Sunshine Stars of Akure have resurrected their hopes of securing a continent spot finish and possibly winning the NPFL title this season with a 1-1 draw against Bendel Insurance of Benin.
The match which took place at the Mobolaji Johnson stadium in Lagos was the second match for both sides in the super six competitions.
Both sides came into the match seeking a much needed win to kickstart their super six campaign. While Sunshine Stars lost their first match 1-0 to Rivers United, Bendel Insurance played a barren draw against Lobi Stars of Markurdi to earn one point on the log.
However, it did not take the Edo state outfit too long before Divine Nwachukwu handed them the lead on the 7th minute of the encounter. His goal moved Bendel Insurance up the table and condemned Sunshine Stars rooted to the bottom of the table. The situation was the same till the half-time break.
Sunshine Stars had to toil very hard and wait till the 67th minute before Udom Ekerette scored to draw them level in the match. His strike also had significant impact on movements on the log as Sunshine Stars moved off the basement and were one point behind their opponent.
With both sides unable to score the winner, they had to settle for a 1-1 draw. As it stands, every team in the competition is capable of qualifying for continental competitions and win the NPFL title as the margins are currently very close after two matches.
