Peace Boys steal past fierce northern rival to go four games unbeaten

Posted : 24 March 2025

Eliminated by Rangers International of Enugu in the round of 64 of the ongoing President Federation Cup and held to a draw by Nasarawa United in Kano on Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 30, Kano Pillars arrived in Jos desperate to return to winning ways following a string of favorable results they had previously achieved.

Conversely, since narrowly defeating Abia Warriors on Match Day 29 in Jos, the Peace Boys had gone three games unbeaten, with fixtures tightly packed. A test against fierce northwestern rivals Kano Pillars provided a chance to extend their unbeaten run to four games.

Just three minutes in, Plateau United's Muhammed Umar was dangerously sandwiched by Pillars' Habibu Yakubu, forcing the diminutive midfielder to exit the pitch due to excruciating pain.

Chances were few but deadly, with the visitors drawing first blood after 30 minutes through a Jerry Alex conversion. This came after several exchanges failed to find the back of the net, including a near opening goal for Pillars, cleared off the line by Anthony Nwadioha ten minutes later, as well as Daniel Itodo's close shave attempt and Samuel Pam's sitter in the 13th and 32nd minutes, respectively.

The score remained 0-1 in favor of Kano Pillars heading into the break.

The Peace Boys returned in the second half with competitive spirit, seeing Samuel Pam score a sublime equalizer from Daniel Itodo's trademark supply after 75 minutes, just as he did in last season's fixture against Sai Masu Gida. Saka Gafar's heartbreaking finish, following Sunday Anthony's exquisite pass, put him on the scoresheet for the reverse fixture once again, sending the fans into raptures.

Kano Pillars' chief coach, Ahmed Garba Yaro, admitted the presence of errors in football, which contributed to the two goals Sai Masu Gida conceded, but he lauded the effort of his players, especially in such a power-packed encounter.

Plateau United's Mbwas Mangut expressed satisfaction with his team's remarkable response after going down 0-1 in the first half but called on the team to stay focused for the crucial assignments ahead.

Three games held between Match Day 30's Day 1 and Day 2 produced three home wins, with seven more fixtures set to be decided on the match day.

Despite a very tough season, the raving fan base and a squad showing increased willingness to avoid relegation remain the most instructive aspects of the Peace Boys' season. It remains to be seen where this will lead, with eight games to go.

Next up is a trip to Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, for the Peace Boys on Match Day 31.

Peace Boys steal past fierce northern rival to go four games unbeaten

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