Lobi Stars moved two points clear at the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) after edging neighbours Nasarawa United 2-1 in a highly entertaining derby at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi.

A long-range freekick from Chigozie Obasi and a tap-in from Samad Kadiri in either half ensured that Lobi Stars returned to winning ways at home after the disappointing draw to Dakkarda FC last weekend.

The match started at a very high pace with Nasarawa United dominating and the best chance falling to Anas Yusuf but his effort was saved by Lobi Stars’ goalkeeper Faith James.

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This proved to be a critical chanced missed for Nasarawa United as against the run of play Lobi Stars earned a freekick just outside the penalty area which Obasi converted with a thunder strike that gave the keeper no chance.

Both teams created chances but were unable to convert as the 1st half ended with Lobi Stars leading by a goal.

Lobi should have doubled the lead in the 74th minute when Obasi’s long-range shot was poorly parried out by Nasarawa keeper. However, Kadiri failed to score from the rebound.

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Nasarawa United mounted pressure as they tried to equalize but it was Lobi Stars that doubled the lead in the 90th minute as Kadiri scored from close range after a beautiful cross from Utibe Arit following a beautiful counter-attack.

Nasarawa United pulled a goal back through Substitute and debutante Chinedu Ohanachom in the 93rd minute but it proved to be a consolation goal.

Source: npfl.ng

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