The People's Elephants have risen to the top of the table after they secured a narrow victory against visiting Coach Baba Ganaru's men in Wednesday's NPFL Week 24 match in Aba
Enyimba climbed to the zenith of the Nigeria Professional Football League with a 1-0 victory over reigning champions Kano Pillars in a Week 24 clash on Wednesday.
Ifeanyi George's winner helped coach Kadiri Ikhana's men step up their chase for the league title as they pulled off the vital home victory against the reigning champions at the Enyimba International Stadium.
The hosts set-up nicely with great ambition to win despite being without key players like captain Chinedu Udoji and injured Christian Obiozor.
Nineteen minutes in, Mfon Udoh attempted a shot from the edge of Pillars' goal area, but the effort went off target and forced their visitors into conceding fouls and getting cautioned.
The title holders failed to upstage their hosts as they conceded a penalty in the 27th minute after a Pillars defender handled the ball inside the box.
In the 28th minute, Ifeanyi George netted from the spot to put Ikhana's men in front and ended the half 1-0.
Enyimba resumed the second half in top form as they ended the first half with Kingsley Sokari coming close to scoring in the 47th minute, but his effort from the edge of the box sailed off target.
In the 73rd minute, Pillars had their own chance from a free-kick, but were denied by the Enyimba goalkeeper.
Eighth minutes later, Peter Onyekachi sneaked through and fired in a low shot but Theophilus Afelokhai was on hand to save the visitors.
Enyimba held onto their slim 1-0 lead and had their aspiration to contend for the title handed a huge reward as they overtook Sunshine Stars at the league summit.
However, the defeat for Pillars condemned Sai Masu Gida to their first defeat in at last six games and five games under returnee coach Mohammed Baba Ganaru.
Enyimba now have 45 points while while Kano Pillars remain on 37 points both from 24 games. [GOAL]
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