NPFL Matchday 31: Rivers United extend lead to 10 points as Enyimba climb up to fourth
Lobi Stars stun Kwara United, Remo held by 3SC
Rivers United defeated closeat rivals Plateau United 2-0 in their NPFL Matchday 31 encounter to open up a 10-point gap atop the NPFL standings. Chijioke Akuneto opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half before adding a second in the second half to wrap up the points for the home side. It was the forward’s 14th league goal of the season, making him the joint topscorer in the division.
Gombe United claimed a 3-2 win over Heartland at the Pantami Stadium in their NPFL Matchday 31 clash. AbdulAzeez Yusuf opened the scoring for the Savannah Scorpions with the 14th goal of his debut season before Samaila Bello and Barnabas Daniel put them 3-0 up. Chukwudi Nwaodu and Chijioke Mbaoma scored for Heartland as they sought to steal a point.
Katsina United moved three points clear of the relegation with a 2-0 win over Niger Tornadoes. Goals from Ahmed Taofeek and Madaki Alkali Dauda were enough for the Chanji Boys.
Enyimba moved up to fourth place after after 2-0 win over Sunshine Stars in Aba in their NPFL Matchday 31 encounter. Emeka Obioma and Samuel Stone got the goals for the People’s Elephant, who are now only three points away from a continental place.
Rangers claimed a 2-1 win over a spirited Wikki Tourist side in Awka as they managed to keep hold of third place on the NPFL standings. A brace from Christian Nnaji sandwiched an effort from Christopher John for Wikki, who remain in the top half of the league.
Akwa United were held at home by MFM in their first meeting in Uyo since the Promise Keepers routed them 5-2 to win the league title last season.
Remo Stars dropped points in a Southwest derby for the first time this season after Shooting Stars held them to a 1-1 draw at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. Sikiru Alimi opened the scoring for the Sky Blue Stars from the penalty spot before Ebuka Anaekwe equalised for the home side shortly after.
Relegation-threatened Lobi Stars secured a 3-1 win over Kwara United in their NPFL Matchday 31 clash in Makurdi. The home side took the lead through Chinonso Okonkwo before Samuel Tiza equalised for Kwara United just before half-time. Second half goals from Olamilekan Adams and Nanen Imenger gave Lobi Stars all three points.
Nasarawa United defeated Abia Warriors 2-1 in their fixture in Lafia. Abubakar Abdullahi and Aliyu Abdullahi put the Solid Miners two goals up before Augistine Njoku scored a consolation goal for the Umuahia Landlords.