NPFL Roundup: Sporting, Rangers claim big wins as Remo Stars stumble again

It was another pulsating weekend of NPFL action, with key results at both ends of the table. 

Sporting Lagos and Enugu Rangers secured impressive home victories, while title-chasing Remo Stars suffered more derby day woes.

At the Lagos Stadium, Sporting Lagos made it back-to-back home wins by avenging their earlier defeat to Kwara United. 

The 2-0 victory courtesy of two first half goals from Pascal Durugbor and Aliu Salawudeen extended their unbeaten home run to 13 matches.

In Ibadan, the Southwest derby disappointments kept coming for Ikenne giants Remo Stars. 

After a 4-1 loss at Sporting last week, the Sky Blues were beaten 2-0 by Shooting Stars courtesy of a Christian Pygbara brace as they finished with 10 men.

At the Cathedral, Enugu Rangers closed within striking distance of leaders Lobi Stars by seeing off the Pride of Benue 2-1.

 First-half and second-half goals sealed a big three points against Lobi in a packed Cathedral in Enugu.

Elsewhere, there were comprehensive wins for Enyimba (3-1 vs Niger Tornadoes) and Bendel Insurance, who thrashed Doma United 4-0 - the biggest victory of the weekend.

Enyimba struggled to get going but later found their magic wand to dispatch their visitors while Insurance comprehensively helped Doma extend their winless streak to nine matches.

The results leave the title race finely poised, with just two points separating Lobi Stars from fourth-placed Plateau United, who lost ground after a 2-1 defeat at Katsina United.

Lobi sit top of the table with 46 points, just one point ahead of their conquerors, Rangers, with Enyimba making up the top four. 

With the second half of the season now well underway, the battle for the NPFL crown is shaping up to be a blockbuster finale.