Rabiu Abdullahi’s 55th-minute goal secured a 1-0 victory for Bayelsa United over Heartland FC of Owerri in a Matchday 7 encounter of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
The Prosperity Boys bounced back from their midweek disappointment against Bendel Insurance at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Kehinde Malik returned to the starting lineup after weeks sidelined by injury, while forward Foluwa Akpokabowei made his first start of the season.
Abdullahi’s goal came from a well-delivered low cross by Yahaya Ibrahim after Akpokabowei dribbled past Heartland’s defenders to find Yahaya in a perfect position.
Despite a cautious first half, Heartland FC came close on two occasions, with efforts by Elvis Ori and Chijioke Opara thwarted by Bayelsa United goalkeeper, Godgift Elkanah.
Before the halftime break, Tarabina Biwerebo missed a clear chance, with his shot saved by Heartland’s goalkeeper, Chukwuebuka
This victory leaves Bayelsa United with nine points after seven games. They will next face Lobi Stars at the Lafia Township Stadium.
Bayelsa United’s technical adviser, Ladan Bosso, praised the team’s fighting spirit but expressed concerns over missed chances despite creating opportunities.
Heartland FC coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, attributed the loss to a lapse in concentration during the second half but commended his team’s overall performance.
Yellow Cards:
- Christian Nkwo (43rd minute)
- Peters Afolayan (50th minute)
- Foluwa Akpokabowei (90+1 minute)
Substitutions:
- Rabiu Abdullahi → Awual Sadiq (45 mins)
- Bassey John → Obed Junior (60 mins)
- Amedu Goforth → Kehinde Malik (71 mins)
- Hassan Oladimeji → Saro Loveday (90+1 mins)
- Simon Daniel → Jawad Mustapha (90+2 mins)
Starting XI:
Godgift Elkanah, Issa Yusuf, Hassan Oladimeji, Tarabina Biwerebo, Gabriel Biriduba, Jawad Mustapha, Kehinde Malik, Awual Sadiq, Yahaya Ibrahim, Obed Junior, Foluwa Akpokabowei.
Unused Substitutes:
Olisa Emmanuel, Ogundare Arise, Akpos Godbless, Okardi Inikurogha.
