NPFL: Bayelsa United secures away win at Rivers

A first-half own goal condemned Rivers United to a home defeat against Bayelsa United on Sunday.

Technical Manager Finidi George made five changes from the side that lost to Ikorodu City last time out, most notably Ndifreke Effiong leading the line, with Timothy Zachariah ruled out and David Benjamin getting his first start of the season.

The NPFL U-17 Youth League winning winger, known for his pace, was energetic upfront, seeking to impress.

However, it was the visitors who struck first. Just seven minutes into the game, Bayelsa United hit us on the break, with an attacker beating our defender in the box and delivering a low cross that deflected past Osagie Onisodumeya.

Mubarak Sani had a snapshot saved after good build-up play, but despite dominating possession, the Pride of Rivers struggled to take advantage of clear-cut chances.

Osagie Onisodumeya made a full-length diving save to deny the visitors at the half-hour mark.

Ubong Friday’s shot from a free kick sailed over the crossbar before the interval.

The visitors nearly doubled their advantage, but Taiwo AbdulRafiu’s brilliant intervention at the far post denied them.

Seiyefa Jackson had a good opportunity after the restart, with his header from a left-sided free-kick saved.

Phillip Udobia tested the goalkeeper with a shot from outside the area, palmed around the post, as we pressed for the equalizer.

Rivers United pushed hard to draw level, but it didn’t materialize. The 7th-minute strike proved decisive, and we settled for an underwhelming match.

The Port Harcourt-based side travels to Ikenne to face Remo Stars on Sunday, 17th November 2024.