NPFL: Shooting Stars rout Abia Warriors as four clubs sit level on 18 points

Shooting Stars moved up to ninth in the NPFL after a convincing 4-1 victory over Abia Warriors on Matchday 11, while four teams ended the weekend tied at the top of the table on 18 points.

The Ibadan side, also known as 3SC, now have 15 points from 11 matches. Abia Warriors remain 15th with 10 points.

Rivers United missed the chance to move clear after being held to a 1-1 draw by Enugu Rangers in the weekend’s headline fixture. Rangers’ goal was scored by Godwin Obaje, according to the league’s website.

Bendel Insurance joined the leading group with a 2-1 away win against Kwara United, while Kano Pillars also reached 18 points by beating Nasarawa United 2-0. Nasarawa United are fifth on 17 points.

Matchday 11 results

Katsina United defeated Sporting Lagos 2-1, and Enyimba secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Kun Khalifat.

Plateau United drew 1-1 with Warri Wolves, while Inter Lagos and Ranchers Bees also finished level at 1-1. Doma United and Ikorodu City shared four goals in a 2-2 draw.

The round began on Friday, when Niger Tornadoes and Barau played out a goalless draw.

Tight race at the top

The NigFooty table shows that Rivers United and Kano Pillars have each played 11 matches. Bendel Insurance have played 10, while Enugu Rangers have played only nine.

That gives Rangers two games in hand over Rivers United and Kano Pillars, with Bendel Insurance holding one match in hand. Victories in those outstanding fixtures could take either Rangers or Bendel to the top of the table.

Rivers United currently have the strongest goal difference among the leading sides at +10. However, only two points separate first place from eighth, with Niger Tornadoes, Barau and Plateau United all on 16 points.

The results mean another round of fixtures could significantly change the make-up of the top eight.

At the other end of the table, Doma United and Sporting Lagos are both on seven points. Inter Lagos have eight points from 10 matches.

Rangers’ domestic campaign is now being assessed alongside their CAF Champions League exit to MC Alger, while Rivers United’s league run was covered in the Matchday 11 preview.

The next round of NPFL fixtures is due to take place later this week.