Rangers extend NPFL lead

Enugu Rangers strengthened their grip on the Nigeria Premier Football League title race with a 1-0 victory over Kwara United on Sunday, while Enyimba’s struggles deepened following a 2-1 defeat to Ranchers Bees.

Victor Chimezie’s 40th minute strike was the difference on Sunday as they Flying Antelopes continued their impressive run with another narrow victory, having beaten Bendel Insurance 1-0 in their rescheduled fixture on Wednesday.

The latest three points further boosted Rangers’ position at the summit as they seek to maintain their advantage over their closest challengers, moving to 24 points with a game at hand.

At the other end of the table, Enyimba suffered another setback in Minna, where Ranchers Bees claimed a 2-1 win at the Bako Kontagora Stadium.

The defeat continued a difficult spell for the nine-time champions, who have struggled to put together consistent results this season. Having lost to Katsina United and Shooting Stars earlier in the campaign, the Aba side are facing increasing pressure to improve their performances and move away from the relegation battle.

Nasarawa United also enjoyed a convincing outing, beating Plateau United 3-1 in Lafia. Plateau’s task was made more difficult after Sabbath Mancha was sent off, leaving the visitors to negotiate the remainder of the encounter with 10 men.

Abia Warriors remain embroiled in the fight to escape the relegation zone after settling for a 2-2 draw against Doma United.

The Umuahia-based side fell behind early when Tijani Azeez opened the scoring in the fifth minute, but Emeka Obioma restored parity in the 37th minute. Samuel Akpan put Doma United back in front in the 69th minute before Obioma struck again in the 79th minute to rescue a point for the hosts. The result leaves Abia Warriors still under pressure as they battle to secure their top-flight status.

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