Rangers International of Enugu kept their hope of playing continental football next season alive by beating title challengers Kano Pillars.

Rangers hosted the Sai Masu Gida at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium and two first-half goals from Christian Nnaji and Esor Archibong gave them the three points.

Christian Nnaji heads Rangers in front from Tope Olusesi’s corner kick five minutes after the kick-off.

The Flying Antelopes take a two-goal lead on the 29th minute as Esor Archibong turned in Christian Nnaji’s pass from the edge of the area.

There was no further goal in the match, but both sides did earn a red card from the referee to finish the game with 10 men.

Rangers were the first to be reduced to be 10 men after their goalkeeper Nana Bonsu causes an infringement outside of his area.

Right at the death, Pillars also go a man down. Emmanuel Anyanwu was sent off for a second booking after upending Tony Shimaga.

The victory increased Rangers’ points tally to 56 and moved them to fifth position on the table. They sit two points behind Kano Pillars in third place with 58 points.