Rivers United secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars in a fiercely contested Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 23 encounter at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. Timothy Zachariah's late header proved to be the decisive moment, lifting the Pride of Rivers back to winning ways after a four-game winless streak.
The match started with high intensity as both teams sought an early breakthrough. Lobi Stars, known for their attacking prowess, threatened first in the 28th minute when Nazir Mohamad weaved through Rivers United’s defense and unleashed a powerful strike. However, a crucial deflection denied him what looked like a certain goal.
Rivers United responded with their own attacking moves, with their frontline testing Lobi Stars' defense. The visitors remained disciplined at the back, frustrating the hosts with well-timed tackles and clearances. Despite numerous attempts from both sides, the first half ended goalless, leaving the game finely poised.
Lobi Stars resumed the second half with renewed energy, pushing forward through Nazir Mohamad and Segun Oloruntoba. Their persistence forced Rivers United’s defense into a few nervy moments, but goalkeeper Victor Sochima stood firm, making key saves to keep the score level.
Technical Adviser Daniel Amokachi made tactical substitutions to inject more attacking firepower into Lobi Stars’ play. However, Rivers United's defense remained resilient, absorbing pressure and looking for opportunities to hit on the counterattack.
As the game neared its conclusion, it appeared both teams were destined to share the spoils. However, in the 88th minute, Rivers United found the breakthrough. Substitute Timothy Zachariah rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross, guiding his header past the helpless Lobi Stars goalkeeper to send the home fans into jubilation.
With three minutes of additional time, Lobi Stars pushed desperately for an equalizer. Despite their efforts, Rivers United held firm, seeing out the game to claim a hard-fought victory that could prove crucial in their season's ambitions.
The win sees Rivers United remain in third place on the NPFL standings, with 38 points from 23 matches. The victory not only ends their winless run but also boosts their confidence ahead of upcoming fixtures.
Meanwhile, Lobi Stars will be disappointed with the result but can take pride in their performance. They showed resilience and attacking intent but ultimately fell short at the final hurdle. The Pride of Benue will now turn their attention to their next home fixture against Katsina United, where they will seek to bounce back with maximum points.
For Rivers United, the focus now shifts to their Rivers State FA/President Federation Cup campaign. They will kick off their journey in the competition on Thursday, February 13, at 3 PM against the winner of the Burna Boy FC vs. Police Crime Buster FC tie.
Following their cup engagement, Rivers United will resume NPFL duties on Saturday, February 15, with a high-stakes away clash against Enyimba FC. The Pride of Rivers will then travel to Uyo on Wednesday, February 19, to face Akwa United in another crucial league fixture.
As the NPFL season progresses, Rivers United will hope to build on this momentum, while Lobi Stars will look to quickly recover and stay in the hunt for valuable league points.
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