NPFL: Lobi Retain Top Spot as Enyimba Gun Down 3SC  in Ibadan

Femi Solaja

There was no change at the top of the log as the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL)  season hit the halfway mark with former champion, Lobi Stars of Makurdi maintaining the top spot after a lone-goal win at Plateau United yesterday in Jos. 

It was Suur Kumaga’s lone strike in the 23rd minute that canceled Remo Stars’ momentary lead at the top following an early-minute goal against Abia Warriors at the Ikenne stadium in the 8th minute.

The win by Lobi Stars takes the team to 36 points while Remo Stars who also won 2-1 at home against Abia Warriors are on 35 points with 10 goal difference.

At the Lekan Salami Stadium, Enyimba recorded the biggest 2-1 win of the Sunday afternoon.  The massive away win shot the team to the third position on the log with 32 points.

Chijioke Mboama silenced the Ibadan crowd with a 56th-minute penalty but Ademola Kareem restored parity in the 83rd minute. Shooting Stars search for the winning goal backfired when the visitors scored in the injury time to leave the scoreline at 2-1.

In the other matches, Gombe United played a 1-1 draw at home with Bayelsa United while Akwa United continued their resurgence with a lone-goal win against Enugu Rangers.

Two goals from Idris Suleiman and Ali Rabiu assured Kano Pillars maximum points against visiting Heartland of Owerri. The final scoreline was 2-1.

Niger Tornadoes and Katsina United played a goalless scoreline.

Matches are to resume for the second stanza this weekend with reverse fixtures of the just concluded week games.

Meanwhile, two outstanding matches will come up mid-week with Enugu Rangers at home to Rivers United while Heartland will host Kwara United in Owerri.