Nigeria Professional Football League defending champions Kano Pillars Tuesday evening bounced back to the first position of the on going 2012/2013 league season after a late 1-0 win over title rivals Enyimba in a replayed week 31 tie in Lokoja. A stoppage time goal by substitute Manir Ubale gave Pillars vital three points from this match behind closed doors after the Week 31 clash in Kano was abandoned following crowd trouble.
The defending champions stepped up their game in the second half and they were rewarded late on.
Enyimba goalkeeper Femi Thomas pulled off the biggest save of the day when he kept out a goal-bound header inside the box by Shehu Abdullahi after 64 minutes.
Bello Kofarmata also saw his shot blocked by Thomas in the 70th minute as Pillars piled on the pressure in a bid to win this very crucial game.
Enyimba were more threatening going forward in the first half as they created more of the chances.
A 15th minute goal by Victor Ezeji was disallowed for offside.
Pillars now have 60 points from 35 matches, while Enyimba are fourth on 56 points.
