Ifeanyi Matthew’s super strike was not enough for Kano Pillars to beat hosts Niger Tornadoes, who fought back to win 2-1 in continuation of the Nigeria league on Thursday.
Super Eagles midfielder Matthew fired home in the 18th minute from 28 yards to give Pillars the lead. However, Tornadoes then drew level through Adebayo Abiodun in the 40th minute when he hit target from close range.
Bolaji Adeyemo then grabbed the winning goal for Tornadoes in the 47th minute off a goalmouth melee.
Thereafter, Tornadoes took control especially with the introduction of Joseph David, who was making his professional debut for the Minna side as they had upperhand on several occasions to score the third goal, but they were very wasteful, with the main culprit being Ismaila Gata, the leading goalscorer of the club with nine goals this season.
The introduction of Prince Aggreh, Omo Johnson and Mannir Ubale by Kano Pillars coach, Mohammed Baba Ganaru, did not yield any positive result as Niger Tornadoes got the three points at the expense of their more illustrious opponents.
Speaking to the www.npfl.ng after the game, Biffo said that it was a wonderful game to get the maximum points against Kano Pillars, noting that his boys gave Pillars too much respect in the frist half and he was very glad that they responded to his tactical formation in the second half that brought about the desired victory.
"I think I really have to commend my boys for winning the game. They gave Kano Pillars too much respect in the first half, but I am glad that everything turned around for our good in the second half," Biffo said.
Baba Ganaru, who was of the firm opinion that Pillars had no business losing the game, as he insisted that his boys were in control of the game especially in the first half, but played to the gallery, instead of killing off their opponents.
"We had the game under our control. We had no business losing this encounter against Tornadoes. I am not happy at all with my players as they played to the gallery in the first half and we paid for dearly for it," Baba Ganaru said with a sad tone.
Pillars will be heading to Jos for their Match Day 19 game against Plateau United, while Niger Tornadoes will be guests of FC Ifeanyiubah at Nnewi this weekend.
