NPFL: Akwa Utd Edge Ibom Derby As Plateau Utd, Lobi Stars Win Late In Matchday 10
Plateau United maintained their position at the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) with a late goal from Uche Onwuasoanya to edge Warri Wolves 1-0 at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday.
In a weekend where most of the attention was centred on the first Ibom Derby between Dakkada and Akwa United, heavyweights Kano Pillars, Lobi Stars and Plateau United left it late in another memorable matchday.
It looked as if the league leaders, Plateau Utd were going to drop points in consecutive matches until Uche Onwuasoanya capitalized on a defensive lapse in concentration to score for the Tin City boys.
As a neutral, you must feel sad for Warri Wolves who put on a good defensive job but all credit goes to Plateau United who were able to grind out a win despite not playing to their best.
Lobi Stars maintained the pressure on leaders Plateau United after edging Katsina United 1-0 at the Aper Aku Stadium.
The all-important goal was scored in the 73rd minute by Samad Kadiri. The win completes a memorable eight days for Lobi, who have won two and drawn one in this period.
Pride was at stake at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo as the first Uyo derby took place.
Once again Orok Akarandut was the hero of the match for Akwa United as he scored the only goal of the match in the 17th minute. Akarandut has now scored in successive matches.
MFM FC 2-0 Adamawa United – Olukoya Boys back in the mix
MFM FC continued their fine form with another routine 2-0 win over Adamawa United.
Two goals in the first 30 minutes from Adeniji Adewole and Adeyinka Najeem ensured that MFM FC remained unbeaten in the month of December. The win takes MFM FC into the top-six.
Kano Pillars continued their upward climb with another hard fought 1-0 win over FC Ifeanyiubah.
However, the ‘Sai Mai Gida’ left it late with the goal coming in the 89th minute through Mustapha Musa.
Elsewhere in the NPFL, Sunshine Stars were brought back to earth after losing 2-1 to Rivers United on Sunday.
Sunshine took the lead through Timileyin Ogunninyi before Peter Ubakanma equalized for the Pride of the Rivers.
Konan N’Gouan scored the winner for Rivers United when he converted a second half penalty.
In Ilorin, Kwara United added more misery on Rangers after a 1-0 win. Christopher Nwanze scored the all important goal.
Wikki Tourists forced Abia Warriors to a 1-1 draw. Jimoh Oni put the visitors in the lead in the first half before Hassan Musa equalized for Wikki.
