Kano Pillars have now shot within striking distance of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) leaders Lobi Stars after they beat Katsina 3-1 in a Northwest Derby yesterday.
Pillars now have 35 points from 21 matches, two points behind Lobi Stars, who have played two games less.
NPFL leading scorer Junior Lokosa scored a brace and provided an assist for Pillars, while Destiny Ashadi pulled a goal back for Katsina United.
Champions Plateau United moved to third place after they beat Nasarawa United 2-1.
The Jos team now have 33 points after 20 matches.
Abia Warriors have also climbed up the standings courtesy of a 1-0 win at MFM FC.
The Umuahia club is now eighth on 29 points.
Sunshine Stars eased their relegation fears when they stopped bottom team Heartland 2-1 at home.
Akwa United, Kwara United, FC Ifeanyiubah and Rivers United all recorded away wins at Enugu Rangers, Niger Tornadoes, Yobe Desert Stars and El Kanemi Warriors, respectively.
MATCH DAY 21
Tornadoes 1-1 Kwara Utd
Kano Pillars 3-1 Katsina Utd
Plateau Utd 2-1 Nasarawa
Go Round FC 1-0 WikkiÂ
El Kanemi 1-1 Rivers Utd
MFM FC 0-1 Abia Warriors
Rangers 0-0 Akwa Utd
Yobe Stars 1-1 Ifeanyiubah
Sunshine 2-1 Heartland
