Rivers United tightened their grip on the prime of the Nigeria Skilled Soccer League desk with a 1–0 victory over Rangers Worldwide in a tense Matchday 19 conflict.
The decisive second arrived within the 52nd minute when Boluwaji Sholumade discovered the web to provide the hosts the lead. Rivers United had been later indebted to Ani Ozomena, who produced an excellent close-range save within the 58th minute to protect the benefit.
Head coach made key changes as the sport wore on. Within the 61st minute, Timothy Zachariah and Osimaga Duke changed Seyi Oguntayo and Okon Aniekeme. Additional modifications adopted within the eightieth minute, with Issac Annor and Emmanuel Nnaji approaching for Effimi Nsi—a former Rangers participant—and Wasiu Falolu. Samson Obi later changed Maclyn Biokpo within the 87th minute as Rivers United seemed to see out the competition.
Rangers Worldwide thought they’d grabbed a dramatic late equaliser from an extended throw within the closing moments, however the aim was disallowed by the middle referee, who as an alternative awarded a free kick to the hosts—an incident that sparked controversy.
Talking after the match, Rangers Int’l head coach, Ekenedilichukwu Ekeh, voiced his frustration with the officiating.
“I’m not completely happy from the kickoff until the ultimate whistle, principally on the officiating, and I would like the league physique to overview this sport.”
The victory ensures Rivers United end the primary stanza on the summit of the NPFL desk, opening up a four-point hole over their closest challengers.
