Rivers United defeated Abia Warriors 1-0 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka stadium on Sunday, as they ended their streak of four games without a win.
The win ensured that they displaced Remo Stars at the top of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table.
Rivers United coach, Finidi George made one change from the goalless draw against Remo Stars as Mathias Samuel returned to the starting eleven. The captain, Temple Emekayi partnered Manyo Stephen in midfield while Timothy Zachariah led the team in attack.
The first half ended goalless as both teams were unable to convert the chances they created. In search of a goal, Finidi George introduced Abba Suleiman, Ndifreke Effiong, and Austin Osayende to replace Okon Aniekeme, Mathias Samuel, and Timothy Zachariah.
Finidi’s tactical acumen yielded profits as just five minutes after the triple substitution, Ndifreke Effiong who was one of the substitutes, put Rivers United in front from the spot. The Pride of Rivers held the lead till the full time whistle to get back to winning ways after a tough month.
With the win, Rivers United have now recorded 25 points in 12 games, two points ahead of Remo Stars who lost to Katsina United 2-0. They will face Sunshine Stars on Wednesday, November 27 as they hope to extend their lead at the top while Abia Warriors will host Katsina United on the same day.
