A 42nd-minute goal by striker Lucky Emmanuel was enough on Sunday to earn Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Barau FC in a fiercely contested matchday 37 Nigeria Premier Football League fixture.
The victory at the packed Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, also kept the hopes of the Oluyole Warriors’ continental ambition alive as they moved to the third spot on the NPFL table with 60 points.
Backed by a stadium filled to capacity, the Oluyole Warriors understood the importance of the fixture and responded with composure despite the pressure from the visitors.
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The breakthrough eventually came in the 42nd minute when Emmanuel calmly slotted home from close range to send home fans into wild celebration.
The goal takes Emmanuel’s tally to 12 this season.
Recall that Emmanuel netted a double in the 3-2 victory over Nasarawa United penultimate Sunday.
Meanwhile, the Oluyole Warriors will have their final matchday fixture of the season against Niger Tornadoes in Minna.
Speaking after the match, Shooting Stars coach, Nurudeen Aweroro, praised the commitment of his players and insisted the team would remain focused until the final game of the season.
“We are not relenting until the last game is won in Minna,” he said.
Aweroro also appreciated the fans and supporters for their massive backing throughout the campaign and especially in the crucial encounter against Barau FC.
