NPFL 25: My Mission To Save Nasarawa United Is Accomplished - Salisu Yusuf

NPFL 25: My Mission To Save Nasarawa United Is Accomplished - Salisu Yusuf

Precious Oham

Salisu Yusuf has declared that his mission to save Nasarawa United from the drop has been accomplished, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

In an electrifying match-day 37 clash, the Solid Miners confirmed their spot in next season's Nigeria Premier Football League season with a breathtaking 3-2 victory over 9-time League Champions, Enyimba FC, at their makeshift home ground, the Pantami Stadium, Gombe.

Shina Kumater had given United an early lead in the 6th minute after lashing on to a rebound strike, before Anas Yusuf scored from the spot in the half-hour mark following a foul on him by Ekene Awazie inside the box, his 18th goal of the campaign.

Enyimba, however, reduced the deficit after Utake Emmanuel scored an own goal in the 33rd minute, but the scoreline remained 2-1 in favour of the hosts until both sides headed into the break.

It was game on in the 62nd minute when Chikamso Okechukwu levelled matters from the spot for the Aba Elephants.

Unperturbed by the situation, United went ahead again courtesy of returning striker, Idris Ajiya, in the 65th minute, a goal that would eventually confirm the status of the Lafia-based side in the top-flight next season, with a game to spare.

He said: "Wow, this is a great result for us, especially when you play against a big team like Enyimba, who were eyeing a continental ticket off us here, even though we were more than desirous to cement our status in the Premier League next season.

 "The game was what would determine our stay in the league because our last game of the season will be against another strong opposition away from home.

"We played very well in the first half and scored two goals, even though Enyimba both defended and threatened very well, and later reduced the deficit after we scored ourselves.

"However, we fought back and scored again, and we won 3-2. For now, the job is done, and mission accomplished, and we thank God for everything."

The result sees the Solid Miners leapfrogging to 9th position with 52 points from 37 games, just two points behind the two-time CAF Champions League winners, Enyimba FC, who are 6th.

Nasarawa United will wait for another two weeks before facing another former League winners, Rivers United, in Port Harcourt, in the final game of the season.