Rivers United head coach Finidi George expressed confidence in his group’s efficiency, stating they totally deserved their 3-1 victory over Heartland FC throughout their Nigeria Premier Soccer League (NPFL) matchday two conflict.
The match, held on the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt on Saturday, noticed the Delight of Rivers overcome Emmanuel Amuneke’s Heartland aspect in a fiercely contested encounter.
Rivers United took an early lead simply three minutes in, as Taofeek Otaniyi expertly headed in a cross from Aniekeme Okon, beating Heartland goalkeeper Ebuka Nwokocha. Nevertheless, Heartland responded earlier than halftime when Christian Molokwu equalized from an extended throw-in by Chijioke Opara.
Substitute Kabir Abdullahi made a decisive affect within the second half, restoring Rivers United’s lead with a well-placed strike on 60 minutes. He later sealed the win together with his second aim of the match throughout further time, making certain a cushty victory for Finidi George’s aspect.
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Reflecting on the sport, George praised his group’s resilience and tactical self-discipline, notably within the second half.
“It was sport. We began with a excessive tempo, and after that aim, the tempo dropped, and Heartland began taking part in. Sadly, they acquired that aim, and we have been livid about it,” George stated in his post-match interview.
He added, “We needed to encourage the boys, particularly within the second half. The second half was ours; they couldn’t do a lot aside from one or two breaks that they had. We managed the sport, and total, we deserved to win.”
The previous Tremendous Eagles star additionally emphasised the progress his squad has made, noting that most of the gamers are new to the group. “The group is virtually new, so we have now been working with the gamers tactically and technically, and they’re responding,” Finidi George concluded.
With this win, Rivers United secured their first victory of the season and shall be trying to construct on this momentum of their upcoming NPFL fixtures.