Godwin Aguda was on target with his fourth league goal of the season as the 'Pride of Rivers' earned a welcome - and deserved - win.
Rivers United went into this Matchday 18 tie off the back of a very tough night at Lobi Stars, but this was a strong response to keep the Eguma tutored side in touch with the Nigeria Professional Football League’s top four.
Rivers United started as if they had a point to prove after that mauling at the Aper Aku Stadium. There was energy and determination in their pressing and, as early as the sixth minute, Cletus Emotan helped set up a chance that well cleared out of danger.
Sunshine Stars danger man Sadeeq Yusuf had an opportunity to give 'Owena Waves' the lead in the 14th minute but he was unlucky as a poor clearance by United's goalkeeper Ospino Egbe hit his lower body before it was cleared into safety.
Godwin Aguda settled any nerves with the only goal of the tie, finishing off an intelligent move initiated by energetic Joseph Onoja in the 32nd minute. It was his fourth goal of the season.
The goal certainly gave Rivers United control with Fortune Omoniwari and Malachi Ohawume all coming close to extending their lead before the break.
Both teams failed to utilize the chances that came their way in the second half as Rivers United wrapped up her nineth win of the ongoing season.
WHAT IT MEANS
This win keeps Rivers United (29 points) in sixth place in the Nigeria Professional Football League.
Rivers United are four points behind table toppers Kwara United (33 points) - but the 'Afonja Warriors' have played a game more.
TEAM NEWS
Technical adviser Stanley Eguma made seven changes to the side that started at Lobi Stars.
Ospino Egbe came in for Abiodun Akande, Konan Ruffin replaced Bamba Bakary. Club captain Festus Austin replaced Kunle Odunlami, Oshobe Shuji replaced Lookman Binuyo while Malachi Ohawume, Fortune Omoniwari and Cletus Emotan replaced Chika Godwin, Stephen Gopey and Kehinde Adedipe.
WHAT’S NEXT
The Nigeria Professional Football League enters matchday 19 and Rivers United will be in Uyo on Sunday April 4 as guest to Dakkada FC.
Credit: Rivers United Media
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