By: Nasiru Ibrahim
Wikki Tourists’ hopes of securing all three points were dashed on Sunday as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Rangers International in a thrilling Matchday 6 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi. The result means the Giant Elephants have managed just one point from their last three matches.
Longbak Klinshak gave Wikki a dream start in the 12th minute, slotting home from a fine delivery by Nasiru Jibrin (Baggio), sending the near-capacity crowd of 15,000 into wild celebrations.
The visitors struck back in the 30th minute when their former striker Godwin Obaje rose highest to head in the equaliser, silencing the home fans and ensuring the teams entered the break level at 1-1 despite Wikki’s dominance in possession.
Wikki regained the lead early in the second half. Substitute Jonathan Mairiga, barely minutes after coming on, connected with another superb cross from Jibrin to score in the 56th minute. The stadium erupted and it looked like Bauchi’s pride were on course for another home victory.
But Rangers showed resilience. Compact at the back, pressing aggressively, they began to force errors in Wikki’s defence. Their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when Obaje struck again calmly finishing to complete his brace and stun the home supporters into silence.
The match ended 2-2, a result that felt more like a defeat for Wikki, whose fans left the stadium frustrated at another home win slipping away. For Rangers, it was a hard-earned point to take back to Enugu.
The draw lifts Wikki Tourists from 9th to 7th place on the NPFL log with 8 points from six matches. Rangers remain in 17th position with 5 points from five games.
After the match, Wikki coach Abdu Maikaba admitted defensive injuries had left his side vulnerable but praised his players for their spirit. He appealed to the fans to stay patient and continue their support. Rangers officials lauded Obaje’s performance, calling him the match-winner.
Looking ahead, Wikki Tourists will hope to return to winning ways when they travel to face Remo Stars in Ikenne on Sunday, October 5, in their Matchday 7 fixture. Remo currently sit in 10th place with 7 points from just 4 games (two matches in hand). Rangers, meanwhile, will welcome fourth-placed Katsina United to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
Elsewhere in the NPFL
Nasarawa United have taken over the summit of the table following their composed 2-0 home win over Katsina United.
Former champions Enyimba have slipped to second place after being held 1-1 away to Ikorodu City.
