Amuneke: 'Heartland Will Keep Growing!'

Heartland Technical Manager, Emmanuel Amuneke, has commended his players for their spirited performance against Kano Pillars in Sunday’s high-octane NPFL Matchday 12 clash at the Kano Pillars Stadium, Sabon Gari, Kano, Completesports.com reports.

The pulsating contest ended in a 2-2 draw, with the Sai Masu Gida side twice coming from behind to cancel out Suraj Lawal’s goals in the second half.

Emmanuel Amuneke

The five-time NPFL champions took the lead early in the second half when Lawal found the back of the net in the 51st minute. However, just six minutes later, Rabiu Ali levelled for the hosts with a sublime strike.

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Lawal restored Heartland’s lead two minutes later, and it seemed the Naze Millionaires might replicate their famous 2009 victory at the same venue. However, returnee Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa rescued Kano Pillars with a well-executed equaliser in the 75th minute.

The draw extends Heartland’s unbeaten run to five games, with Amuneke describing the outcome as a “fair result.”

“For me, it was a tough game. We all know what Kano Pillars represent, especially playing at home in front of their fans after their long stint in Katsina,” Amuneke said after the match.

“This game was initially scheduled for Katsina but was moved to Kano when the Kano Pillars Stadium received approval following rehabilitation. That change added intensity as their supporters came out in full force.

“The good thing is, we remained focused as a team. The players understood their responsibilities, both with and without the ball. Of course, we would have loved to win, but we’re satisfied with the point we earned here.”

When asked if the result would have been different had the match taken place at its original venue, Muhammed Dikko Stadium in Katsina, Amuneke declined to speculate.

He said: “I can’t say for sure. One thing we prioritised was playing our game and aiming for a positive result, which we achieved. We arrived in Kano on Saturday after leaving Owerri on Thursday, so the team had adequate rest to recover from the journey, which was crucial for our performance.”

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Amuneke also praised the quality and experience of the Kano Pillars squad.

“They’re a strong team with experienced players like Ahmed Musa, Rabiu Ali, and Shehu Abdullahi. That speaks volumes about their quality. However, our players tactically read the game well and made the most of it.”

Reflecting on Heartland’s recent form, Amuneke attributed their progress to hard work and adherence to a clear process.

He added: “There’s no magic here — it’s all about hard work and belief in what we’re doing. I must thank the players for buying into our philosophy. Nothing happens without a process, and I’m happy they’ve embraced it. Their intensity, both with and without the ball, is commendable.”

Heartland, now 10th on the NPFL table with 16 points, will host Rangers in a Match Day 13 fixture at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday. Rangers, sitting fourth with 19 points, will be a tough test.

Acknowledging the challenge, Amuneke said: “Rangers are a strong side, the reigning NPFL champions, and have continental experience. When it comes to an Oriental Derby, it’s about rolling up our sleeves and preparing adequately. We’re not obsessed with the game; we just need to focus and be ready.”

By Sab Osuji