Kano Pillars stayed on course for a third straight league title when they defeated Lobi Stars 2-0 at home yesterday with their closest rivals dropping points.

Kano Pillars’ team

Pillars now have 50 points from 29 matches, while Enyimba moved into second place on 44 points after they were held at home 0-0 by regional rivals Heartland. Nasarawa slipped to fourth place after they lost 2-1 at Dolphins, who are now third on 45 points.

Goalkeeper and captain Theophilus Afelokhia gave the hosts the lead from the penalty spot in the 10th minute after Azeez Shobowale was brought down. Shobowale doubled Pillars lead to seal the victory in the 26th minute.

New boy Ubong Ekpai would have made it 3-0 for the champions, but he shot straight into the waiting hands of Terkaa Melai in Lobi Stars goal in the 52nd minute.