Lobi Stars hopes of winning a first Nigeria Professional Football League title suffered a hitch after they went down to a 1-0 defeat against Enyimba in their rescheduled matchday 21 encounter at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar on Wednesday.
Abdulrahman Bashir headed home the winner in the 51st minute following a cross by Andrew Abalogu.
Lobi Stars came close to scoring twice in the game through Anthony Okpotu and new signing Hope Fiberesima but both efforts hit the woodwork.
Enyimba captain Mfon Udoh made his first appearance this season after recovering from a long-term injury, coming on for Joseph Osadiaye three minutes from the end.
It was Lobi Stars’ second defeat in 10 NPFL games and they remain top of the table with 43 points, five more than second-placed Akwa United.
Enyimba who have managed just a win in their last three matches in all competitions going into the game moved from ninth to sixth position and have now garnered 34 points.