By Amaechi Agbo

Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, defending Champions, Rangers International FC of Enugu’s quest to pick a continental ticket suffered a major set back on Thursday as they lost, yet again, at home.

The eight-time champions lost 0-1 at home against Plateau United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.

Suleiman Mojereola scored the only goal of the match for the visitors on the dot of 73rd after Rangers defence were cut off guard

Prior, the visitors had dominated the first half but the restart saw Rangers inject new players that almost got the curtain raiser but for Plateau United goalkeeper’s heroics which kept them at bare.

The introduction of former Super Eagles player, Uchebo by Rangers added no vive as Rangers were condemned to their fourth home defeat of the season.

Rangers had lost 3-4 to Kano Pillars, 0-1 to Shooting Stars and 1-2 to Niger Tornados. Thursday’s defeat leaves the champion’s continental ticket push in tatters as they are five points below 3rd placed Abia Warriors and 15 points behind leaders, Remo Stars.

On the other hand, today’s victory is a huge boost for Plateau United as they continue their quest to avoid relegation. The Jos based side are now 11th on the log..

In other results, Remo Stars continued their quest for their first league title in superb form as they set aside former Champions, Enyimba FC 2-0 in Ikenne. Two goals in either half gave them the three points as they now have 60 points from 31 matches, 8 points above second placed Rivers United.

Akwa United continued their new form, winnng two consecutive matches as they intensify their push to escape relegation. They defeated Niger Tornados 2-0 while El Kanemi Warriors rallied from two goals down to draw 2-2 against visiting Shooting Stars.

NPFL Matchday 31 results:

Rangers 0-1 Plateau United
Remo Stars 2-0 Enyimba
El Kanemi Warriors 2-2 Shooting Stars
Akwa United 2-0 Niger Tornados
Abia Warriors 2-0 Lobi Stars
Bayelsa United 1-0 Rivers United
Kano Pillars 0-0 Bendel Insurance
Kwara United 1-0 Nasarawa United
Sunshine Stars 0-0 Heartland
Ikorodu City vs Katsina United, Postponed.