By our stringer in Lafia
LAFIA – Nasarawa United maintained their strong home record yesterday, grinding out a vital 1-0 victory over rivals Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in a fiercely contested Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter.
The difference-maker came, as it often does for the ‘Solid Miners,’ in the familiar surroundings of the Lafia City Stadium.
The capital of Nasarawa State proved to be a fortress once again, with the home side’s passionate fans creating an intimidating atmosphere that clearly rattled the visiting Oluyole Warriors.
The decisive blow was landed in the 65th minute, when an inspired move down the left flank culminated in a clinical finish.
While Shooting Stars battled hard to find an equaliser, Nasarawa’s defence, marshalled expertly on their home turf, stood firm to deny the visitors any clear-cut opportunities.
The result is a testament to Nasarawa United’s reliance on their home ground.
They consistently turn the Lafia City Stadium into a difficult trip for any NPFL side, and this latest win over a respected name like 3SC will be a huge confidence booster.
For Shooting Stars, the long trip back to Ibadan will be a sombre one, reflecting on a missed opportunity to climb the table.
They now face the task of recovering from another loss away from home, having been simply unable to break down a side perfectly comfortable in their own, compact arena.
The win sees Nasarawa United solidify their position in the top half of the table, proving that when the fans turn out in Lafia, the result usually follows.
