NPFL: Lobi Stars down Rivers United in 5-goal thriller

Lobi Stars and Rivers United served up a sumptuous meal of football at the New Jos Stadium on Wednesday with the former winning the rescheduled Nigeria Professional Football League matchday 11 tie 3-2.

The encounter between the two top teams in Group B lived up to the hype with the fans at the edge of their seats for the entire duration of the game.

Both teams carved out chances in the first half but were unable to break the deadlock.

Ghana midfielder, Farouk Mohammed gave Rivers United the lead from a superb free-kick three minutes after the break.

The hosts levelled four minutes later courtesy of a wonder striker from Umar Abba.

The game looked to be heading for a stalemate before Wasiu Alalade put Lobi Stars in front from a John Lazarus’ cross four minutes from time.

Rivers United responded with Chiamaka Madu slotting home Ebube Duru’s cross on the stroke of 90 minutes.

There was, however, a late twist as former Rangers forward, Elijah Ani won it for Lobi Stars with a wonderful header deep into stoppage time.

Lobi Stars extended their lead at the top of the log to six points following the win, with Rivers United remaining in second position.