Kwara United share spoils with Shooting Stars in Ilorin

Kwara United was forced to a goalless draw on Sunday in the Matchday 14 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium in Ilorin.

The Harmony Boys began brightly, applying consistent pressure with Johnmark Aule and Ini Emmanuel unsettling the defence of the Oluyole Warriors. However, the 3SC backline stood firm to deny the hosts any early breakthrough.

Kwara United continued the search for a goal, but Junior Aimufua’s effort in the 37th minute could not be converted.

The visitors returned from the break more aggressive and determined, but the hosts’ defensive setup remained solid, with goalkeeper Nurudeen Badmus producing crucial saves during tense moments.

Arinze Ogbonna came close to breaking the deadlock when his effort rattled the crossbar, and his goal-bound header was cleared by a 3SC defender. Alao Mohammed also missed an opportunity to put Kwara United ahead.

Badmus’ heroics in the closing stages ensured the Harmony Boys secured a point, earning him the Cyteck Man of the Match award, sponsored by Engr. Ahmed Olaide and Ambassador Yahaya Seriki MOTM sponsored by Coach Usman Biffo.

Speaking to journalists after the match, Head Coach Ashifat Suleiman said his side was unlucky not to have secured maximum points, adding that the physical approach of Shooting Stars disrupted their rhythm.

“3SC played very aggressive and physical football. It affected them too, they lost two of their players to injury in the first half with that physicality . We’ll go back, regroup, and make up for the lost points,” he stated.

Kwara United now sits 11th on the log with 18 points from 14 matches and will next weekend play Barau in Kano.