Lobi Stars four-match winless run ended with a slim 1-0 victory over 3SC in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) week 5 match played on Saturday, October 5, at the Lafia Township Stadium in Nasarawa.
Before the clash with 3SC, Lobi Stars had drawn one and lost three matches including the 0-1 home defeat to Rivers United in Week three.
Therefore, the 0-3 loss at Katsina United in week 4 last weekend set panic into the camp of ‘the pride of Benue’ who are prosecuting the current season under a new management.
However, against 3SC, Lobi Stars ensured they picked the maximum points to avoid an early struggle with relegation.
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Ahmadu Liman assisted last season’s highest goal scorer for Lobi Stars, Samuel Tiza, who was making his first start of the season, to score the all-important goal in the 29th minute to hand the home side the maximum points.
The visitors piled pressure on Lobi Stars to avoid a second loss on the bounce but the hosts stood firm for their first win of the season.
Lobi Stars now have five points from five matches and are temporarily occupying the 15th position on the log.
Reacting to the victory, Lobi Stars Board Member, Harry Yachi, said the win didn’t come on a silver platter.
“It was a difficult match but I thank God that we were to pick the first three points.
“I salute the boys for putting up the spirited fight that naturalised the plans of our opponents who came for victory.
“We are not resting on our oars. This victory is a morale booster and we shall build on it going forward,” said Yachi.
In the other week 5 match played in Benin City, visiting El-Kanemi Warriors surrendered their early lead to Bendel Insurance but fought hard to draw 1-1.
Nigerian international, Ibrahim Mustapha, put Warriors ahead in the 2nd minute of the match but the hosts drew level in the 19th minute when Michael Enaruna found the equaliser.
The remaining week 5 matches will be played on Sunday, October 6.
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