Sunshine Stars of Akure returned to winning ways on Sunday as they defeated Akwa United at the Ondo State Sport Complex, Akure to ease their relegation worries and boost their chances of maintaining their top flight status next season.
The Ondo State owned team who were knocked out of the President Federation Cup by Kano Pillars in their last match did what needed to be done as they took all three points against their visitors in a very important home match.
The Akure Gunners secured a precious 2-0 victory over Akwa United thanks to a quick fire brace from Ibrahim Yusuf who came on as a second half substitute.
Ibrahim Yusuf, who came on in the 57th minute of the encounter, scored twice in two minutes to give home fans hopes of their darling team surviving the drop. He scored in the 74th and 76th minutes to bury Akwa United before they could get themselves back into the match.
As it stands, Sunshine Stars have 46 points from 35 matches and occupy 11th position on the log. They are still in the relegation battle but may confirm their survival during the next round of matches if they manage to secure a win and results in other matches favour them.
Meanwhile, the Oriental derby between Rangers of Enugu and Enyimba of Aba was abandoned after Enyimba players and officials walked off the pitch and fans invaded the pitch.
Enyimba players and officials walked away from the match after a controversial penalty was awarded in favour of the home team deep into injury time. The referee had initially made an offside call but later changed his decision after some Rangers fans clashed with Enyimba players afterwards.
The Enyimba players, who felt aggrieved by the referee’s decision left the pitch as the referee insisted that the penalty decision stands.
The match was eventually abandoned by the match officials which led to fans from both teams storming the football pitch in what was a sad end to an entertaining match which had a massive attendance inside the Cathedral.
The League management body is expected to make decisions on the abandoned match soon.
