Rivers United have maintained their tight grip on the 2021/22 Nigeria Professional Football League season with a hard-fought victory over Kano Pillars.
Former Pillars striker, Nyima Nwagua broke the hearts of his former employers with the only goal of the game at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna,
Nwagua took advantage of floppy play from Pillars goalkeeper Idris Ibrahim to seal victory for Stanley Eguma’s side.
Rivers United started the faster of the two sides, with a dangerous low ball from Ishaq Kayode threatening the Pillars goal as Chijioke Akuneto forced Ibrahim into action.
The second half brought more opportunities for the Sai Masu Gida side than the first, with Sochima Victor forced into action to deny a powerful strike from Rabiu Ali.
The key moment came in the 70th minute when former Kano Pillars forward Nyima Nwagua took advantage of the goalkeepers howler to slot home what proved to be the match-winner.
Frustration grew in the ground as Salisu Yusuf’s side attempted to battle their way back into the game. Despite a late spell of pressure and a couple of forced nervy moments, the back four of the Pride of Rivers consisting of Kazie Eyinnaya, Ebube Duru, Fabian Nworie and man of the match Cameroon import Dennis Ndasi stood firm in the face of waves of Pillars attacks.
The victory marks consecutive clean sheets and sees Rivers United continue to build some much-needed positive momentum on top of the league log.
Rivers United remain on top of the NPFL log with 35 points from 16 matches. One point ahead of Plateau United.
Up next, it’s Shooting Stars on Sunday 6th March 2022. Kick-off is at 4pm (NIG time) at Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.
