BY OUR CORRESPONDENT IN JOS
PLATEAU UNITED produced a performance for the ages as star striker Vincent Temitope fired a clinical brace to down Enugu Rangers 2-1 in a pulsating NPFL encounter at the Jos International Stadium.
In a clash that lived up to its heavyweight billing, it was the “Star of the Plateau” who shone brightest.
Temitope needed just 15 minutes to make his mark, ghosting past the Rangers backline to slot home a cool opener that sent the home crowd into raptures.
But the Flying Rangers, showing the grit that has kept them in the title hunt, refused to lie down.
Midfield maestro Chidiebere Nwobodo reminded everyone why he’s one of the league’s most feared creators, pulling the strings before smashing home a deserved equalizer in the 28th minute.
The game turned into a tactical chess match between two of the NPFL’s brightest managerial stars, but it was a moment of madness in the Rangers box that decided it.
Just five minutes before the break, a frantic scramble led to a penalty.
Up stepped the man of the hour, Temitope, who showed nerves of steel to drill the ball home for his second of the afternoon.
Despite a late onslaught from the Enugu giants, Plateau’s defense—anchored by the indomitable Daniel Itodo—held firm. Itodo’s legendary long throws provided more than just a defensive outlet; they were a constant thorn in the side of the visitors.
While Rangers’ Saviour Isaac tried his best to spark a second-half comeback with some dazzling footwork, the day belonged to the boys in Jos.
The victory lifts Plateau United further away from the danger zone and leaves the star-studded Rangers wondering what might have been.
One thing is certain: if Vincent Temitope keeps up this “five-star” form, the rest of the NPFL better watch out.
