Alalibo’s header earns vital win against Lobi

Somiari Alalibo’s late header handed Enyimba a 1-0 win against Lobi Stars at the Enyimba Stadium on Sunday.

Alalibo powered in his winner one minute from time to have the defending champions a much-needed winner on home turf.

The People’s Elephant were in dire need of a response following back-to-back defeats against Kano Pillars and Doma United, but were met by an obstinate Lobi Stars whose defensive solidity proved why they entered the match day as table toppers.

But Enyimba still found ways to create against a, with Elijah Akanni’s fiery strike narrowly missing target while Somiari Alalibo’s double header were cleared off.

Chijioke Mbaoma and promising young midfielder Chibueze Izuogu also came close as the hosts stretched their dominance into the second half, but while the game seemed headed for a stalemate, Somiari Alalibo rose high to power Uwana Asuquo long throw into the near post.

It was the second time in three home matches that Alalibo had become the match winner, the first being his powerful free kick against Akwa United in October.