#NPFL21 leaders Nasarawa United had their unbeaten start to the season snapped after a brilliant header from Mohamed Zulfikul handed them a narrow 1-0 defeat in Julatten, Jos on Friday.
Zulfikul’s stunning header in the first half proved to be the difference in what was the opening game of match day 7 in the 2021 NPFL season.
Nasarawa’s defeat means the Solid Miners have now lost on each of their last five visits to Jos.
Plateau United dominated proceedings from start to finish in the derby and should have had more goals but for their unfortunate profligacy.
The hosts came out blazing in the second half after a largely quiet opening half, which was settled by Zulfikul who headed home Amos Gyan’s superb delivery to put the home side ahead.
Isah Ndah nearly doubled their lead on the half hour mark but watched helplessly as his stunning effort came off the crossbar.
18 minutes later, Plateau United hit the bar again after another beautiful passage of play but once again the bar came to Nasarawa’s rescue.
The home side pushed on for more goals but the leaders held on for a narrow escape as they would be happy to have avoided a very heavy defeat.
On the log table, Plateau United have moved up to 5th on 11 points, the same as 4th placed Lobi Stars, who have a game in hand, a three points adrift of their visitors in Jos and leaders, Nasarawa.
Up next for both teams, Nasarawa host Enyimba at the Lafia Township stadium, while Plateau will be on the road as they face Warri Wolves in Warri on Match day 8.
