Abdullahi Maikaba, the head coach of the Kano Pillars, voiced his frustration with the officiating after his team narrowly lost 1-0 to the Abia Warriors in a gripping NPFL encounter.

The Sai Masu Gida suffered their ninth league defeat as Daniel Ijeh’s late 78th-minute strike sealed victory for the Abia side at the General Sani Abacha Stadium, Footballrover reports.

Abia Warriors’ victory was the first away win in 18 NPFL away matches for the Umuahia-based side. It was also their first ever away win at Kano Pillars.

It was indeed a shocking defeat for the home team, as the Warriors snatched the victory and all three points at the end of the final whistle.

The Sai Masu Gida came out in their numbers as usual to support their team Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium.????#NPFLLive#NPFL24 pic.twitter.com/sji3tzIY5z

— NPFLLive (@NPFL_Live) March 5, 2024

Maikaba, reflecting on the match, expressed his belief that his team was unlucky and missed several scoring opportunities against the Ochendo Boys.

“We squandered a lot of scoring chances. Abia Warriors were not supposed to carry the day,” he lamented.

The coach also criticised the officiating, particularly contesting the decision that led to the crucial corner kick resulting in the Abia Warriors’ goal.

“In a nutshell, I’m not satisfied with the officiating,” the coach lamented.

Despite the disappointing loss, Pillars maintain a competitive position in the NPFL standings, currently occupying sixth place with 36 points, just six points behind league leaders Lobi Stars.

Incredible win for Abia Warriors at Kano Pillars, beautiful moment(s) we live for in the NPFL.

Sporting Lagos with an away point at Doma United.

Akwa United fighting for survival with an important win at home against Enyimba.

Matchday 23 has served us premium drama.

Gombe… pic.twitter.com/TYcYlQwxNE

— Adepoju Tobi Samuel ???????? (@OgaNlaMedia) March 4, 2024

Looking ahead, Kano Pillars are to prepare for their next fixture against Rivers United in Port Harcourt on Saturday.

With hopes of bouncing back, the Kano Boys are determined to return to winning ways and reignite their campaign in the Nigerian Premier Football League.

Like this post?
We’d be delighted to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the box below!