Two late goals by super substitute Jabbar Malik were enough for Remo Stars to defeat Bayelsa United at Ikenne and reclaim top spot in the Nigerian Professional Football league as title contenders, Rivers United failed to win at the Lafia City stadium, Nasarawa on Sunday.
Prior to the fixtures, Rivers United were on top of the table with 32 points in 17 games while Remo Stars sat second with one point less in the same number of games. As such, both teams needed favorable results to challenge in what is becoming an intense title race.
The game in Ikenne was bound for a stalemate as Bayelsa United defended brilliantly to keep out the hosts from scoring. However, the strength in depth of Remo was showcased as two substitutes, Haruna Hadi and Jabbar Malik combined to give the home side the lead in the 84th minute courtesy of the latter’s powerful header into the back of the net.
Jabbar Malik then doubled the lead of the hosts just five minutes later to seal the win for Remo stars and take them back to the top of the table. Despite their many absentees, Remo Stars were able to grind out another win at home, increasing their unbeaten run at Ikenne this season to nine games.
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At the Lafia City stadium, the Solid miners led early in the game courtesy of John Joshua’s brilliant strike to beat Osagie Onisodumeya. However, the away side responded just after half time as Kabir Abdullahi drew them level from the spot.
Despite their attempts to lead the game, Rivers United were unable to score and they had to settle for a point, increasing their winless run away from home to five games.
With the results, Remo Stars are now back on top of the table with 33 points in 18 games. However, they are tied with Rivers United on points and they are only above the “pride of Rivers” on goal difference.
Remo United will host Akwa United in their next game as they seek to close out the year on top of the table while Rivers United will host Plateau United with the aim of getting back to winning ways.
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