Technical Adviser of Kano Pillars FC, Usman Shariff Abdallah, has commended Bayelsa United for their impressive attacking displays during the 2023/24 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
Abdallah shared his thoughts during a media session organized by the Media and Communication Directorate of the club ahead of their Match Day 2 clash against Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, for the 2024/25 NPFL season.
According to the former Super Eagles Assistant Coach, despite Bayelsa United’s struggles in the first stanza of the previous season, where they found themselves at the bottom of the league table, they stood out as the league’s highest-scoring team. He emphasized that his coaching philosophy prioritizes defensive solidity, ensuring his team is well-structured at the back before focusing on the attack.
“In my philosophy, unlike other coaches, I’m more focused on not conceding goals. My team is always built from the back, whether we’re attacking or defending. I always ensure our defense is solid,” Abdallah explained.
He continued, “Last season, despite Bayelsa Utd being at the bottom of the table during the first stanza, they scored the highest number of goals, and many people overlooked that fact.”
Abdallah also praised his team’s performance in their previous match, where they secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Ikorodu City. He promised that his players would continue to work hard to strengthen their defense while creating an attacking unit capable of scoring freely.
Despite Bayelsa United’s 3-0 loss to Sunshine Stars in their season opener, Abdallah acknowledged their offensive strength and expressed hope for a positive result against them.
Abdallah also had high praise for his captain, Rabiu Ali, describing him as “a fantastic individual” who makes the game look easy with the ball at his feet. Ali, who netted his 120th and 121st NPFL goals in the match against Ikorodu City, expressed that under Abdallah’s guidance, he enjoys greater freedom on the field, allowing him to be more effective in front of goal.
The Sai Masu Gida will face Bayelsa United on Sunday, September 15th, at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. A victory for Kano Pillars will see them secure back-to-back wins in their opening two games of the season.
Credit: Media & Communication Directorate, KANO PILLARS FC
