Plateau United saw their title aspiration in tatters after going down 2-0 in Okigwe to Abia Warriors in one of the fixtures of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) MatchDay 29 played on Saturday.
Innocent Gabriel and Imeh Atobasi scored for the Abia Warriors after Jesse Akila fluffed a good chance for Plateau United to take the lead on 27 minutes from the penalty spot.
The defeat left the former champions four points adrift of leaders, Rivers United who could possibly extend their lead to seven points if they win against Remo Stars in Port Harcourt on Sunday.
The home side started the game with intent early in the 3rd minute, after Paul Samson saw his effort on goal from 10 yards going off target.
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The 5th minute saw Abia Warriors’ top scorer Valentine Odoh, dribble his way from the midfield into Plateau United’s 18 yard box, but his effort at goal went inches wide.
Plateau United however had their chance to have opened scoring in the 27th minute, after Jesse Akila was upended inside the box by Abia Warriors’ defender Innocent Gabriel for a spot kick.
The resultant penalty kick by Akila was however saved by Abia Warriors Goalkeeper Pius Ibrahim.
Few minutes later in the 35th minute, Innocent Gabriel had his free kick from 25 yards which beat Plateau Utd Goalkeeper Abiodun Akande, who failed to clear his line, and Abia Warriors went into the break leading 1-0.
Plateau United came out stronger in the second half looking for an equaliser and it nearly materialised in the 50th minute when Mohammed Zulkifilu, had a chance at goal, but his shot wasn’t directed well.
In a bid to strengthen his midfield play, Abia Warriors coach Imama Amapakabor, in the 59th minute introduced Imeh Atobasi and Yakubu Hameed for Kalu Nweke and Godwin Obaje. From the Plateau bench, Fidelis Ilechukwu brought in Emmanuel Uchegbu and Abubakar Umar for Mohammed Zilkifilu and Jesse Akila in the 63rd minute.
Those changes by both managers brought more life into the game.
Despite the ceaseless pressure by Plateau United to level scores, it was Abia Warriors that increased their lead in added time, turning defensive play to offence after substitute Lukman Bello’s pass found incoming Chidi Nwachukwu on the right flank, and the midfielder wasted no time to connect Imeh Atoabasi who slotted home to hand the Umuahia-based club the maximum points.
Next up on MatchDay 30 for Abia Warriors, will be an away trip against Wikki Tourists of Bauchi, while Plateau United will host Enugu Rangers in Jos.
Man of the match:
Innocent Gabriel (Abia Warriors)