NPFL: Plateau Stay Top, Enyimba Thrash Wikki

Plateau United kept their spot at the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NFPL) for the 32nd matchday this season after a 1-1 draw with Rivers United.

Rivers United was in danger of running into relegation trouble if they had lost at Plateau United but last season’s runners-up got off to the best possible start when Emeka Ogbugh scored from Zoumana Doumbia’s pass on 14 minutes to leave Plateau fans stunned.

Rotimi Sunday between the sticks for Rivers United put in a yeoman’s job to thwart most of Plateau United’s scoring chances.

Emma James, who has not missed a spot kick this season, blew an opportunity to drew Plateau United level in the 81st minute when he skied a penalty kick. Peter Eneji would later save Plateau United the blushes on 89 minutes when he netted the equalizer.

Plateau United now have 63 points, four more than second-placed MFM FC who lost 1-0 at Abia Warriors. Arinze Nwangwu’s headed goal was enough for the Umuahia club to get their 14th win of the season.

The race for third place got interesting as Enyimba hit four past Wikki Tourists. Ikechukwu Ibenegbu, Stephen Chukwude, Chinonso Okonkwo and Stanley Dimgba scored for Enyimba who are now tied on points and goal difference with third-place Akwa United on 57 points. Akwa has better goals scored.

Akwa United had on Friday defeated Lobi Stars 2-1.

Enugu Rangers finally secured for themselves top flight football next season with a 2-1 win at Remo Stars. Bobby Clement scored both goals before Akeem Taiwo got Remo’s goal.

Musa Usman’s brace gave Gombe United a 2-1 win over ABS in a relegation scrap. Wasiu Alalade got ABS’ goal.

Two goals from the spot by Chinedu Udechukwu helped Katsina United to a 2-0 win against Sunshine Stars while Adamu Hassan scored the only as Nasarawa United ran out 1-0 winners against Kano Pillars.

A late goal by Abayomi Adebayo ensured 3SC got a point in Maiduguri against El-Kanemi to brighten their chances of escaping the drop. The game ended 1-1. Babangida Ibrahim scored for El-Kanemi.

The game between Niger Tornadoes and FC Ifeanyiubah did not finish due to heavy rainfall. FC Ifeanyiubah were leading 1-0 as at half time through King Osanga’s goal. The game will be concluded on Monday morning.