Timothy Zechariah’s header in the 88th minute gave Rivers United coach and former international Finidi George a respite as they defeated Lobi Stars 1-0 in Port Harcourt on Sunday, ending an unwelcome run of five games without a victory.
In the last moments of the match, Zechariah shattered the resiliency of the bottom-place Lobi and gave his team a chance to salvage their title campaign. With 38 points from 23 games, they are currently in third place, 10 points behind leaders Remo Stars.
Before the clash, Rivers United’s last win was against Kwara United last December, enduring three draws and two defeats which saw them lose ground in the title race.
Elsewhere, Akwa United also returned to winning ways after a slim 2-1 win over visiting Enyimba FC in a match-day 23 NPFL encounter in Uyo.
The duo of Ogunleye Olayemi and Uche Sabastine were on the scoresheet to hand the Promise Keepers their first win in five games. Issah Mohammed’s goal for Enyimba was not enough to get the People’s Elephant something at the Nest of Champions.
Despite the win, the 2021 champions are still in the relegation zone with 23 points after 23 games.
Abia Warriors ran out 3-0 victorious over Sunshine Stars at the Umuahia Township Stadium, sending the Akure side into the drop zone while the Warriors climbed up to fourth.
An own goal from Chidozie Iwundu got things off for Abia Warriors in the first half before more goals from Antoine Ijoma and Samuel Ogunjimi sealed the win.
READ MORE: FG Engages NUT, Principals on Proposed 12-Year Basic Education Model
In Lagos, Shola Adelani headed home the winner as new boys Ikorodu City FC came from a goal down to beat Kwara United 2-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
The hosts were stunned inside two minutes by a Junior Aimufua goal before Toyeeb Ajeyigbe levelled matters five minutes later. Adelani proved pivotal to Nurudeen Aweroro’s side once again, scoring the winner in the 64th minute off a pass from Austin Harrison.
Niger Tornadoes and Plateau United shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw while champions Rangers International held Bayelsa United to a barren draw in Yenagoa.
