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Soccer News of Monday, 19 July 2021

Source: www.mynigeria.com

NPFL: Heartland FC beat Enugu Rangers in Oriental derby

Heartland FC beat Enugu Rangers in the Oriental derby Heartland FC beat Enugu Rangers in the Oriental derby

Heartland FC dented the chances of rivals, Rangers International of Enugu playing continental football next season after a 2-1 victory in the Oriental Derby.

Rangers lost that fixture at the Dan Ayiam Stadium on a day they needed to win to remain in contention for CAF Confederation Cup tickets.

The Flying Antelopes fell behind inside the opening 10 minutes, no thanks to bad defending that allowed Chijioke Mbaoma to Nana Bonsu from close range, according to Brila.net.

The youngster lifted the ball beyond goalie Nana Bonsu for his first senior goal for Heartland after a good lob from midfield by Austine Opara which catches Rangers defence off-guard.

In the 19 minute, Rangers created good chance to equalise after Esor Archibong, Tope Olusesi and Ibrahim Olawoyin combined beautifully to create panic in Heartland goal area but Austine Opara and Kenneth Ikwugbado work together to clear the ball out.

Rangers however got back on level terms five minutes later, after substitute Elijah Ani capitalized on the defensive mix-up in Heartland backline and retrieve the ball before dribbling goalkeeper Chijioke Ejiogu for the equalizer.

The equalizer didn’t last long as the hosts regained theirs 37 minutes later. This time Chijioke Akuneto powered a power strike past goalkeeper Nana Bonsu after the goalie saves the initial effort from Bright Onyedikachi, reports Brila.net.

There was no further goal in the game as Heartland FC defended their lead until the end. With the victory, Heartland remain 12th on log with 44 points from 33 games, while Rangers remain seventh with 52 points, and six points below Kano Pillars who occupies third on the table.