NPL wrap: Dolphins make winning start to title defence

Defending champions Dolphins defeated Sunshine Stars 1-0 on Saturday in the highly anticipated opening game of the Nigeria Premier League.

Former champions Enyimba, Wikki Tourists, Kano Pillars and 3SC also won at home as the 2011-12 season commenced in a rushed anticipation of nationwide labour strikes on Monday.

It was Adamu Mohammed who nodded home a cross from Emem Uduok to earn Dolphins the full points in the 84th minute of the testy encounter at the Liberation Stadium.

Enyimba defeated ABS FC 2-0 in Aba through goals from Josiah Maduabuchi, who scored in the first minute, and Uzube Anazemba on 75 minutes.

3SC recovered from an early deficit to defeat Sharks 2-1 at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan.

Bright Ejike scored for Sharks on 47 minutes before Olamakinde Talabi got 3SC back in the game later in the second half with a beautiful effort from long range. Osogona Ighodaro scored the winning goal for the home team six minutes from time.

Wiki Tourists defeated Heartland 1-0 in Bauchi off a Victor Pam goal on 20 minutes.

Gombe United beat Lobi Stars 2-0 at the Pantami Stadium in Gombe through a brace from Sanusi Sani.