By Suoyo Ekubo
Rivers United moved a step closer to winning a first Nigeria Professional Football League title following a 2-0 win against Plateau United in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Stanley Eguma’s side have also now opened a 10-point lead over second-placed Plateau United.
The hosts were awarded a penalty on 32nd minutes after Chijoke Akuneto was upended inside the box.
Akuneto dusted himself up to send Suraj Ayeleso the wrong way.
Akuneto put the game beyond the visitors as he scrambled home Rivers United’s second goal of the game eight minutes from time.
In the South West derby, Shooting Stars held visiting Remo Stars to a 1-1 draw at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Experienced forward Sikiru Alimi put Remo Stars in front from the spot on seven minutes.
3SC equalised five minutes later with Emmanuel Lucky nodding home Sunday Akleche’s free kick.
In Awka, Rangers boosted their chances of securing third spot courtesy of a hard-fought 2-1 win against Wikki Tourists.
Christian Nnaji nodded home Eso Archibong’s corner kick to hand Rangers the lead on 13 minutes.
Christopher John however equalised for the visitors seven minutes before the break.
Nnaji netted the winning goal for Rangers on 49 minutes.
Elsewhere, Chukwuemeka Obioma and Samuel Stone were on target as Enyimba pip Sunshine Stars 2-0.
Holders Akwa United were held to a 0-0 draw by MFM in Uyo.
