Ali’s hat-trick lifts Kano Pillars as 3SC, Wolves win

Rabiu Ali’s hat trick helped former Nigeria Professional Football League champions, Kano Pillars, came from behind to defeat 10 man Akwa United 3-2 in one of the Week Five matches played at the weekend.

Ali scored his first goal in the 14th minute to cancel out Michael Okoro’s early goal for Akwa United before giving his team the lead in the 26th minute.

With the first half rounding up, former Pillars striker, Ubong Ekpai, restored parity with the half ending 2-2.

Akwa United were barely settled in the second half when Ali completed his hat trick before Ekpai was given his marching order after a second yellow card.

Champions Enyimba’s indifferent start to the new season continued with another loss against El-Kanemi Warriors. The People’s Elephant lost 2-0 as they propped up the table in 17th position.

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MFM moved joint top with Rangers and Kano Pillars after recording a goalless draw against Ikorodu United in a Lagos derby despite playing the second half with 10 men. Bashiru Monsuru was sent off in the extra time of the first half.

Shooting Stars won 2-1 against Giwa FC in Ibadan while Sunshine Stars’ last minute goal saved them from losing at home against IfeanyiUbah FC, the game ended 1-1.

Warri Wolves’ early goal in the 5th minute was enough to send Niger Tornadoes back empty handed with Rivers United leaving it late till the additional time of the 90 minutes to defeat Nasarawa United 1-0.

Earlier on Saturday, Rangers defeated Wikki Tourists 1-0 to move to the top of the league table.

 

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