Barau FC continued their impressive run in the Nigeria Premier Football League, remaining unbeaten after six matches. The team earned a point against Sporting Lagos at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday evening. This result keeps them at the summit of the NPFL with 12 points. Their impressive form has been marked by a five-game unbeaten run, which they carried into the tie against Sporting Lagos.
Sporting Lagos, coming off a famous win over Enyimba in Aba on Wednesday, sought to record back-to-back wins. However, their guests had other plans. Joel Ajibola had earlier put Sporting Lagos ahead off a rebound, but his goal was ruled offside. The hosts were unable to capitalize on this early chance, and the visitors took the lead through Joseph Atule's penalty goal in the 35th minute.
Atule's goal was his second of the season, and it gave the visitors a crucial lead. Former Remo Stars midfielder Haruna Hadi also forced Emeka Nwabulu to a save before Atule scored. The visitors' lead was maintained until the hour mark when Sodiq Ayoade pounced on a rebound to restore parity for Sporting Lagos. Ayoade's goal ensured that the hosts earned a point in the match.
The host pushed for the winner for the remainder of the tie, but Eugene Agbagbe’s men held on to the blast of the final whistle to seal another point on the road. The draw means that Barau FC have extended their unbeaten run in the league. Their defense has been solid, and they have been able to grind out results.
The result has implications for the league standings. Barua FC are unbeaten after six matches in the league and sit at the summit of the NPFL with 12 points. Rivers United and reigning champions Enugu Rangers are closely following, with 10 points each, although they have played two fewer games. Meanwhile, Sporting Lagos are ninth with seven points after five matches.
The NPFL action resumes on Sunday across various match centers. Nine-time champions Enyimba are in Kano as they look to secure their first point or win of the season against Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium. Defending champions Enugu Rangers are in Lagos as Ikorodu City’s guest, while Shooting Stars are away at Warri Wolves. These matches promise to be exciting, given the current state of the league.
The draw against Sporting Lagos has demonstrated Barau FC's resilience and ability to earn points on the road. Their unbeaten run will be tested in upcoming matches, and it will be interesting to see how they perform against tougher opponents. For now, they can be satisfied with their position at the top of the league.
Key points
- Barau FC remain unbeaten in the NPFL after six matches.
- Sodiq Ayoade scored a crucial goal for Sporting Lagos, rescuing a point for his team.
- The draw keeps Barau FC at the top of the NPFL with 12 points.
