They were expected to capitalize on Enugu Rangers’ goalless draw with Heartland on Friday to climb to the summit of the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) table, but Abia Warriors and Rivers United could not deliver as they were beaten by Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars respectively .
Abia Warriors’ 1-2 defeat in Umuahia is their first home loss this season and could not have come at a better time for Sunshine Stars.
Sunshine Stars showed their intention of winning the tie early in the game and grabbed the opener on the dot of half time through former Rangers’ star, Razak Adegbite.
Abia Warriors fought back for the leveler, but the impressive Sunshine Stars’ goalkeeper, Abiodun Akande, denied the Kennedy Boboye lads the equalizer. But they got on level terms in the 78th minute through Obinna Eric Nwaimo.
The teams were on equal terms for less than 10 minutes when substitute Dele Olorundare got the winner for Sunshine Stars.
In Makurdi, Sunday Akelechi gave Lobi Stars a 67th minute winner against Rivers United from the spot after Austine Festus was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the box.
The Port Harcourt-based side could have won a point from the match late in the game when they got their own penalty, but Chinonso Okonkwo missed the spot kick.
In Uyo, Akwa United beat 3SC 2-0 through Friday Ubong and Cyril Olisema.
Warri Wolves beat El-Kanemi Warriors 3-0 with Kelvin Itoya grabbing a brace, while Sikiru Alimi added the third.
In Nnewi, FC IfeanyiUbah recorded a 2-0 win against Niger Tornadoes.
Camerounian midfielder, Tamen Medrano, fired the Anambra Warriors into a deserved lead in the 61st minute.
Brazilian forward Nico Dao jabbed in the second on the stroke of full time to make the point safe for the hosts.
Wikki Tourists beat Ikorodu United 3-0 at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.
Hamza Tiya grabbed the opening goal in the 19th minute, while Saidu Abdullahi increased the lead five minutes later.
Abdullahi got his second of the game in the 72nd minute.
Kano Pillars extended their winless run to four games after they were held to a 0-0 draw by Plateau United in Jos.
Defending champions, Enyimba of Aba beat Nasarawa United 1-0 courtesy of an exquisite free kick by home-based Super Eagles Captain, Chima Akas. GUARDIAN
