Expdonaloaded News; Abia Warriors, Heartland extend derby to Umuahia

The Nigeria Professional Football League enters Match Day 25 with neigh­bours, Abia Warriors and Heartland FC, billed to extend their local rivalry at the Umua­hia Township Stadium tomorrow in the arguably the most exciting fixture for the weekend.When both sides met on Match Day 5 in the first stanza of the sea­son at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, Abia Warriors stunned the host, Heartland, with a late goal to run away with all the three points at stake.

Heartland would, therefore, aim for revenge tomorrow in what promises to be an explosive Orien­tal derby as both sides look to step up their effort to finish well in the current league, having both crashed out of this year’s Federation Cup.
Expected to define the rhythm of tomorrow’s clash are Effiong Ndifreke and Chisom Chikatara who are expected to lead the attack for the home team, Abia Warriors while Bright Ejike is expected to spearhead Heartland’s revenge mission in Umuahia.
Heartland earned a slim 1-0 victory over Kwara United on Wednesday to boost its morale after last weekend’s embarrassing 1-3 loss to 3SC of Ibadan at the former’s adopted home ground at the Rojenny Stadium in Oba, near Onitsha.
“I’m grateful to God and the boys for coming all out to end the four-match winless jinx. Today’s (Wednesday) victory is a strong indication that there is something positive for us in subsequent matches. We are boosted and relieved going into the next matches,” said Coach Bethel Orji after Wednesday’s victory over Kwara United.
Abia Warriors crumbled 2-0 to Wikki Tourists at the Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi on Wednesday and would aim for victory tomorrow to restore the confidence of their home fans.
A thrilling encounter, therefore, awaits Umuahia football fans.