Joseph Atule was the hero for Barau FC in the clash of newcomers in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) as his goal denied Kun Khalifat FC the chance of taking a point in a Matchday 26 fixture on Saturday.
Atule, who surprisingly joined Barau FC in the mid-season transfer window, started on the bench but the pair of former Kun Khalifat players, Uche Moses and Henry Ezeonye, were named among the starters by their head coach Eugene Agagbe.
Kun Khalifat head coach, Obinna Uzoho, stuck with the side that saw off Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) last matchday that included new-signings, James Ekebuike and Blessed Iyamu.
The early moments of the contest at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano was balanced until Ezeonye had an opening on 20 minutes to open scoring but fired his attempt off target.
The remaining part of the first 45 minutes was a tight affair except for when Atule came off the bench to Uche Moses who could no longer continue with five minutes to the break.
The Maliya Boys approached the second half differently and often times Sagau Aliu became the tormentor of Kun Khalifat with his mazy run on the right channel.
On 75 minutes, Sagau’s industry on the wings paid off as his cross was met at the near post by Atule who directed his header past Kun Khalifat goalkeeper Nsikakabong Akpan for the winning goal.
It was the first goal for Atule in the green colour of Barau FC and also an important one that helped the Kano club move five points away from relegation spots until Sunday’s matches are determined.
On the other hand, Kun Khalifat’s woes deepen as they remain in bottom place with 25 points and three below safety.