GOLD Cup defending champions, Kano Pillars FC defeated Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries FC in a six goals thriller.
The Sai Masu Gida team who drew their first game against FC Ebedei took the game to their Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) foe and got the first goal by Adamu Mohammed following a good build-up.
The Kadiri Ikhana team then doubled their lead after MFM FC goalkeeper gifted Pillars their second goal after he mistimed a cross thus leave Pillars ace, Kamalu Al-Hassan to tucked the ball into an open net.
The Olukoya Boys came back strong in the game as they won a penalty and was scored by Austin Ogunye to make it 2-1.
Ex-Supreme Court winger, Mubarak increased Pillars goals after he shot a low drive into the left corner of MFM FC net to make the score line 3-1.
As the clock thicked away, MFM FC were awarded another penalty following a hand ball in the box by a Pillars defender.
Ogunye then converted the spot kick to make 4-2 for his side.
Speaking after the game, coach Baleria thanked his Kano Pillars players for playing to the pattern of their new Technical Adviser, coach Kadiri Ikhana.
"Not taking anything away from MFM FC, they are a good side. They did give us a better fight.
"We played them in the league last season and they showed to us what they are made of.
"For Pillars, it's still a rebuilding process, and am delighted that both old and new players are beginning to play as a unit.
"We are defending champions of the Gold Cup pre-season tourney and we are here to retain."
Pillars now lead Group A with 4points and a plus two goals difference of FC Ebedei who are also on 4points followed by MFM FC 3points, Niger Tornadoes 1point and Sunshine Stars 1point.
