Kano Pillars’ 12-year run of unbeaten matches in the Glo Premier League came to a disappointing end on Sunday after a 1-2 loss to Nasarawa United.
In his first game against the Solid Miners since his departure from the side in the middle of the ongoing campaign, coach Mohammed Baba Ganaru failed to inspire the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions to success in front on their home crowd.
The defeat was the second in quick succession for Pillars, who moved down to sixth position with 37 points from 25 games- nine points shy of table-topping Sunshine Stars.
Ex-Pillars forward Mannir Ubale opened scoring for the visitors in the 12th minute from Eugene Obi’s assist. Ubale turned provider four minutes later, setting up Bature Yaro for Nasarawa’s second.
A rampant Nasarawa side could have gone 3-0 up before the half-hour mark had Esosa Igbinoba’s free-kick not come off the woodwork on 27 minutes and aside a Rabiu Ali shot from inside the box, Pillars were short of firepower on the attacking third in the first half.
Midfielder Ali eventually reduced Pillars’ deficit immediately after the restart but every effort to salvage a draw proved abortive as Nasarawa United claimed rare three points in the Pyramid City.
The win helped Nasarawa move up to eighth spot in the table on 36 points.
Pillars last lost a home league match against Julius Berger in 2003.
Glo Premier League Match Day 25
Kano Pillars 1-2 Nasarawa Utd
Bayelsa Utd 0-1 Sharks
Lobi Stars 1-0 FC Ifeanyiubah
Akwa Utd 2-2 Giwa FC
Rangers 1-1 Dolphins
Sunshine Stars 5-0 El-Kanemi
Warri Wolves 1-0 Wikki
Abia Warriors 1-0 Heartland
Kwara Utd 1-0 Shooting Stars
