Unbeaten Rivers Utd Rattled, But Clings to Top Spot; Amuneke Vows Improvements at Heartland FC
By: Chinedum Ohanusi
Head Coach of Rivers United FC, Finidi George says Sunday’s home draw with promoted ElKanemi Warriors FC of Maidugiri, was just a blip, and nothing more.
The Pride of Rivers fought tooth and nail, but eventually settled for a 1-all draw with 10-man Elkanemi Warriors FC, the only other side, yet to taste defeat, after nine match-days, in the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
“It’s a disappointing result, but for sure it is also a blip, and should not distract the team from pursuing our set goals, this season”, Finidi told reporters after the fiercely contested game, in Port Harcourt.
Meanwhile, Head Coach Emmanuel Amuneke says he is pleased with the progress Heartland FC has made in recent weeks; that’s after a very slow start to the season.
The Naze Millionaires on Sunday punched above their weight, by edging Remo Stars FC of Ikenne 1-0 at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, in Owerri; meaning they have lost only once, in their last five games (away to Bayelsa United FC).
Amuneke also praised his players, for gradually adapting to his philosophy, and accepting to compete amongst themselves for places in the starting line-up, without rancour.
Afolayan Peters scored the clincher in the 71st minute, as Heartland FC defeated Remo Stars FC of Ikenne 1-0 to move up to 16th on the log, with 9 points, earned from nine games; and Amuneke is confident, his wards will be ready for their next game, away to Abia Warriors FC, in Umuahia.
Remarkably, Abia Warriors FC, coached by Imama Amakpakabo were the only side to grab a road win, last weekend; and they did so by defeating Bendel Insurance FC 1-0, in Benin City.
Elsewhere, Enyimba FC scored at the death, to beat resurgent Ikorodu City FC 2-1 in Aba, to take their tally up to 17 points, and closed the gap between them and the top-two teams – Remo Stars (18 points), Rivers United (21 points).
*Results of Other Day-9 Fixtures:*
Nasarawa United FC 1-0 Kano Pillars FC
Katsina United FC 1-1 Nigeria Tornadoes FC
Plateau United FC 3-0 Sunshine Stars FC
Shooting Stars SC 2-1 Akwa United FC
