Kayode John
Remo Stars recorded a 1-0 victory over Sunshine Stars of Akure on Saturday, in a Week 2 clash of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) in Ikenne.
Remo Stars have now earned back-to-back wins in this new campaign, following their 2-0 victory over Abia Warrirors at the Umuahia Township Stadium last weekend.
Playing their first home game of the season, the hosts started the South-West derby on the front foot, putting Kennedy Boboye’s side under pressure early on in the game.
Remo Stars went into the lead after just seven minutes through Shuaib Ibrahim, who scored a debut goal in the colours of the Sky Blue Stars. Ibrahim met a lofted ball from Ifeanyi Anaemena, beat a defender and finished beautifully.
Super Eagles defender, Sodiq Ismail, tormented Sunshine Stars down the right hand flank occasionally and he was close to bagging an assist just before the half-time whistle, but Togolese forward Franck Mawuena could only put his header wide.
Sunshine Stars made efforts to get back into the game after the interval, and they were close to leveling in the 75th minute. Nduka Junior had to make a goal-line clearance to maintain Remo Stars’ lead.
Presented with a chance to double their lead two minutes later, Sikiru Alimi, who was free on the left, went for goal by himself but he wasted the opportunity.
Goalkeeper Obassa Adebiyi made a crucial save to preserve Remo Stars’ one-goal in the 87th minute when he stopped a brilliant free kick.
<span;>Despite four minutes of added time, the home side held on for 100 percent win record so far this season.
