Rivers United sink hard-fighting Lobi Stars; Abia Warriors thrash Sunshine Stars

Lobi Stars put up a spirited fight against Rivers United but surrendered all three points at the death in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) week 23 match played yesterday at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port-Harcourt.

After a barren first half, the Rivers United had to labour till the 88th minute when Timothy Zachariah rose highest to head past Lobi Stars’ goalkeeper, Japheth Opubo, for the only goal of the match.

However, Lobi Stars gave a good account of themselves as they didn’t hand over the maximum points to Rivers United on a platter.

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In Umuahia, Abia Warriors piled more misery on Sunshine Stars who were beaten 1-2 at their adopted home ground in Ikenne by Remo Stars in week 22.

An own goal by Chinedu Iwundu in the 18th minute started the tie on a shaky note for Sunshine Stars before Ijoma Antoine doubled the lead for Abia Warriors in the 36th minute.

Samuel Ogunjimi then sealed the big win for Abia Warriors with the third goal in the second minute of second half added time.

In the early kickoff in Minna, Plateau United forced Niger Tornadoes to a 1-1 draw after Samuel Kalu, in the 88th minute, cancelled Papa Daniels’ 59th minute opening goal.

Elsewhere, Akwa United recorded their first victory since the return of Coach Keneddy Boboye after they defeated Enyimba 2-1 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Jacob Ogunleye and Sabastine Uche scored in each half of the match to hand Akwa United the crucial victory.

Meanwhile, despite 10 minutes of second half added time in Yenagoa, title holders Enugu Rangers stood firm for a share of the spoils with Bayelsa United after their contest ended in a goalless draw.

In the late kickoff in Lagos, hosts Ikorodu City fought back and were leading Kwara United 2-1 at the time of press.