Lobi Stars secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Plateau United in a thrilling derby clash at the Lafia City Stadium.
Waheed Adebayo’s decisive strike before halftime proved to be the difference-maker, earning Lobi Stars the coveted bragging rights.
Rejuvenated Lobi Stars goalkeeper Daniel Emmanuel made several stunning saves in the early proceedings, aided by his sharp reflexes, to keep the scoreline 0-0. He thwarted the efforts of Mafeng Pam and Michael Ibeh on two occasions.
Coach Daniel Amokachi’s side kept their calm and responded in the 40th minute with multiple efforts.
However, Plateau United goalkeeper Emeka Nwabula stood firm, denying John Lazarus’s close-range attempts and two follow-up rebounds from Liman Ahmadu and Segun Oloruntoba.
The breakthrough arrived in the 45th minute when youngster Segun Oloruntoba expertly manoeuvred his way into the box and laid the ball off to Waheed Adebayo, who scored from close range to give Lobi Stars a 1-0 advantage at the break.
Both teams returned for the second half, and Lobi Stars held on to their lead with good defending prowess.
Despite efforts by Coach Mbwas Mangut’s side to restore parity, they proved abortive, earning Lobi Stars an important victory in front of their numerous fans.
The victory has moved Lobi Stars to 15th position after 17 games, securing 19 points.
In his post-match reaction, Coach Mika Lönnström praised his side for playing good football.
“The team played good football with good defending, the first half was fantastic, and the three points secured are important for us,” he stated.
Up next, Lobi Stars will travel to Edo State to face Insurance FC of Benin on matchday 18.
