Nasarawa United climbed back to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League after a decisive 1–0 win over Shooting Stars, inspired by substitute Moyi Hassan in a rescheduled Matchday 16 tie at the Lafia City Stadium on Monday evening.
Hassan, who replaced the injured Chidera Nduka in the 34th minute, became the hero of the night with a clinical 66th-minute strike, which happened to be his first goal of the season.
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After a tightly contested first half, the defensive midfielder pounced inside the box and powered a low drive past goalkeeper God’sGift Elkanah to hand the Solid Miners a crucial victory that pushed them to 30 points, two clear of second-placed Ikorodu City.
Head coach Abubakar Arikya praised his team’s effort, saying the win was well deserved.
“We are grateful to God for today’s win, which moved us to the top of the table. We played better and earned it, even though Shooting Stars gave us a real fight,” he said, already shifting focus to next weekend’s derby against Plateau United.
For Shooting Stars, the evening fell short of expectations. Coach Nurudeen Aweroro admitted disappointment but remained optimistic.
“It’s a disappointing result for us, but we are grateful to God. Nasarawa United are a good side, and luck was on their side today. We won’t relent; we will regroup and push on,” he stated.
There was no hiding the joy on the face of match-winner Hassan, who described the moment as special. “I’m excited to score the only goal that gave my team the maximum points. It’s my first of the season,” he said. “We worked hard for this game, and it feels great to make our fans happy. I hope to help the team with more goals — maybe seven or even ten.”
Supported from the stands by top Nasarawa State officials and an energized home crowd, the Solid Miners delivered a solid performance that reaffirmed their title credentials.
They now turn their attention to a crucial away fixture against neighbours Plateau United next Sunday in Jos.
