Head coaches Kennedy Boboye and Finidi George have shared contrasting emotions following the goalless draw between Bendel Insurance and Rivers United in their rescheduled NPFL matchday nine encounter in Benin City on Thursday.

The result extended Bendel Insurance’s winless run, while Rivers United maintained their steady form ahead of their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign.

Bendel Insurance boss Kennedy Boboye was visibly frustrated after the final whistle, pointing fingers at the club’s recruitment strategy and the performance of some players.

 “The first players who started the attack missed some chances,” Boboye said. “If you come in when the team is under pressure and you don’t have a big heart, it will swallow you. I’m sorry to say this, but there are some players the team is bigger than. That’s just the truth. We can’t do much until midseason, but we’ll keep pushing.”

Insurance dominated possession for large spells but failed to make their advantage count. Their best opportunity came in the first half, denied by the woodwork, as their struggles in front of goal continued.

The result marked Bendel Insurance’s third consecutive draw and sixth of the season, leaving them with just one win in their last 12 NPFL matches (1 win, 6 draws, 5 losses).

On the other hand, Rivers United’s head coach, Finidi George, was satisfied with his team’s discipline and defensive resilience in a tough away fixture.

“We knew from the onset that it’s going to be difficult,” Finidi told reporters after the match. “I already told the boys they have to fight because it’s going to be scrappy, and they did just that. We had to defend properly to get something out of this game. Kudos to my players for maintaining their composure, even when it was difficult in the second half.”

Finidi also defended his team’s low goal output this season, noting that they have proven their scoring ability in continental competitions.

 “Of course, this is the NPFL. Sometimes you don’t get the free-flowing football you see in the EPL. Even though we’ve qualified for the CAF Champions League group stage, when that time comes, we’ll play differently. In our last qualifiers, we scored three goals. My team can score goals, but there are situations where you just have to appreciate what you get.”

While Boboye’s men continue to search for answers to their attacking woes, Rivers United will be looking to build on their defensive solidity as they travel to Owerri to face Kun Khalifat, Bendel Insurance, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back when they visit Plateau United.