NPFL: Early Scare, Missed Chances — Shooting Stars Held by Katsina United in Ibadan
Shooting Stars Sports Club were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against Katsina United in an NPFL Matchday 11 clash on Sunday, despite dominating large spells of the encounter at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
The game started on an uncomfortable note for the Oluyole Warriors, as Katsina United drew first blood in the 4th minute through Chigozie Ihejiofor, who pounced on a loose ball inside the area to fire the visitors ahead.
But Shooting Stars responded swiftly and confidently. In the 14th minute, Ekeocha Chukwudi finished off a well-worked buildup to level matters and restore belief among the home fans.
From that moment, 3SC dictated the tempo with long spells of possession and several promising openings, while Katsina United stayed compact and looked to threaten on the break.
Coach Nurudeen Aweroro made early tactical tweaks, introducing Adegoke Qamar in the 41st minute to sharpen the attack. The second half saw continued pressure from the home side — Ikuowem Utin went close with a header, while Sodiq Ibrahim’s long-range effort drew a save.
Further substitutions — including the introduction of Adams Mustapha, Chidiebere Nnachi, and Wasiu Ganiyu — added pace and creativity, but Katsina United’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
With the draw, Shooting Stars miss an opportunity to climb up the table but will now shift focus to their next outing — a tough away fixture against Enugu Rangers — where they’ll aim to bounce back and reignite their push for form.