Nigeria Premier League

Ex-Newcastle player jailed after punching woman, 60, and throwing chips at her

A former Newcastle United player has been jailed for 20 months after throwing cheesy chips at a 60-year-old woman before leaving her with multiple complex facial fractures following a single punch.

Marcus Maddison, 29, who began his career as a youth team player with Newcastle and has gone on to play for Charlton, Hull and Peterborough among others, broke the woman’s nose after an alcohol-fuelled night out in Darlington on September 22 of last year.

He was sentenced at Teesside Crown Court this morning having previously pleaded guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm without intent at a hearing on June 20.

During a hearing last month, the court heard from prosecutor Robin Turton that on the night of the attack Maddison and a friend left The Gate cocktail bar and went to a kebab shop at 3am before making their way home.

The prosecutor said the footballer exchanged words with the alleged victim’s daughter while walking, saying “F* off, don’t come near me you fat s.” Another person shouted, “You f wait” to which the defendant replied, “You won’t f* catch me.”

Turton said: “Throughout the exchange [Maddison’s friend] was telling the defendant ‘Home Marcus, home’ and later up the street. He heard the defendant say, ‘You come near me and I’m going to pelt these cheesy chips at you’ and he saw the defendant throw his chips with some hitting the victim.”

The court heard that Maddison, who left Darlington FC by mutual consent less than a month after the incident, fell over as he was throwing his food before getting up and punching the woman in the face. Mr Turton said his friend heard a “distinctive pop sound” as the victim fell to the ground.

Recorder Paul Reid said it was a “spontaneous assault, albeit horrific in its nature” and the victim had been struck with “devastating force.” An “oversized ring” worn by Maddison on his right fist was likened to a “knuckle duster”, the court heard.

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Maddison was then accused of fleeing the scene before police officers on Duke Street spotted the woman on the floor holding her face. Mr Turton said: “There was a steady stream of blood coming from what appeared to be a broken nose. She was in the doorway of a shop in Duke Street with her daughter. She was unable to speak due to her injuries.”

The court heard the victim was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital and a CT scan revealed multiple mid-facial bone fractures. In a video interview, the victim said she continues to suffer from numbness to her teeth, damaged sinuses and struggles with dizzy spells, headaches and blackouts.

In a statement following the initial hearing Darlington FC said in a statement: Darlington FC said: “The club were made aware of an alleged incident and conducted an immediate disciplinary investigation.

“After discussion with the player concerned the club agreed to mutually terminate his contract with immediate effect at that time.

“Darlington FC is a fan-owned club and has zero tolerance of discrimination, violence or abusive behaviour. It would be inappropriate for DFC to comment further at this time.”

Nigeria Premier League

Rivers United Back To Top Spot In NPFL Title Race

Rivers United are back on top of the NPFL standings after they beat visiting Kano Pillars and closest rivals Remo Stars fell at Niger Tornadoes.

Rivers United pipped Kano Pillars courtesy of a first-half strike by Aniekeme Okon to return of the table with 29 points from 15 matches.

Remo Stars slipped to second in the standings after they lost 2-1 at Niger Tornadoes.

They have 26 points, three points behind new leaders Rivers United.

Ikorodu City and Heartland FC continued their steady climb to top reckoning after they both won at home.

Ikorodu City smashed past Akwa United 4-1 to shoot to third place on the table with 24 points.

NPFL leading scorer Anas Yusuf broke his four-match run without a goal when he scored after 45 minutes to draw Nasarawa United level at 1-1 only for ‘The Solid Miners’ to fall 3-2 at Heartland.

Heartland are now ninth on the table on 20 points.

Bayelsa United held El Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw in Maiduguri, while Katsina United edged past Sunshine Stars 1-0 at home.

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Nigeria Premier League

Ahmed Musa Donates ₦500,000 Each To Kano Pillars, Mighty Teams

According to govima.com, Nigeria’s Super Eagles Icon, Ahmed Musa, has generously donated ₦500,000 each to the players of Kano Pillars FC Under-19 team and Mighty Jets Under-19 team. This gesture was in recognition of their impressive performances in the ongoing inaugural Under-19 Youth League.

The donation followed Kano Pillars Under-19’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Mighty Jets in a highly competitive match held on Tuesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano. The game showcased remarkable skill and determination from both sides, highlighting the potential of Nigeria’s budding football talents.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer in the FIFA World Cup, personally attended the match alongside his Kano Pillars teammates. He stayed to witness the conclusion of the Youth League fixture before joining his team’s training session in preparation for their Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 13 clash against Lobi Stars.

Known for his leadership both on and off the pitch, Musa continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. Since rejoining Kano Pillars, he has been instrumental in the team’s performance, contributing to 95% of their goals this season. Over the weekend, he scored his fifth goal of the season, a powerful header against Heartland FC, while also providing three assists and winning three penalties for his side.

Musa’s commitment to grassroots football development was evident in this latest act of generosity, which aims to motivate young players to pursue excellence. The Under-19 Youth League, a platform designed to uncover future stars, aligns perfectly with his vision for the growth of Nigerian football.

As Kano Pillars prepare to face Lobi Stars at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday, fans are hopeful that Musa’s leadership and stellar form will continue to drive the four-time Nigerian champions towards success.

Ahmed Musa’s unwavering dedication to supporting the sport at all levels underscores his enduring legacy in Nigerian football, making him a role model for the next generation of players. His contributions, both financial and motivational, remain unparalleled, cementing his place as a true ambassador of the game.

Nigeria Premier League

Shehu Abdullahi : The Maestro’s Midfield Magic

By Abdul A Kaugama

Shehu Abdullahi’s outstanding performance in Kano Pillars’ recent match has left fans and critics in awe. The midfielder’s clinical work and vision on the pitch prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football.

With precision passing and exceptional control, Shehu dictated the pace of the game, showcasing his mastery of the midfield.

His experience and skill were evident as he effortlessly navigated the opposition’s defense. The fans’ electrifying energy was matched only by Shehu’s infectious passion for the game.

Shehu’s resurgence is a testament to his dedication and hard work. His display of top-notch football skills is a clarion call for his return to the Super Eagles. Nigeria’s national team needs his expertise and leadership to excel on the international stage.

In conclusion, Shehu Abdullahi’s impressive form is a welcome development for Nigerian football. As he continues to dazzle fans with his midfield magic, we eagerly anticipate his next move.
May Allah continue to bless Shehu Abdullahi with strength, wisdom, and success in his football career.