A tense contest on Sunday between Rivers United and Nasarawa United was settled by a Guy Kuemian strike in the fifth minute of second added time as the Port Harcourt side claimed their third victory in this season’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
The Rivers United technical manager, Stanley Eguma opted to name the Ivoirian marksman as one of his substitutes and the move turned out to be a masterstroke as the former Leones Vegeterianos man claimed the spoils by plundering the game’s only goal.
Rivers United looked lethargic for most parts of the first half with the visitors enjoying the more clear-cut opportunities.
Nasarawa United were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty in the sixth minute after Eseosa Igbinoba was felled in the box by Festus Austin but the referee waved play on to the relief of the home faithful.
Obomate Frederick had the best chance for the hosts just before half time but his shot flew wide of Paul Danjuma’s right hand post.
The visitors mustered the first effort on target after the restart despite been under the cosh for long spells but Ishaya Anyu’s volley from range in the 58th minute was dealt with at the second attempt by Sunday Rotimi, the Rivers United goalkeeper.
Chances were few and far between as Nasarawa United seemed convinced to defend in numbers, rarely venturing out of their half with real attacking intent.
The hosts nearly took the lead in the 73rd minute through Christin Weli but the midfielder failed to keep his shot low and on target.
It seemed the game would end in a stalemate until Guy popped up at the death to force the issue.
A visibly disappointed Nasarawa United head coach, Kabiru Dogo was philosophical in defeat.
“We thank the Almighty God (for the result) and at the same time congratulate Rivers United for their hard-victory because it’s not easy.
“That’s the way God wants it and we take it (the defeat) in good faith,” Dogo said at the post match press.
On his part, the Rivers United trainer, Eguma acknowledged that it was an extremely difficult contest but praised his wards for staying patient until the end.
“It was a difficult game. Nasarawa United is a very good team. They did not give up until the last minute.
“I commend my players though we did not have a very good game today.
“It was important not to concede and my players showed character to fight until the end,” Eguma said.
The win puts Rivers United in fifth place on the NPFL standings with nine points from five matches while Nasarawa United stay bottom with no points after three games.
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