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Soccer News of Monday, 12 July 2021

Source: www.mynigeria.com

Sunshine Stars beat Kano Pillars to dent title hopes

Sunshine Stars beat Kano Pillars on Akure Sunshine Stars beat Kano Pillars on Akure

The chances of Kano Pillars being crowned champions of the 2020-2021 Nigeria professional football league season was dealt a heavy blow as they were beaten by a rejuvenated Sunshine Stars in Akure on Sunday, July 11.

Sunshine Stars defeated their rival by a lone goal after hosting them at the Ondo State Sports Complex.

Coach Deji Ayeni maintained the side that delivered at Heartland as the lads got off to a blistering start.

Babatunde Bello was denied a free-kick by Kano Pillars goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso in the 26th minute, Brila.net said.

Ayeleso was called into action again on the 40th minute when he saved Joshua Enaholo saved from Ifegwu Ojuwkwu to the encounter into the break goalless.

Kano Pillars failed to find their rhythm in the second half, unlike Sunshine Stars who resumed with urgency and tenacity.

Leading scorer Sadeeq Yusuf finally grabbed the decisive goal in the 59th minute, when he slotted a low drive past the Sai Masu-Gida’ goalkeeper.

Seven minutes later, Ajani Ibrahim combined well with Yusuf for a chance to double the lead but he went down under a challenge, with the referee unmoved about his penalty appeal.

The Akure landlords however strengthened their hope of beating the drop as they move on to 36 points from 32, Brila.net said.

As for Kano Pillars, the defeat was a massive setback to their hope of catching up with Akwa United at the top of the table.

The result leaves them in the fourth position with five points adrift the Promise Keepers.