By Amaechi Agbo

Niger Tornadoes failed to get the crucial results they needed on Sunday to consolidate their Nigeria Premier Football League Super 6 aspiration after they suffered a one-nil defeat in a North-Central Derby against Lobi Stars in Jos.

However, the defeat, though painful, but the Minna based side’s Super 6 qualification hopes have not faded.

Francis Odinaka’s early second half goal won the game for hosts Lobi Stars in an NPFL matchday16 encounter decided at the New Jos Stadium.

The two teams sized each other up in the first half a handful of chaches created but wrapped it with out hitting the net.

Hostilities resumed for the second half and the hosts found their rythm early enough as Francis Odinaka powered home a bullet shot that sailed into the net in the 48th minute to put the hosts ahead.

Most part of the second half was played under the rain and Tornadoes siezed control of the game after going behind as they began to throw everything into the game all in a bid to find the leveler but Lobi Stars stood firm and guided their lead until the blast of the whistle in what was an entertaining display of football as fans applauded Tornadoes off for their unique pattern of play which caught the eyes and left the fans happy for a time well spent.

The result means Niger Tornadoes moved a place down on the log with Abia Warriors jumping above after snatching a home win as the battle for Super 6 intensifies.

In the Group B standings, Niger Tornadoes are 5th, one point behind 3rd placed Abia Warriors

Niger Tornadoes will be home in Kaduna for their matchday17 game against Sunshine Stars on Saturday, May 7