Enyimba edge Rangers in derby

Source: Shengolpixs

Two-time African champions, Enyimba, defeated Enugu Rangers 2-1 in a southeast derby in a Glo Premier League match in Aba on Sunday.

After a goalless first half inside the Enyimba Stadium, the game sparked into life when Sibi Gwar [pictured with the ball] prodded home the opening goal of the contest on the hour mark.

Minutes later Gwar was on the end of another good ball and dispatched it well beyond Rangers goalkeeper, Emmanuel Daniel.

But centre referee, Opeyemi Amao, ruled out the goal from former Niger Tornadoes man for an infringement.

However, that did not deter the People's Elephant as they continued to march forward and former ABS and Abia Warriors winger, Andrew Abalogu, doubled Enyimba's lead with just a little over the last quarter of an hour to play for.

Rangers then fought back at the death and got one goal after Ejike Uzoenyi's cross was turned into Enyimba's net by centre-back, Semiu Liadi.

Enyimba kept their shape for the remainder of the last seconds to ensure they claim four points in their first two matches of this season.

But Rangers become the first team to score in Aba in the league since June 10, 2012 when Sunshine Stars lost 1-2 and thereby ending Enyimba's 22-game run without conceding at home in the premier division.

The biggest drama played out in Kano where Sunshine Stars were just seconds away from ending Kano Pillars' unbeaten run at home of more than 10 years.

Ezekiel Mbah got Kano Pillars' noses in front on 33 minutes after some superb work from Gambo Muhammad to cross into this path.

And in their usual way, Kano Pillars turned on the style in the second half and earned a spot kick just past the hour mark.

Sunshine Stars goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, already having a good game saved the spot kick of Nigerian international midfielder, Rabiu Ali.

Dele Olorundare scored for Sunshine Stars on 71 minutes to put them on level terms.

Ten minutes later, Sunshine Stars stunned their hosts when Kingsley Eduwo turned home the ball after Pillars failed to clear their lines.

But Gambo popped up in the last minute of added time to score the equaliser and ensure that Kano Pillars extend their unbeaten run in the Nigerian league to 173 games.

In Port Harcourt, Ifeanyi Inyam's early goal was enough to help Sharks claim the full points against Lobi Stars while Gombe United and Bayelsa United fired blanks at the Pantami Stadium.

Nasarawa United took the lead against Akwa United through Habu Ali on 60 minutes after a goalless first 45 minutes.

But Akwa United captain, Nnamso Edo, scored from a free kick just before full time to take a point away from the Lafia club.

After a heavy downpour held up the game in Ibadan for several minutes, Crown FC left it late to beat Heartland. Former Gombe United man, Frank Chukwujekwu scored the winner.