Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) champions Plateau United have moved to within one point of league leaders Lobi Stars after two penalties propelled them to a 2-1 victory in a rescheduled game played at the New Jos Stadium on Wednesday evening.

Lobi Stars took a shock lead in the 27th minute only for them to be pegged back by their hosts when Reuben Bala scored from the spot three minutes from the halftime interval after Plateau United star Umar Zango was penalised.

Austine Ogunye was then sent off for two yellow cards as Lobi Stars were reduced to 10 men with 13 minutes left to play but much didn’t change as the game was heading for a draw until forward Jesse Akila was brought down in the box in the 86th minute.

The aforementioned Bala scored from the penalty spot again to give his side three precious points in the bid to retain the title they can not last season.

The win was enough to move Plateau United (36 points) past Kano Pillars (35 points) into second spot behind Lobi Stars (37 points) as the race for the league title hots up.