Wikki Tourists’ battle to escape relegation became more complicated yesterday after they were forced to a 1-1 by visiting Rivers United in the rescheduled Match Day 15 of the 2023 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) abridged season.
The rescheduled match played at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium Bauchi offered Wikki Tourists a golden opportunity to brighten their chances of survival ahead of the final round of matches on May 18 but the embattled elephants fumbled again.
The captain of the side, Idris Guda Mohammed had the chance from the spot to put his side ahead before the break but squandered the chance to the consternation of the home fans as the half ended in a barren draw.
On resumption, Wikki Tourists broke the deadlock in the 53rd minute through Victor Okoro but the Liberian import, Albert Korvah, restored parity for the visitors in the 67th minute.
Efforts from both sides to earn the maximum points failed with Rivers United maintaining running away with a crucial point as they head into their remaining two outstanding matches.
Rivers United will therefore have a chance to go level on points with table toppers, Lobi Stars when they host fourth placed Sunshine Stars at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on May 15.
Meanwhile, the IMC has harmonised the final round of games now scheduled to be played on Sunday May 21.
IMC Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye said “the season ending Super 6 will be held in Lagos and we don’t want any Group to enjoy the advantage of extended rest period after playing their last group games”.
In a letter informing the NPFL Clubs of the fixture rearrangement, the IMC also noted that Federation Cup games of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have also impacted the commencement of the Super 6 kick-off date.
According to the new arrangements all week 18 matches will now be played on the same day, May 21 while the Super 6 playoff earlier slated for May 16 has been moved to Tuesday, May 23- June 3 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena Onikan in Lagos.
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