RANGERS DENIED CRUCIAL WIN AGAINST BARAU FC

Rangers International Football Club were forced to settle for a disappointing goalless draw against Barau FC in our Matchday 33 fixture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, despite a commanding performance.

Rangers International Football Club were forced to settle for a disappointing goalless draw against Barau FC in our Matchday 33 fixture at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, despite a commanding performance. The Flying Antelopes dominated proceedings from start to finish but were left frustrated by a lack of cutting edge in front of goal. We showed attacking intent early on, with Kennechukwu Agu trying his luck from distance, but his volley sailed over the bar. Rangers thought they had found the breakthrough when Chidozie Iwundu powered in a header from a corner, only for referee Bawu Buhari to disallow the goal in a highly questionable decision. Our pressure continued to build. Emmanuel Essien came close after winning possession in midfield, but his long-range strike crashed against the post. Barau goalkeeper Chisom Chiaha was then called into action, producing a fine save to deny Waheed Adebayo from close range. Chances kept coming, but the finishing touch was missing. Adebayo failed to convert from point-blank range after a dangerous delivery from Kenneth Igboke, before seeing another effort drift narrowly off target. Rangers maintained control, but profligacy in front of goal proved costly. The second half followed a similar pattern. Oputa tested from a 25-yard free kick, while Wisdom Ebirim forced an excellent save from Chiaha with a powerful strike. Barau offered little going forward, struggling to create any meaningful opportunity even late into the game. More chances went begging for the hosts. Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, left unmarked, could not capitalize on another inviting Igboke cross, while Igboke himself struck the side netting in a near miss. Late on, substitute Chimobi Igwilo injected fresh energy down the flank, delivering a dangerous cross that Iwundu headed just wide in what proved to be our final chance of the match. AS IT STANDS Rangers climbed to top of the NPFL table with 55 points, while Barau FC occupy 10th position with 43 points. UP NEXT Attention now turns to Minna, where we face Niger Tornadoes in a crucial encounter as the season approaches its climax.