A lone goal by Jamiu Onikoko of Abubakar Bukola Saraki, Ilorin FC edged out Osun United in the Nigeria National League Matchday 17 encounter.

The match was played at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbow of George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin on Saturday.

It was a crucial encounter with ABS Ilorin FC needing a win to stay afloat while Osun United sought a win to keep their promotion hopes alive.

ABS went into the game the hungrier of the two sides and the early pressure paid off when Onikoko struck in the opener from a goal-mouth scramble which proved pivotal for the Ilorin-based club.

Coach Anthony Encho of ABS expressed his excitement following the hard-fought victory, stating that it was the best game of his career.

Mr Encho said, “I am the happiest person today because this game was so important. Playing a team which is second on the log aiming for promotion, it wasn’t an easy game. This would serve as one of my best games. I tried to psyche my boys to ensure we got the needed points, and they listened to instructions. Osun are our neighbours, and they had the advantage to intimidate us, but by the grace of God, we got the results.”

The victory takes ABS FC up the ladder to seventh on Conference B with nineteen points with a clash against Godswil Akpabio FC in Uyo to come next.

(NAN)