Abahani Limited’s Ghanaian forward Ntiny Tuwanu Frank (R) celebrates after scoring one of his two goals against Arambagh Krira Shangha with team-mate Nasir during their Bangladesh Premier League match at the Bangabandhu National Stadium on Thursday. — New Age photo

Abahani’s Ghanaian striker Ntiny Tuwanu Frank scored a brace as the Dhanmondi outfit extended their lead at the top of the Bangladesh League with a 2-0 win over Arambagh Krira Sangha on Thursday.
A prolific Frank did not let his coach Ali Akbar feel the absence of their ace striker Lucky Paul by scoring one goal each in the either half to secure their victory at the Bangabandhu National Stadium.
Paul suffered a severe leg injury during the team’s training on Tuesday.
Frank, who returned from injury after three matches to replace Paul, scored opening goal for Abahani from a penalty after Arambagh defender Jahidul Hasan Dalim had fouled Abahani winger Zahid Hossain inside the box the sixth minute.
Abahani dominated their bottom-of-the-table opponents as expected and they doubled the lead in the 55th minute when Frank’s long range effort flew into the Arambagh net after deflecting off defender Abul Kashem who was standing in the six-yard box.
The league leaders, however, also had some anxious moments as Arambagh, desperate to avoid relegation, created some good chances but Abahani defence was strong enough to prevent their opponents from scoring.
Arambagh’s Nigerian striker Elita Kingsley’s header from close range beat Abahani goalkeeper Shahidul Alam Sohel but defender Mohammad Sujon made a goal-line save to deny him.
Abahani are now on 30 points they earned from 12 matches, six points above second-placed Muktijoddha Sangsad who also played 12 matches.
The loss, on the other hand, increased Arambagh’s relegation tension as they are at the bottom of the 11-team league with nine points in their tally.