Boubacar Masally scored twice as Katsina United defeated Heartland 3-2 in a cracking Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) contest decided on Monday (December 28) at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium.
The visitors were quicker out of the blocks as Bright Onyedikachi netted a majestic goal inside the opening 120 seconds.
Katsina United however battled back and were back on level terms just before the break with Masally prodding home.
The visitors thought they had claimed all three points as Samuel Nnoshiri netted with nine minutes remaining to spark wild celebrations amongst a much reduced travelling party. An irrepressible Masally, however, had other ideas as he latched onto an Usman Barau pass to complete his brace.
The hosts then pushed for a late winner and astonishingly found it through Samuel Kalu who struck with practically the touch of the game to leave the Naze Millionaires pondering what might have been.
“I was disappointed that we lost despite the goal I scored,” Heartland’s Onyedikachi told SPNAfrica News after the game. “I am however confident that in our next game, we will correct our mistakes.
“We had a difficult journey to Katsina but we still played a great game.
“It is painful that we lost as were actually very close to getting all three points here in Katsina. But these are still early days.”
In the day’s other game, Akwa United and Dakkada played out an underwhelming 0-0 draw at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
On Tuesday, Enyimba and Abia Warriors will meet in Aba while Rivers United and Enugu Rangers complete the programme for match day one at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt.
Results:
Katsina United 3-2 Heartland
Akwa United 0-0 Dakkada
Tuesday: Enyimba versus Abia Warriors
Wednesday: Rivers United versus Enugu Rangers
