3SC Return To Premier League

Shooting Stars have
returned to the elite league in Nigeria after they pipped closest rivals Akwa Starlets 1-0 at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan on Saturday.
Shooting Stars, who were relegated to lower division last season, finished top of NNL Division B with 50 points from 30 matches.
Gabros also gained promotion from Division B after they won 2-0 at Ekiti United on Saturday.
Elated Oyo State commissioner for youth and sports, Umar Farouk Arisekola Alao, saluted the victorious Shooting Stars.
He said, “I’m so happy today with the performance of the team and they really made the state proud because this is the first time the team will be promoted instantly after 35 years. This is a new beginning and we are going to prepare well for the Nigeria Premier League Football.”
Experienced defender Sylvanus Ebiaku gave 3SC an early lead in fifth minute from the penalty spot after Okiki Afolabi was fouled inside the box.
Overall, it was a fitting final match between 3SC and Akwa Starlets, who gave a very good account of themselves in the first half.
Shooting Stars coach Franklin Howard shed tears of joy after his club won promotion back to Nigeria premier league over the weekend.
Howard wept uncontrollably after 3SC pipped Akwa Starlets 1-0 courtesy of a Sylvanus Ebiaku penalty goal in the fifth minute for the Ibadan to finish top of Nigeria National League Division B with 50 points.
Howard, who also gained promotion in 2010 with ‘The Oluyole Warriors’, said his tears were that of joy and accomplishment.
“I’m so happy today for the trust the management of the team has in me and the encouragement from the fans after my appointment here,” he said.
“This is the second time I will gain promotion for this team and I’m happy to work here.” Midfielder Oladele Eweje said he was delighted to have made history with 3SC and promised to stay put with the club in the top flight.
“I am very happy to have helped my club return immediately to the top division of Nigeria League. This is where we belong,” he said. Hundreds of happy fans invaded the pitch to celebrate with team after the match.