omodumueke gave the Owena Whales the maximum points in a keenly contested derby.

Elsewhere, a 6th minute volley from Mustapha Umar of Kano Pillars condemned Akwa United to their fifth defeat of the season after 12 games at the Sani Abacha Stadium. 

Kingdom Osayi recorded his 10th clean sheet of the season as Doma United held Kwara United to a goalless draw in Ilorin while the game between Abia Warriors and Sporting Lagos ended one apiece in Umuahia. 

Olawale Doyeni's 90th minute winning goal gave Plateau United the maximum points against his former side, Rangers Int'l. Moses Adikwu opened the scoring for the Jos-based side in the 3rd minute before Chidiebere Nwobodo equalised in the 16th minute. 

In the other matches, Remo Stars picked a point on the road against Niger Tornadoes to maintain their lead as table-toppers while Lobi Stars defeated Gombe United by a lone goal in Lafia.