I think those Enyimba guys just need some financial motivation. They are being owed some mighty large sums of money.
I think Dolphins will be there or thereabout at the end of the season. They are picking up crucial points at home and also away. This win over Crown is their 2nd away win this season

Dolphin, Kwara, Sunshine and K.Pillars are likely to be the top 4 teams at the end of the season.

Enyimba had better wake up from their slumber before it's too late o

Lol, The woman Referee spoilt the day for my team,Her officiating was so bad!!!

Crown for Continental!!!

Amaechi rewards victorious Sharks

Rivers’ State governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi on Tuesday kept his promise after he gave away brand new cars and cash to Sharks FC players and coaching crew following their victorious outing in the revamp WAFU Cup which they won on Sunday beating Casa Sports of Senegal 1-0 in Lome, Togo.

A sum of N500, 000 was given to each player totaling N11million and a car, the technical crew members and other officials were rewarded with a cash of one million naira each ,while the club’s Supporters Club got N500, 000.

NationSport also gathered that the governor who didn’t make specific the brand of cars, said the automobile will soon be made available to them in due time.

Reacting after the grand reception held in their honour, spokesperson of the team, Confidence Idaa said, “It was the best X-mas gift the players and officials of got as they thanked the governor for his kind gesture with a promise to win more silver ware for the state.

“We’ll also not let this WAFU Cup feat get into our heads rather it will serve as a morale- booster for us when we begin our quest in the MTN Premier

League as we host Enyimba on New Year day or on Wednesday January 5th.

Recall that this is the first major silver ware they club has won after emerging runners-up and bronze medalist in the (FA Cup) now Federation Cup.

http://thenationonlineng.net/web3/football-golf-boxing/23082.html

[center]Ezeji’s giant strides[/center]

Success at club level is determined by the number of trophies in a club’s cabinet. For Sharks (one of Nigeria’s oldest clubs), it has been a long wait since 1972, when the club was formed.
Sharks have never won the league. Three attempts in the Fa cup (1979, 2003 and 2009) were fruitless, but the story changed in 2010.
SuperSport’s Ojeikere Aikhoje profiles the exciting career of legendary NPL star, Victor Ezeji (pictured), whose goal turned Sharks from perennial under-achievers to Wafu champions.
Every club has its talisman. Experienced forward, Ezeji occupies that position at Sharks. This explains why the club fought rivals, Enugu Rangers; to keep him this term.

Today, the Wafu victory has justified that action as the importance of Ezeji to Sharks cannot be over-emphasised.
Ezeji clearly deserves a place in the Nigeria Premier League Hall of Fame whenever it is inaugurated.
The former Super Eagles fringe player has consistently excelled at all his previous clubs in the country. Ezeji played for defunct Eagle Cement, Dolphins, Enyimba and Sharks with a stint in-between at top Tunisian side, Club African.
He remains one of the most decorated NPL players in recent years with success in the League, FA cup and individual awards.

A famous transfer to Rangers was constantly foiled by the Sharks hierarchy to ensure Ezeji’s experience propels the club to glory.
Although the forward expressed interest in the Rangers deal, he had to remain to lead a gang of youngsters into the sub-regional competition dominated by top Nigerian teams like defunct NNB, Ranchers Bees, Bendel Insurance and Shooting Stars Sports Club.

Two other Nigerian teams; Niger Tornadoes and Lobi Stars failed to make an impact in the competition.
On the eve of the Wafu cup final phase in the Togolese capital, Lome, club scribe, Cyril Wite defended the decision to prevent Ezeji’s transfer to Rangers.

“Ezeji is one of the players registered for the new season. He has played a key role in our Wafu Cup campaign and we believe his experience will be an advantage when the season begins,” he said to SuperSport.com
As expected, Ezeji who scored some of the goals in previous matches hit target against Guinea’s Horoya in the semi-finals and fired the all-important goal that put the club’s name in the history books.
His decision to stay with Sharks for the Wafu cup has yielded the desired dividends.

Rivers state governor, Rotimi Ameachi promptly rewarded each player with a car and N500, 000 for their hard work.
The forward told SuperSport.com that the Wafu cup feat has made him the happiest man on earth.
“I have won trophies at all my former clubs in Nigeria and even Tunisia, except Sharks.
“The only reason that made me return to Sharks was because the club was yet to win a trophy. I’m a fulfilled player now because the story is different. Sharks can now boast of a trophy,” Ezeji added.

Honours

The forward remains one of the few Nigerian League stars to have won laurels at every club he has played for.
Ezeji won the league at defunct Eagle Cement, but announced his arrival in the Nigerian scene during his first sojourn at Sharks. Although Sharks ended the season without any title, Ezeji scored 16 goals to emerge joint top-scorer with Joetex Frimpong.
Aba Millionaires, Enyimba, eventually dragged both players to the club in 2003 to boost its Caf champions league campaign. It was a good year for the forward and his pal, Frimpong, as Enyimba won the elusive Caf champions league and the domestic league.
However, his romance with Enyimba lasted for only one season and he returned to Port-Harcourt and signed for Dolphins, which bought the franchise of his first team, Eagle Cement.
Ezeji led Dolphins to success in the 2004 Coca-Cola FA Cup (now Federation Cup).
He was there again when Dolphins defied a heavy down-pour to defeat Bendel Insurance on penalties to win the Coca-Cola FA Cup again in 2006. His impressive performance in the competition earned him the ‘Most Valuable Player’ award.
This was after Dolphins had won the Globacom Premier League and emerged as double champions in Nigeria.
Dolphins successfully defended the title in 2007 with Ezeji as the club’s talisman. It was the second time the club would triumph over Rangers in the Coca-Cola FA Cup. .

Career Goals

Ezeji remains one of the highest goal scorers in the history of the league.
He has remained consistent on the chart since 2002 when he emerged joint scorer with 16 goals.
The former Nigerian international holds the record of being the only player to have scored four goals in a single match since the inception of the Premier League in Nigeria.
On April 4, 2009, the forward tore the defence of Wikki Tourists to shreds and made the defenders look like a bunch of tourists at the Liberation Stadium. Fresh from his stint at Tunisia’s Club Africain, Ezeji scored in the 13th, 32nd, 43rd and 73rd minutes to set a Nigerian record.
Last season, he was the leading scorer in Sharks with 12 goals. His tally included a hat-trick as Sharks battered Ranch Bees 4-0.
This term, he has scored twice.
Tunisia
His stint at Club Africain was eventful as he helped the club win the Tunisian league after 12 years under the shadows of the more established trio of Esperance Sportif, Etoile du Sahel and Club Sportive Sfaxien.

Technique

Ezeji’s training as an accountant has boosted his technique.
He’s calculative in the box. Call him a fox-in-the-box striker and you won’t be wrong.

Comportment

The forward’s comportment on-and-off the field clearly underscores his position as one of the few graduates in the Nigeria Premier League.
He is a testimony to the fact that football and education can go together with a degree in Accountancy from the respected University of Port-Harcourt. Perhaps this explains why he remains vocal when it comes to the welfare of footballers in the country.
Ezeji is clearly a role model.

The Name

For those who believe in the importance of names, it’s obvious that his name has worked for him. Victor has achieved giant strides from several victories at home and abroad.
Marriage
The forward is happily married with kids.

http://naijaligue..com/

U guys should free my Enyimba. We're just going thru a dip in form ask Chelsea.

NPL to introduce doping tests

Doping tests will soon be introduced for Nigeria Premier League players in a bid to ensure the game is free from drugs. Acting Executive Secretary of the NPL, Tunji Babalola revealed this to SuperSport.com on Wednesday.

There has been no dope test in Nigeria since professional football was introduced in 1990 and the situation has remained the same with the advent of the Premier League.

“We have nothing like that now, but it’s something we want to introduce this season. The NPL is working on it,” Babalola said to SuperSport.com.

Interestingly, NPL’s joint_leading scorer, Ukeyima Akombo, who has played in Sweden and Finland, supports the initiative.
“It’s a welcome development. If we want the league to be truly professional, the NPL must introduce everything that obtains in Europe and the drug test is inclusive.

“It’s usually done after matches in Europe, but sometimes the officials can give you a surprise at training sessions. You just have to comply with the instructions or face heavy sanctions,” Akombo told SuperSport.com on Wednesday.

Doping tests already exists in South Africa’s Premier Soccer League, but will be introduced in the Egyptian Premier League from the second half of the season.

http://www.vanguardngr.com/2011/01/npl-to-introduce-doping-tests/

Technique

Ezeji’s training as an accountant has boosted his technique.
He’s calculative in the box. Call him a fox-in-the-box striker and you won’t be wrong.

Na wa o, of all the things about the striker's technique the writer could use, this is all he/she had to write? accountant?? this is piss poor!!

^^^^^

Hehehehehehe

blank:

U guys should free my Enyimba. We're just going thru a dip in form ask Chelsea.

No mind them. It is temporary.

Dis Guy:


Na wa o, of all the things about the striker's technique the writer could use, this is all he/she had to write? accountant?? this is piss poor!!

LOL. I was laughing when I saw it too. His technique is indescribable

Week 10 Preview

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Bukola Babes v Warri Wolves

Festus Allen’s men will now play their home games at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi starting with the game against Warri Wolves this weekend. Bukola Babes have won just twice in their last five games while Wolves have won thrice in last five games and will be eyeing a second win on the road. A difficult game against the newcomers but we fancy Wolves to get a result.

Prediction: 1 – 2

Recent head-to-head meetings
None

Dolphins v Heartland

Chidi Osuchukwu, Sunday Rotimi, Owusu Addae, Emah Godwin and Captain Ejindu are all shaping up to ensure that they keep Dolphins on top of the league log for the second week when Heartland come calling in Port Harcourt on Saturday. Heartland have largely struggled on the road in this campaign and followed that struggle with a goalless draw at home to Lobi Stars last week in Aba, now their temporary home ground. Dolphins will edge their way in this one.

Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings

April 15, 2010: Dolphins 1 – 0 Heartland
November 18, 2009: Heartland 1 – 0 Dolphins
September 22, 2004: Dolphins 4 – 0 Nationale (now Heartland)
April 25, 2004: Nationale (now Heartland) 2 – 0 Dolphins
July 31, 2005: Dolphins 1 – 1 Nationale (now Heartland)
February 20, 2005: Nationale 1 – 0 Dolphins
August 24, 2003: Dolphins 1 – 0 Nationale (now Heartland)
March 19, 2003: Nationale (now Heartland) 2 – 0 Dolphins

Kano Pillars v Enugu Rangers

There have been 16 meetings in the topflight between these two sides since 2003. From the 16 games, there have been three draws – all at Kano Pillars – with Rangers grabbing eight wins. But the Flying Antelopes head to Kano with a poor away form of no points and goals in this ongoing campaign. Both teams share same form guide of three wins from their last five games. But Salisu Yusuf’s men should get all points against their Rangers’ counterparts, who are still struggling on the road.

Prediction: 2 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings

May 16, 2010: Kano Pillars 1 – 0 Enugu Rangers
December 20, 2009: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Kano Pillars
April 25, 2009: Kano Pillars 1 – 1 Enugu Rangers
December 14, 2008: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Kano Pillars
January 30, 2008: Enugu Rangers 2 – 1 Kano Pillars
January 12, 2008: Kano Pillars 1 – 0 Enugu Rangers
April 8, 2007: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 Kano Pillars
January 31, 2007: Kano Pillars 1 – 0 Enugu Rangers
July 19, 2006: Enugu Rangers 3 – 2 Kano Pillars
April 22, 2006: Kano Pillars 0 – 0 Enugu Rangers
September 11, 2005: Kano Pillars 1 – 0 Enugu Rangers
April 3, 2005: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Kano Pillars
June 6, 2004: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 Kano Pillars
March 3, 2004: Kano Pillars 1 – 1 Enugu Rangers
September 14, 2003: Kano Pillars 2 – 0 Enugu Rangers
March 26, 2003: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Kano Pillars

Sunday, January 9, 2011

Shooting Stars v Niger Tornadoes

Fatai Amoo’s men have won three of their four last home games against Niger Tornadoes. Shooting Stars are aiming for a fifth win that could see them climb into the top six depending on the outcome of the other results this weekend. Gbolahan Salami and Raheem Owolabi are primed to continue upfront for the Stars against Tornadoes. This looks like another win in the offing for Shooting Stars.
Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings

June 13, 2010: Shooting Stars 2 – 1 Niger Tornadoes
January 27, 2010: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 0 Shooting Stars
June 18, 2006: Shooting Stars 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
June 8, 2006: Niger Tornadoes 1 – 0 Shooting Stars
October 22, 2005: Shooting Stars 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
May 18, 2005: Niger Tornadoes 1 – 1 Shooting Stars
August 25, 2004: Niger Tornadoes 1 – 0 Shooting Stars
April 7, 2004: Shooting Stars 0 – 0 Niger Tornadoes

Zamfara Utd v Kaduna Utd

Two seasons ago this same game raised dust following Zamfara’s 9 – 0 win. But we will not be seeing such a scoreline in this clash. Kaduna United will miss their top scorer, Jude Aneke, who is out injured after he suffered a broken toe on December 23 against Ocean Boys. Maurice Cooreman’s men will make the short trip from Kaduna to Kano with the hope of taking a result away from Zamfara United.

Prediction: 1 – 1

Recent head-to-head meetings
April 11, 2010: Kaduna United 0 – 0 Zamfara United
November 29, 2009: Zamfara United 1 – 1 Kaduna United
June 14, 2009: Zamfara United 9 – 0 Kaduna United
January 11, 2009: Kaduna United 3 – 1 Zamfara United

Sunshine Stars v Kwara Utd(Live on SS9)

After missing out in last week’s loss at Kaduna United, Ukeyima Akombo should return to the line of duty for Sunshine Stars. Gbenga Ogunbote’s side have been difficult to play against when at home and Kadiri Ikhana will send out his players with the intent to get all points. But expect Sunshine Stars to return to winning ways.

Prediction: 2 – 1

Recent head-to-head meetings

March 28, 2010: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Kwara United
November 18, 2009: Kwara United 2 – 0 Sunshine Stars
March 26, 2008: Sunshine Stars 2 – 0 Kwara United
September 29, 2007: Kwara United 2 – 0 Sunshine Stars
May 17, 2003: Kwara United 1 – 1 Sunshine Stars
March 29, 2003: Sunshine Stars 1 – 0 Kwara United

Ocean Boys v Crown FC

For Crown Football Club, fatigue could set in for them due to the long trip from Ilaro to Yenagoa. They are a new side in the topflight and the rigours of the campaign appear to be setting in. Ganiyu Salami’s men will not escape a back-to-back defeat in the space of seven days, as Ocean Boys zero in on their third win of the season.

Prediction: 2 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings
None

Lobi Stars v Juth FC

Two seasons ago this corresponding fixture ended goalless. The Healers as the Jos University Teaching Hospital (Juth) Football Club are called have struggled getting the wins in the bag. They have managed just one win with four draws. On the road, it has not been a fine season for The Healers and it might just be another difficult trip for Tunde Abdulrahman’s side.
Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings

February 25, 2009: Lobi Stars 0 – 0 Juth FC
January 17, 2009: Juth FC 0 – 0 Lobi Stars
March 5, 2008: Lobi Stars 2 – 1 Juth FC
October 27, 2007: Juth FC 3 – 0 Lobi Stars


Enyimba v Gombe Utd

This is game number 100 in the season and the champions, Enyimba, get that honour of playing host to this game. The six-time champions are still far from their best due to financial crisis rocking the side. But at home this term, they have managed to grab the points with solitary goals mostly from the spot. Expect Enyimba key players to remain missing once again in this game though they will win this one.
Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head meetings

April 10, 2010: Enyimba 1 – 0 Gombe United
November 28, 2009: Gombe United 1 – 1 Enyimba
March 8, 2009: Enyimba 2 – 0 Gombe United
October 26, 2008: Gombe United 2 – 1 Enyimba
May 25, 2008: Enyimba 4 – 0 Gombe United
January 6, 2008: Gombe United 1 – 0 Enyimba
June 10, 2007: Enyimba 1 – 1 Gombe United
March 7, 2007: Gombe United 1 – 0 Enyimba
January 14, 2007: Enyimba 2 – 0 Gombe United
July 2, 2006: Gombe United 1 – 0 Enyimba
April 26, 2006: Enyimba 2 – 1 Gombe United
November 20, 2005: Gombe United 3 – 0 Enyimba
June 19, 2005: Enyimba 3 – 0 Gombe United
29.08.2004: Enyimba 1 – 0 Gombe United
April 18, 2004: Gombe United 1 – 1 Enyimba
July 3, 2003: Enyimba 1 – 0 Gombe United
February 12, 2003: Gombe United 0 – 0 Enyimba

Monday, January 10, 2011

Plateau Utd v Sharks

The last time both teams met in the topflight was in the 2003 season – and Plateau United did the double over the Blue Angels. Last Thursday, Sharks lost in a rescheduled game to Shooting Stars in Abeokuta and I cannot see them overcoming Ndubuisi Nduka’s men in spite of their poor form that has kept them bottom of the log this season. Plateau United will give everything into this game to claim all three points against the Wafu Cup holders.

Prediction: 2 – 1

Recent head-to-head meetings
July 26, 2003: Plateau United 2 – 1 Sharks
March 5, 2003: Sharks 0 – 1 Plateau United

http://www.naijaligue..com

Port Harcourt rules the roost

Port Harcourt sides Sharks and Dolphins opened the New Year with difficult wins, at home to Enyimba and away to Crown respectively.

Those wins have seen the two Garden City clubs annex a huge chunk of the NPL's first Team of the Week for the New Year.

Six of the top picks for this week's team of the week, including coach Stanley Eguma, have come from Port Harcourt, and who can say they do not deserve it.

Sharks' Senegalese center half Ousmane Pape Sane becomes the first foreign player to break into the weekly selection.

But there are also some interesting picks. Isiaka Olawale continues to make a case for veteran legs as he nipped in again after his two-goal display, and Warri Wolves' Goodluck Onamado, who was applauded off the pitch, also earns his spot.

NPL WEEK 9 TEAM OF THE WEEK:

GK: ROTIMI SUNDAY (DOLPHINS)
For a commanding performance in Ilaro against crown, helping his team not just to their second away victory of the season but also to the top of the log.

RIGHT BACK: VICTOR EZEMA (KADUNA UTD)
His adventurous exploits from the defence for his team contributed in no small measure to the victory recorded against the very gifted and tactically disciplined Sunshine Stars of Akure in Kaduna. Oh, and the goal helped too.

LEFT BACK: ABUBAKAR YUSUF (BUKOLA BABES)
Captain who led by example, driving his team on in a lung-bursting display against Niger Tornadoes.

CENTRE BACK: OUSMANE PAPE SANE (SHARKS)
The Senegalese was massive in the centre of defence for the Blue Angels. His performance was one of the reasons that Sharks edged Enyimba by 2-1. Dolphins captain Emmah Godwin only just missed out here.

CENTRE BACK: GOODLUCK ONAMADO (WOLVES)
How many times does a player get applauded off the pitch at the end by both sets of supporters, especially a defender? And yes, he scored, too against Zamfara United.

DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD: ISIAKA OLAWALE (KWARA)
He won't go away now, will he? An inspiring display from his deep lying position capped with two well taken goals kept his youthful but very hardworking team in the top 4 again.

RIGHT MIDFIELDER: TOCHUKWU LINUS (GOMBE)
He is a forward, and scored again in the week under review, but such is the glut of attacking options that he ends up on the right hand side of the team as a midfielder cum forward.

ATTACKING MIDFIELD: CHIDI OSUCHUKWU (DOLPHINS)
Intelligent and extremely creative playmaker who marked his return from a short injury spell with the winner away from home for Dolphins against Crown in IIaro on Sunday.This former Gateway star is surely one of the shining prospects in the Nigeria premier league.

LEFT MIDFIELDER: OMOH OJABU (DOLPHINS)
The under20 star slots into the left side of midfield in an attacking style. The former under17 midfielder ran the right side of Crown's defence ragged. It was also Ojabu's assist that led to Chidi Osuchukwu's goal on 48 mins.

STRIKER: BRIGHT EJIKE (SHARKS)
Efficient and pacy Ejike led the lines well for Sharks against a very determined Enyimba side that worked hard at getting something on the road in Port Harcourt in week 9.This Flying Eagles forward did his rising profiIe a lot of good with another outstanding performance last saturday.

COACH OF THE WEEK: STANLEY EGUMA (DOLPHINS)
For leading his wards back to the top of the log after picking up his second away victory of the season

http://www.kickoff.com/news/19568/port-harcourt-rules-the-roost.php

Who was the player of the Month for December?

I think it was that guy (the current highest goalscorer) that won it.

Ocean boys 2 Crown 0

Dolphins 1 vs Heartland 0. A 30 yard Uche Oguchi screamer was enough to give Dolphins all 3 points.
Heartland spurned alot of gilt edged chances. Okey Nwadike failed to score with an empty net in front of him.

Dolphins remain on top of the table with 21 points.

jan 10

Enyimba 2 - 0 Gombe United
Sunshine Stars 1 - 0 Kwara United
Zamfara United 0 - 1 Kaduna United
Ocean Boys 2 - 0 Crown FC
Dolphins FC 1 - 0 Heartland FC
Bukola Babes 1 - 0 Warri Wolves
Kano Pillars 1 - 0 Rangers International

Sharks players, officials in bus crash

BARELY two weeks after they were rewarded with cars and cash gifts for winning the West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup by the Rivers State government.

The domestic league and indeed the families of Sharks FC of Port-Harcourt players and officials would have been thrown into mourning after the Port-Harcourt side’s team bus was involved in a ghastly motor accident during the wee hours of Monday.

Luckily, there were no fatalities, however, several players and officials suffered injury.

A text message sent at 1:55am to NationSport by the club’s media officer, Confidence Idaa, who was also involved in the accident, revealed: "We have God to thank for our lives last night (1:43am) as our bus was involved in an accident. It somersaulted three times in Area 1 part of Abuja as we were on our way back from Forest in Plateau State where we were asked to return home as a result of the crisis in Jos.

"Though no life was lost, I can tell you that some players and officials sustained various degrees of injuries. Terry Envoh had to be revived as he hit his head on the bus when it somersaulted. Not just Envoh, Kennedy Boboye hit his chest on the front seat and our goalkeeper trainer too broke his head.

"As at now (2pm Monday) Terry Envoh is complaining of serious body pain, so, himself, Odinga Odinga and I are preparing to go and have an x-ray. Also Boboye is to have a scan on his chest after complaining of pains too.

Gomo Unduku, Ernest Tiehbanyo, Flying Eagles skipper, Fortune Chukwudi and Chuks Ezeji were some members of the Sharks contingent that were also in the bus and who not only cheated death, but were also fortunate to escape without a scratch.

Sharks were set for the game against Plateau United on Monday but the match is now sure to be postponed for the fourth time.

http://thenationonlineng.net/web3/football-golf-boxing/24335.html

Court re-instates Owumi as NPL boss

A Federal High court sitting in Lagos, has ordered the Nigeria Football Federation and the Nigeria Premier League Board to shelve the NPL chairmanship re-run election scheduled for tomorrow.

The trial judge, Justice Okechukwu Okeke handed down the directive, following a suit filed by Mr Davidson Owumi, who was sacked by the NFF during its general assembly held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on December 29, 2010.

The court adjourned till January 17, 2011, for hearing in the suit, and urged parties to maintain status quo pending the hearing of the motion.

By implication Owumi would remain as chairman of the NPL until the determination of the substantial suit. Owumi’s counsel, in the suit, is asking for an order, restraining NFF and the League Board and other defendants whether by themselves, their servants, agents and or privies from implementing and/or enforcing the report of the Prof Akin Ibidapo_ Obe Arbitration panel.

He is also praying the court to restrain NFF and the League Board from carrying out or give effect to the purported decision reached by NFF and the League Board at its yearly General Assembly in Uyo, annulling his election as chairman of the league Board.

Owumi is praying the court to determine whether the members of the NFF Board and its chairman, Alhaji Aminu Maigari can carry out and or discharge the duties and functions of office by virtues of the election of August 26, 2010, which was annulled by Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court.

He also want the court to determine whether the purported decision of the NFF and its chairman on December 29, to annul, his election as chairman of the Nigeria Premier League Board as well as the directive to the Board to conduct a fresh election within 14 days, while the suit is pending was not an affront on the integrity of the court.

Owumi, had averred in an affidavit in support of the suit, that if the officials of NFF and the league board were not called to order by suspending the purported nullification and revert to the status quo, more havoc and damage would have been visited on him as it relates to football administration in Nigeria.

http://www.vanguardngr.com/2011/01/court-re-instates-owumi-as-npl-boss/

Sunday 16 January 2011


3SC 1 - 1 Kaduna Utd FC
Enyimba Int’l FC 0 - 0 Warri Wolves FC
Rangers Int’l FC 1 - 0 Gombe Utd FC
Sunshine Stars FC 2 - 1 Heartland FC
Zamfara Utd FC 1 - 0 Crown FC

On top the ojoro from the officials, the elephants still dropped points at home, they berra get their acts right before their continental campaign.

Kwara utd getting hammered by Bukola babes, wonders shall never end, na wa o

Crown FC wetin happen? the honeymoon is over?

I wonder why JUTH and plateau utd have not been relocated outside the city- who wants to go and play there?

I think the Ilorin derby was a fair game, no 'gentleman's agreement' between both sides.
There were a couple of away draws last weekend. Plateau and JUTH have been ordered to look for new grounds

16/01 Zamfara United 1 - 0 Crown FC
Shooting Stars 1 - 1 Kaduna United
Enyimba 0 - 0 Warri Wolves
Rangers International 1 - 0 Gombe United
Sunshine Stars 2 - 1 Heartland FC
Bukola Babes 3 - 0 Kwara United
Plateau United 2 - 2 Niger Tornadoes
Kano Pillars 1 - 1 Sharks
Dolphins FC 1 - 0 Lobi Stars

[center]Bukola Babes’ Allen leads Team of Week[/center]

For the first time this season, one of the coaches from the newcomers to the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has been picked as coach of the week.
Bukola Babes’ head coach, Festus Allen (pictured), gets the nod from the Premier League’s panel to lead the Team of the Week in a 4-4-2 formation following his side’s thrashing of Kadiri Ikhana’s Kwara United.
With Allen in the Team of the Week are two of his players – Seun Sogbesan and Effiom Otu-Bassey – who slot into centre-back and left midfield respectively.
Warri Wolves share same number of entrants into this week’s team with goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim, centre-back ThankGod Ike and midfielder Emmanuel Omodiagbe making the cut.
Victor Ezema of Kaduna United is picked for right-back while dead-ball specialist Daniel Mende of Sunshine Stars is named at left-back.
The duo of Josiah Maduabuchi of Enyimba and Gabriel Reuben of Kano Pillars complete a four-man midfield.
The two men that accounted for the goals in the game between Kano Pillars and Sharks last Saturday, Victor Ezeji (Sharks) and Victor Namo (Kano Pillars), will lead the attacking line for this week’s team.

Why they made the team
Goalkeeper: Chigozie Agbim (Warri Wolves)
The Nigeria B Team goalie was the man that stood between Enyimba and three points in Aba. Valentine Nwabili, Junior Osagie and John Agbawu all tested him. Agbim made two top drawer saves including one from Nnaemeka Anyanwu on 28 minutes that will stand out as one of the saves of the season. He was definitely the reason for Wolves taking a point in Aba, as he beat Olabisi Adewunmi of Zamfara United and Okiemute Odah of Sharks to this position.

Right-back: Victor Ezema (Kaduna Utd)
It was a very composed performance from Ezema against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC). Maurice Cooreman detailed him to man-mark Gbolahan Salami and he did it so well but for goalkeeper Richard Ochanyi’s error that gift the Shooting Stars’ man a goal. But Ezema kept Salami quiet in the game.

Centre-back: Seun Sogbesan (Bukola Babes)
He was massive in the defence line of Bukola Babes and made sure that the attackers of Kwara United were kept quiet for 90 minutes. Sogbesan also covered every blade of the grass in the defence line, as Bukola Babes romped to a 3 – 0 shock win over Kadiri Ikhana’s men.

Centre-back: ThankGod Ike (Warri Wolves)
Ike was a rock in the centre of Warri Wolves defence and no wonder coach Paul Aigbogun loves handing him a starting place every time. The Nigeria B Team defender held off Enyimba on a number of occasions with his aerial presence and calculative tacklings to make sure Wolves left Aba with a result.

Left-back: Daniel Mende (Sunshine Stars)
Mende made the left side of the field of his team his own. He was visibly all through the game and capped a fine performance with a stunning free-kick that ensured that Sunshine Stars continue to chase Dolphins at the summit of the Nigeria Premier League (NPL).

Right midfielder: Josiah Maduabuchi (Enyimba)
This talented Enyimba playmaker held the ball in the middle so well and caused his opponents problems with his dribbling runs. On almost every occasion, he was the creative spark in the Peoples Elephant’s setup against Warri Wolves.

Central midfielder: Gabriel Reuben (Kano Pillars)
Though he is a defensive midfielder, Reuben has the knack of venturing forward and back within the twinkle of an eye. He is a box-to-box player and he exhibited that character against Sharks on Saturday for Kano Pillars.

Central midfielder: Emmanuel Omodiagbe (Warri Wolves)
The former Heartland midfielder played the holding role in front of his side’s centre-backs very well. He foiled several attempts from the rampaging Enyimba attackers.

Left midfielder: Effiom Otu-Bassey (Bukola Babes)
The left-footed has been impressive this season and he continued that performance by running Kwara United’s defence ragged. He also got one of the three goals scored by his team that nailed Kwara United.

Striker: Victor Ezeji (Sharks)
The veteran striker was a handful for Kano Pillars’ defence in Saturday’s 1 – 1 draw. He got the goal for the Blue Angels and troubled Pillars back line during the match.

Striker: Victor Namo (Kano Pillars)
He came on as a substitute and immediately his presence was felt, as he stretched Sharks defence by drawing them to the wings and creating acres of space for his teammates in the middle. In spite of the fact that he lost his father, Namo got a late equaliser for Pillars to save his side the embarrassment of losing at home.

Coach: Festus Allen (Bukola Babes)
It is not often that coaches regarded as upcoming are seen as flooring their experienced counterparts. But Allen did so in style against his Kwara United counterpart, Kadiri Ikhana, a former African Coach of the Year and winner of the NPL.

Team of the Week
Chigozie Agbim (Warri Wolves)
Victor Ezema (Kaduna Utd)
Seun Sogbesan (Bukola Babes)
ThankGod Ike (Warri Wolves)
Daniel Mende (Sunshine Stars)
Josiah Maduabuchi (Enyimba)
Gabriel Reuben (Kano Pillars)
Emmanuel Omodiagbe (Warri Wolves)
Effiom Otu-Bassey (Bukola Babes)
Victor Ezeji (Sharks)
Victor Namo (Kano Pillars)
Coach: Festus Allen (Bukola Babes)

http://www.naijaligue..com

[center]Poor officiating, brawl highlight Nigerian games[/center]

Sunday’s Week 12 games were a combination of poor officiating by match arbiters, three red cards and a wrestling bout in the Nigeria Premier League (NPL).
In Aba, centre referee from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Adamu Gambo, contrived to give 11 minutes of added time in the game between titleholders, Enyimba and Warri Wolves to the shock of the travelling contingent and journalists except the home fans.
Spokesman of Warri Wolves, Timi Ebikagboro, told SuperSport.com that the officiating from Gambo and his assistants, Alfred Saiki from Kano and Aliyu Abdullahi from Kaduna, was one of the worse he has seen in recent times in Nigeria’s topflight.
“Almost every major call that the referee made was against Warri Wolves,” complained Ebikagboro. “At almost every instance we made an attacking attempt, our team was flagged offside and so the boys resorted to taking shots from long distance. At the end he added 10 minutes for a game that witnessed very little stoppage.”
The game in Aba was seven minutes past regulation time before the fourth official, M. Ogunta from Abia, signalled for four minutes to be added.
But Paul Aigbogun’s men held on for a point leaving the Peoples Elephant with their first draw at home.
In Kano, Zamfara United in spite of grabbing their third win of the campaign had midfielder Usman Mohammed sent off by referee Benjamin Ode from the FCT, Abuja for a two-footed tackle on 44 minutes against Crown Football Club.
But Crown, on the other hand, failed to make good use of playing against 10-men, as striker Bode Daniel missed a spot kick saved by Zamfara United goalie, Olabisi Adewunmi.
However, the game in Ijebu-Ode earlier tipped as one of the star games for Sunday turned out to be a brawl between players of Sunshine Stars and Heartland, as the centre referee, Friday Awogo from the FCT, Abuja, could not stamp his authority on the game.
Heartland skipper, Chinedu Efugh, simply told SuperSport.com: “The ref messed up the game.”
Trouble started in Ijebu-Ode the moment Joshua Obaje cancelled Ibrahim Ajani’s 11th minute strike with fans of Sunshine Stars screaming from the stands with threatening words at the match officials.
Some journalists were also harassed in the heat of the troubled at the Gateway International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode.
The game at the MIKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta witnessed another ugly incident, as Rapheal Musa became the second Shooting Stars’ player to be sent off this season.
Musa was shown the marching order by referee Godwin Ubosi from Enugu for retaliating against Kaduna United's Anthony Michael in the 74th minute.
Another drama followed few minutes later when Kaduna United’s Nelson Nimyel was sent off for aiming a punch at Akindele Toluwase.
In the face of the mixed drama in the Week 12 games, Dolphins remain top and two points clear of the chasing pack.

Sunshine Stars to play behind closed doors

Nigeria Premier League (NPL) side, Sunshine Stars, are to play their next two home games in the country’s topflight behind closed doors starting with matches scheduled for this weekend.
The directive comes from the Premier League following scenes from last Sunday’s Week 12 game between Sunshine Stars and Heartland at the Gateway International Stadium in Ijebu-Ode.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Premier League, Tunji Babalola, said Sunshine Stars have been slammed with the charge due to the misconduct of their supporters during last Sunday’s game.
Babalola said: “Sunshine Stars FC supporters were harassing the away team in their game against Heartland FC over the weekend thereby violating the rules and regulations of the NPL.”
“The supporters of Sunshine Stars FC are hereby warned to desist from such attitude or NPL will be obliged to invoke stiffer sanction on the erring club(s).”
Also, the supporters of 3SC where equally issued a warning order by the NPL.
The NPL also slammed a one-game suspension on Ahmed Kadiri of Enyimba for unsporting behaviour in their match against Warri Wolves last Sunday.
Kadiri will also pay the sum of N100,000 as fine, as he will miss his team’s next game against Kaduna United this weekend.

http://naijaligue..com/

NPL suspends keeper Akpan

In the wake of the brawl game in an encounter between Sunshine Stars and Heartland, goalkeeper Bassey Akpan (pictured) has become the latest to be charged with unsporting conduct.
The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) in a statement has slammed a one-game suspension on the Heartland goalkeeper for his poor behaviour in last Sunday's game against Sunshine Stars.
Akpan will also pay N100,000 as fine to the NPL.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Premier League, Tunji Babalola, told SuperSport.com that Akpan was charged and suspended based on the match report submitted to the NPL.
Babalola said the Heartland goalkeeper was suspended for shoving the centre referee, Friday Awogo from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja during a Week 12 game.
"He (Akpan) pushed the referee during the game between Sunshine Stars and Heartland. That incident was in the match report submitted to the NPL. So we have decided to act on it," said the Premier League scribe.
Babalola added that the wave of fines and suspensions in the Nigerian topflight is to ensure that all actors in the championship keep to the rules guiding the NPL.
“NPL will remain steadfast in sanitising the league of any unprofessional conduct on and off the pitch at regular interval,” said Babalola.
Akpan will now miss Heartland's next home match against Zamfara United in Calabar this weekend.
He is the second player to be slammed with such charge this week after Enyimba's Austin Kadiri suffered same fate for punching an opponent in a Week 12 game against Warri Wolves last Sunday.

http://naijaligue..com/

Nigeria preview for Week 13

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Gombe United v Sharks

Bernard Ogbe’s Gombe United head into this game in 12th position on the log against in-form Sharks at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi. Gombe have won all their five games at home this season while the Blue Angels have taken three draws on the road in five games with the remaining ending in losses. It will be difficult for Sharks to pick a result at Gombe.

Prediction: 2 – 1

Recent head-to-head
June 6, 2010: Gombe United 2 – 0 Sharks
January 30, 2010: Sharks 1 – 1 Gombe United
February 7, 2009: Sharks 0 – 0 Gombe United
September 14, 2008: Gombe United 1 – 0 Sharks
April 12, 2008: Sharks 3 – 1 Gombe United
December 9, 2007: Gombe United 0 – 0 Sharks
August 17, 2006: Gombe United 3 – 0 Sharks
June 3, 2006: Sharks 2 – 1 Gombe United
December 18, 2005: Sharks 0 – 3 Gombe United
June 12, 2005: Gombe United 0 – 0 Sharks
September 14, 2003: Gombe United 3 – 1 Sharks
March 26, 2003: Sharks 1 – 1 Gombe United

Niger Tornadoes v Enugu Rangers

The Flying Antelopes will seek to end their poor away run in which they are yet to score a goal this season. Enugu Rangers have an open window to dent Tornadoes at home considering that they are yet to win in their last five games – a scorecard of four draws and one loss. But with Alphonsus Dike’s men yet to hit the ground running on the road, the best from this game will be a draw

Prediction: 0 – 0

Recent head-to-head

March 13, 2010: Niger Tornadoes 2 – 0 Enugu Rangers
October 10, 2009: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
May 2, 2009: Enugu Rangers 0 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
December 17, 2008: Niger Tornadoes 0 – 0 Enugu Rangers
May 25, 2008: Niger Tornadoes 0 – 0 Enugu Rangers
January 6, 2008: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
March 18, 2007: Enugu Rangers 2 – 2 Niger Tornadoes
January 20, 2007: Niger Tornadoes 1 – 0 Enugu Rangers
August 7, 2005: Enugu Rangers 0 – 1 Niger Tornadoes
February 26, 2005: Niger Tornadoes 0 – 1 Enugu Rangers
August 1, 2004: Enugu Rangers 2 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
April 3, 2004: Niger Tornadoes 1 – 1 Enugu Rangers
May 25, 2003: Enugu Rangers 1 – 0 Niger Tornadoes
February 1, 2003: Niger Tornadoes 3 – 0 Enugu Rangers

Kwara United v 3SC

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) have been poor on the road with just one point from 15. But it will be a short trip from their base in Ibadan to Sagamu to face Kwara United, who were battered last weekend by Bukola Babes. 3SC have not beaten Kwara United in seven years on the road except for two draws last season and on April 16, 2005. But Kadiri Ikhana’s side will seek to return to winning ways.
Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head

May 1, 2010: 3SC 1 – 0 Kwara United
December 12, 2009: Kwara United 0 – 0 3SC
September 24, 2005: 3SC 1 – 0 Kwara United
April 16, 2005: Kwara United 0 – 0 3SC
June 5, 2004: 3SC 3 – 1 Kwara United
March 3, 2004: Kwara United 3 – 1 3SC

Dolphins v Kano Pillars

Five previous visits by Kano Pillars to Port Harcourt have ended empty-handed. Dolphins have the longest winning streak of four and will stretch that to five on Saturday when they play host to Kano Pillars. Dolphins have won all six games at home this season.

Prediction: 1 – 0
Prediction: 1 – 0
Recent head-to-head

May 22, 2010: Kano Pillars 1 – 1 Dolphins
January 13, 2010: Dolphins 3 – 1 Kano Pillars
July 15, 2006: Dolphins 3 – 0 Kano Pillars
May 6, 2006: Kano Pillars 2 – 0 Dolphins
October 22, 2005: Kano Pillars 2 – 1 Dolphins
June 15, 2005: Dolphins 2 – 0 Kano Pillars
July 25, 2004: Dolphins 2 – 0 Kano Pillars
March 31, 2004: Kano Pillars 3 – 0 Dolphins
August 2, 2003: Kano Pillars 2 – 1 Dolphins
March 9, 2003: Dolphins 3 – 1 Kano Pillars

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Crown FC v Bukola Babes

It is the first topflight meeting between the two sides. Ganiyu Salami’s men are on a streak of four losses in their last five matches compared to Bukola Babes’ three wins, one draw and one loss. Coach Festus Allen of Bukola Babes is confident that his side can take something from this game in spite of having picked just a point from five games on the road.
Prediction: 2 – 1

Recent head-to-head
None

Heartland v Zamfara United

The Naze Millionaires will play their first game at their new home ground – the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar against Zamfara United. Heartland have been comfortable facing Zamfara as evident in their past four meetings at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri dating back to March 20, 2005. Zamfara should drop back to the relegation zone after this game.

Prediction: 3 – 1

Recent head-to-head

June 28, 2010: Heartland 2 – 1 Zamfara United
January 24, 2010: Zamfara United 1 – 0 Heartland
June 3, 2009: Heartland 3 – 0 Zamfara United
December 17, 2008: Zamfara United 0 – 0 Heartland
March 5, 2008: Heartland 3 – 0 Zamfara United
October 28, 2007: Zamfara United 1 – 0 Heartland
August 27, 2005: Zamfara United 0 – 0 Nationale (now Heartland)
March 20, 2005: Nationale (now Heartland) 1 – 0 Zamfara United

Lobi Stars v Ocean Boys

This is a game between (Ocean Boys in) 15th and (Lobi Stars in) 16th placed sides. The two teams are of equal strength considering their unimpressive start to the season. One of them will return to the drop zone at the end of this tie – and Ocean Boys look likely due to their form on the road of five losses in five away games.
Prediction: 1 – 0

Recent head-to-head

March 28, 2010: Lobi Stars 2 – 0 Ocean Boys
November 18, 2009: Ocean Boys 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
June 14, 2009: Ocean Boys 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
January 11, 2009: Lobi Stars 2 – 1 Ocean Boys
April 27, 2008: Ocean Boys 2 – 0 Lobi Stars
January 9, 2008: Lobi Stars 1 – 1 Ocean Boys
June 18, 2006: Ocean Boys 1 – 0 Lobi Stars
June 7, 2006: Lobi Stars 2 – 1 Ocean Boys

Warri Wolves v Plateau Utd

The last time both sides met in the topflight was on August 21, 2004 in Jos and that ended in a 1 – 1 draw. The reverse fixture played earlier that year also ended 1 – 1. But Wolves were known then as NPA, and will pose a different opposition to Ndubuisi Nduka’s men who have continued their faltering start since their return to the Premier League. Paul Aigbogun’s team should blow Plateau apart.

Prediction: 3 – 1

Recent head-to-head
August 21, 2004: Plateau United 1 – 1 NPA (now Warri Wolves)
April 14, 2004: NPA (Warri Wolves) 1 – 1 Plateau United

Kaduna United v Enyimba

This is the number 130 game of the season on the calendar. It will be Maurice Cooreman leading Kaduna United out against his old team. Already, Cooreman’s side enjoyed a cup win over the Peoples Elephant last season and will want to add to the woes of the champions, who have started the season on a crawling note. Kaduna United are the only side to have scored in every game this season and will continue that run.

Prediction: 2 – 1

Recent head-to-head

February 21, 2010: Enyimba 1 – 1 Kaduna United
February 14, 2010: Kaduna United 1 – 0 Enyimba
April 5, 2009: Enyimba 1 – 0 Kaduna United
November 23, 2008: Kaduna United 0 – 0 Enyimba
August 2, 2006: Enyimba 4 – 1 Kaduna United
May 21, 2006: Kaduna United 2 – 1 Enyimba

NPL rejects reversal on sponsorship deal

The Nigeria Premier League (NPL) has declared that it has no business with the purported statement credited to its Acting Executive Secretary, Tunji Babalola, that the body will re-conduct the title sponsorship bid for the Premier League.
“Nigeria Premier League wishes to dissociate itself from the alleged press release purportedly signed by acting Executive Secretary, Tunji Babalola on the sponsorship deal with MTN.
“NPL is a registered company and as such can take decisions on how to improve the game in the country without any interference,” said the statement.
The Premier League also made it clear that Babalola’s decision to sign the statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) media officer, Ademola Olajire, does not affect the earlier bid process, which awarded Total Promotions Limited representing MTN Nigeria, the title sponsorship of the topflight in Nigeria.
The league arbiter also stated that it is the body’s chairman or the vice chairman that has the powers to append signature on statements concerning matters concerning the Premier League.
“We want to state here that whatever Tunji Babalola has signed is null and void because it does not have the mandate of the congress, which is the highest decision-making body and the board of NPL.
“We did what is best for the Premier League in the country and for anybody to feel that they can drag us back will not be good for the game in the country.
“Babalola cannot sign a document on behalf of the NPL concerning the bid process when the Chairman and Vice Chairman are still alive.
“For him to sign that the bid process that brought in a new sponsor was not well done when the congress and board has not decided otherwise is simply not binding," NPL said in a statement.

http://naijaligue..com/