And to ensure they don’t lose sight of Akwa United, Nasarawa United also drubbed hapless Sunshine Stars 4-0 at the Lafia township stadium.
2021 NPFL leading goalscorer, Silas Nwankwo scored a brace in the 11th and 16th minute before Aliyu Abdullahi and Chigozie Obasi scored a goal each the 23rd and 4oth minute to complete the eclipsing of the stars from Akure.
At the Ahmadu Bello stadium Kaduna, Rabiu Ali scored from the spot in the 54th minute to hand Kano Pillars the crucial victory over Abia Warriors to remain in third place.
Enyimba also survived MFM’s scare to win 2-1 in Aba to stay close to Pillars for a possible take over of the third spot.
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Goal runs the rule over the individual performances of the Orlando Pirates players after the Soweto giants' 1-0 defeat to the Nigerian giants Enyimba on Thursday morning
Buoyed by Governor Nyesom Wike’s donation of a luxurious bus and pledge of N20m for them to beat their opponents, Rivers United confidently set off proceedings in Aba but their host wasted no time in seizing the initiative from them.
However, before both sides could settle into the contest, there was a heavy downpour that forced the match to a halt momentarily.
When play resumed, Imo Obot’s free kick caused problems in Rivers United box but they succeeded in getting the ball out before their danger man Godwin Aguda’s effort was cleared at the other end.
Former African champions, Enyimba FC yesterday subdued hard fighting Nasarawa United 2-1 at the Lafia Township stadium to go top of the Nigeria Professional Football League with 18 points from eight matches played so far.
However, Enyimba FC with inferior goal difference will drop down to second position, if Rivers United who presently occupy the 2nd position would defeat Katsina United in their week 8 match to be decided this afternoon in Katsina.
Although Nasarawa United were desperate to return to winning ways after their first defeat of the season at Plateau United, it was visiting Enyimba who drew the first blood in the 16th minute when Abdullahi Abubakar deflected Tosin Omoleye’s cross into his own net.