Date: 2017-01-16

Katsina United and Abubakar Bukola Saraki FC both emerged winners in their NPFL 2016/17 Match Day One ties which marked their return to the elite division class after some seasons in the lower league.

Katsina United led by Bala Nikyu prevailed over their foes, Gombe United at the Karkanda International Stadium 2-1 yesterday while ABS overpowered Akwa United 3-1 at the Kwara State Sports Complex, Ilorin.

ABS' Mohammed Mohammed fired the Ilorin side ahead in the 12th minute but Akwa United equalised through Godspower Igudia in the 19th minute.

The Ilorin side led again in the 30th minute after Stone Evbuomwan converted a spot kick awarded his side while Abubakar Chindo made the day safe with the third goal in the 65th minute.

In Katsina, Tasiu Lawal scored the club's first league goal on their return to the NPFL early in the tie before Manir Ubale drew his side level but the hosts had the last laugh when Suleiman Ibrahim scored the second which turned out to be the winning goal in the 36th minute.