Rivers United returned to winning ways on Sunday, securing a crucial 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars in Port Harcourt.
Timothy Zechariah’s 88th-minute header proved to be the difference, easing the pressure on head coach Finidi George after a five-match winless streak.
The result reignites Rivers United’s title hopes, as they now sit third on the NPFL table with 38 points from 23 matches, trailing leaders Remo Stars by 10 points.
Lobi Stars, on the other hand, remain bottom of the standings, further deepening their relegation woes.
Rivers United’s last triumph before this encounter came in December against Kwara United, with the team enduring three draws and two losses in their subsequent five games.
Other NPFL results, Akwa United also ended their five-game winless run with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Enyimba FC in Uyo.
Goals from Ogunleye Olayemi and Uche Sabastine handed the Promise Keepers all three points, despite Issah Mohammed pulling one back for the visitors.
Despite the victory, Akwa United remain in the relegation zone with 23 points from 23 games.
Abia Warriors delivered a commanding 3-0 win against Sunshine Stars at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
An own goal from Chidozie Iwundu set the tone, before Antoine Ijoma and Samuel Ogunjimi sealed the victory, pushing Abia Warriors to fourth on the table while sending Sunshine Stars into the relegation battle.
In Lagos, Ikorodu City FC came from behind to beat Kwara United 2-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
READ ALSO: NPFL Enforces Stricter Contract Vetting Rules for Clubs Amid Financial Challenges
Junior Aimufua gave Kwara United an early lead, but Toyeeb Ajeyigbe quickly responded before Shola Adelani’s 64th-minute header secured all three points for the NPFL newcomers.
Niger Tornadoes and Plateau United played out a 1-1 draw, while reigning champions Rangers International were held to a goalless stalemate by Bayelsa United in Yenagoa.
With match-day 23 now concluded, teams will look ahead to their next fixtures as the NPFL title race and relegation battle intensify.