NPFL 25: Usman Abdallah Pledges To Address Kano Pillars' Defensive Lapses

NPFL 25: Usman Abdallah Pledges To Address Kano Pillars' Defensive Lapses

Precious Oham

Usman Abdallah of Kano Pillars has pledged to address his side's defensive lapses after the pulsating 2-2 draw with Lobi Stars, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Abdallah orchestrated a tactical turnaround in the second half of their 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) away clash against Lobi Stars, which ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw on Saturday, 23rd November 2024, at the Lafia City Stadium.

The Sai Masu Gida found themselves trailing 2-0 within the opening 14 minutes as Lobi Stars struck twice through Ahmadu Liman in the 7th minute and Ossy Martins in the 14th minute.

The first half ended with Pillars in a precarious position, desperately needing inspiration.

The breakthrough came in the 76th minute when Rabiu Ali unleashed a stunning 45-yard free kick that left Lobi Stars goalkeeper Orya Joseph helpless.

 Just a minute later, in the 77th minute, Mustapha Umar levelled the scores.

Ahmed Musa's powerful shot was parried by the goalkeeper, but Umar pounced on the rebound to score his second goal of the season.

During the post-match press conference, an animated Abdallah praised his players' resilience, particularly in the second half, but emphasized the need to address defensive lapses.

 "We cannot continue this way. Together with my assistants, we will sit down and find ways to address this issue. We have been the highest-scoring team in the league, so there is no reason why we should keep conceding silly goals. It’s unacceptable, and everyone must take responsibility from now on.

"We need to identify a no-nonsense central defender during the midseason transfer window, whether from Nigeria, Niger Republic, or any other country, who can come in and strengthen the team."

The result leaves the Pyramid City side in 6th position on the log with 19 points, four points adrift of league leaders Remo Stars, who have a game in hand.