Rangers International dug deep to secure 2 – 0 win over fierce rivals Enyimba of Aba in an oriental derby.
The Flying Antelopes hosted the Caf Confederation campaigners at the Nnamdi Azikwe stadium for their first meeting of the season.
Enyimba came into the match at the back of disappointing 2-2 draw against FC and coach Fatai Osho responded by making a lot of changes to the team.
New signings, Somiari Alalibo and Bilal Yakubu were handed their debut, while John Noble and Anayo Iwuala were dropped to the bench.
Despite the changes, Enyimba were far from their attacking best as Rangers expectedly dominated the game.
Rangers scored their first goal from penalty spot in 54th minutes after debutant Somiari Alalibo was penalised for handling the ball in the box. Christian Nnaji however converted the kick.
Rangers’ advantage was doubled by Elijah Ani who converted their second of the game in the added times.
The three points increased the Salisu Yusuf led Rangers tally for the season to 33 from 19 matches, while Enyimba have garnered 31 points from 18 matches.
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