Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-29 04:06:56
Heartland of Owerri is facing a tough season ahead as they continue to struggle in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). Their recent performance in the 22-week-old league games has left fans concerned about the team’s chances of avoiding relegation.
Despite a commendable showing in their previous match against league leaders, Lobi Stars, where they lost 0-1, hopes were high among Heartland supporters for a turnaround in their fortunes. However, their optimism was swiftly dashed as they suffered a humiliating 1-5 defeat at home to Plateau United at the Enyimba Stadium in Aba.
The warning signs were evident from the start as Heartland failed to make an impact on the game, with Plateau United taking the lead in the 14th minute through Olawale Doyeni. Lawrence Agbor doubled the lead in the 20th minute, followed by Emmanuel Nenrot’s goal in the 47th minute, leaving Heartland reeling at 3-0 going into halftime.
Although Heartland showed some fight in the second half, Plateau United continued to dominate and added two more goals through Nenrot and Harrison Ebah in the closing minutes of the game. Heartland managed to pull one back through Onyekachi Okafor in injury time, but it was merely a consolation as the damage had already been done.
The defeat pushed Plateau United up to second place in the league standings with 38 points, while Lobi Stars retained the top spot on 39 points despite their loss to Sunshine Stars. Enugu Rangers climbed to third place with 37 points after defeating Remo Stars 1-0.
In other matches, Sporting Lagos secured a 2-1 victory over Akwa United, Katsina United edged out Kano Pillars 3-2, and the game between Rivers United and Niger Tornadoes was postponed due to the latter’s continental commitments.
The NPFL action continues with Enyimba facing Gombe United, Shooting Stars taking on Bendel Insurance, and Abia Warriors meeting Kwara United in the upcoming matches. Despite the disappointing results for Heartland, there is still hope for a turnaround in their fortunes as they strive to avoid relegation in the remaining games of the season.
