Dolphins bounced back from their recent poor run of form with a 2-0 defeat of Enugu Rangers at the Liberation Stadium while 2013 Federation Cup finalists, Akwa United, edged struggling 3SC by a lone goal at the Uyo Township Stadium on Sunday.
David Ukeme scored the match winner in the 57th minute for coach Justin Tenger’s side, Akwa United, capitalising on defensive errors from the duo of Francis Edem and goalkeeper Dele Ajiboye to head home.
With an outstanding game against league leaders, Kano Pillars, Akwa United are now tenth on the league table with 37 points from a possible 81, while 3SC are 18th with 33 points.
In Port-Harcourt, an Austin Ekpoma’s strike in the opening minute was coupled with an Ifeanyi Egwim’s 71st minute goal as Dolphins revived their ongoing Nigeria Professional Football League campaign.
Both Dolphins and Rangers are tied on 39 points but the Enugu side boasts a superior goal difference, sitting in the 7th position, while Dolphins are ninth.
Both side’s missed a flurry of chances with an Egwim’s curled shot coming off the outside of the post in the 35th minute, while a Christian Obiazor’s effort narrowly missed the target 3 minutes later.
Rangers came close to reducing the deficit on 81 minute when an Obiazor’s heavy touch on the ball in the box allowed Festus Austin win the ball from him.
Substitute Fred Okwara let fly a late effort to pull one back for Rangers after Omo Johnson had set him up.
Lobi Stars were left ruing wasted chances after their 1-0 victory over Heartland at the Katsina-Ala Stadium on Sunday.
Douglas Achiv scored the match winner in the 17 minute from a free kick to help struggling Lobi climb to the 15th spot on the log with 35 points.
An Alaba Johnson’s brace in the 32nd and 90th minutes ensured Wikki Touirists victory over Sunshine Stars.
Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Sunday’s Results.
Wikki Tourists 2 Sunshine Stars 0
Akwa United 1 3SC 0
Lobi Stars 1 Heartland 0
Dolphins 2 Enugu Rangers 0
Kaduna United 2 Nembe City 0
