Sport

NPFL: Rivers win at Tornadoes to reclaim top spot as Ikorodu beat Lobi Stars in six-goal thriller

October 21, 2024 9:28 pm

Rivers United required a second-half strike to secure a 1-0 win and all three points against Niger Tornadoes in their Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) match at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna on Monday.

Seiyefa Jackson was the matchwinner for the Rivers-based side, scoring a controversial goal to ensure the club continued its superb start to the season under coach Finidi George.

Jackson’s goal came two minutes into the second half in controversial circumstance. A free kick delivery was converted by Jackson who was initially deemed offside by the centre referee. However, the assistant referee disagreed and the goal was restored for the visitors despite the drama that ensued.

Rivers United then produced a valiant defensive display till the end, despite a red card to Emmanuel Nnaji in added time.

Tornadoes have now failed to win in five consecutive matches after starting the season with seven points from three matches.

Rivers United, however, maintain their unbeaten record after eight matches and have amassed 20 points from eight matches, two more than second-placed Remo Stars.

They have also kept a clean sheet in three consecutive league matches, and have conceded only two goals in the season.

Another entertaining clash of the day saw Ikorodu City continue their revival in the league with a 4-2 victory over Lobi Stars. The Lagos-based club relinquished a two-goal lead before rallying with two further goals to secure all three points, their second of the season.

They became the first side to score four or more at home this season, and the third to achieve the feat home or away.

Salau Yusuf and Emmanuel Solomon put Ikorodu City 2-0 up but Lobi restored parity through Ifeanyi Assurance’s brace in the fifth and seventh minute of first half added time.

The Oga Boys however restored their lead with two goals in two minutes, with Alade Solomon and Rivio Ayemwenre netting in the 56th and 58th minutes to seal victory for the home side who are still without a head coach.

RESULTS