NASARAWA UNITED CLOSE IN AS NPFL TITLE RACE HEATS UP

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nasarawa United boosted their push for the Nigeria Premier Football League title with a hard-fought 2-1 away win over Abia Warriors in Umuahia on Matchday 22, and the result kept the pressure firmly on leaders Rivers United.

Abia Warriors took the lead just before the break through Emeka Obioma in the 42nd minute, and they went into halftime in front. However, Nasarawa United returned stronger in the second half, and goals from Habibu Alakija and JoFrank Istifanus turned the game around to secure a vital victory for the Solid Miners.

The win lifted Nasarawa United to 38 points from 22 matches, and it reduced the gap between them and Rivers United to three points. Rivers United remain top of the table on 41 points from 21 games, even though they were not in action. Their match against Kwara United was postponed due to their involvement in a CAF Champions League game against Power Dynamos.

In Enugu, Rangers put on an impressive display as they defeated Warri Wolves 4 to 2. Godwin Obaje and Chimobi Igwilo both scored twice, and the Flying Antelopes moved up to 36 points to stay within reach of the leading teams.

Niger Tornadoes also enjoyed a good day in Minna with a 2 to 0 win over Enyimba. Abdulrasheed Shehu Dabai and Rickson Mendos found the net, and the hosts never looked in trouble. In Ibadan, Shooting Stars edged Bendel Insurance 1 to 0, with Qamar Adegoke scoring the only goal in the second half.

There was late excitement in Maiduguri as El Kanemi Warriors grabbed a 1 to 0 win over Ikorodu City. Muktar Ismail scored in the 89th minute, and his goal sent the home fans into celebration.

Elsewhere, Wikki Tourist defeated Kano Pillars 2 to 0, while Barau and Bayelsa United played out a 1 to 1 draw. Katsina United and Plateau United also shared the points after a goalless draw.

With teams closely packed at both ends of the table, the title race and the fight to avoid relegation remain wide open as the season moves forward.

Results at a Glance

Niger Tornadoes 2–0 Enyimba

Shooting Stars 1–0 Bendel Insurance

Abia Warriors 1–2 Nasarawa United

Enugu Rangers 4–2 Warri Wolves

Wikki Tourist 2–0 Kano Pillars

Barau 1–1 Bayelsa United

El Kanemi Warriors 1–0 Ikorodu City

Katsina United 0–0 Plateau United