Rivers Angels kicked off their Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) campaign in a sloppy fashion, defeating Naija Ratels 1-0 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.

The match highlighted the attacking intent and resilience of the Jewels of Rivers, with debut goal scorer Sharon Onwere making an immediate impact, Footballrover reports.

Sharon Onwere delivers decisive debut goal

The lone goal of the match came in the 55th minute, with Onwere rising highest to head home a precise corner from Polinus Ifeoma.

The Rivers ladies had dominated proceedings, but Vincent Mercy in the Naija Ratels goal repeatedly denied earlier chances from Patience Otubo, Zainab Oduga, Ifeoma Ikenokwalu, and Ijeoma Onweagba.

In her post-match interview, Sharon reflected on the momentous occasion:

“I’m very, very happy, and it has been my prayer point, honestly. The very first game that I scored.

And also, I prayed very hard. I called my mum today and said, ‘Mum, we are playing a match today, and this is my first game in Rivers Angels.’ So, I need to prove that it’s not a mistake for them to sign me.

So, I thank God that I scored a goal today. I’m very, very happy.”

Defending with an eye for goal

Although scoring isn’t normally her primary duty, the defender made it clear that she’s ready to push beyond her traditional role, and when asked if she wants to score more goals, she said:

“Yes, yes. I’m looking forward to scoring more goals. It’s not only to defend.”

And when pressed on how many goals she expects this season, Sharon added:

“This season, at least we’ll take it as it comes. This is the first goal for the season. So, we’re going for the next one, and we’ll see how it goes. But I’ll score more goals. That’s what I can promise. I’ll score more goals.”

What this win means for Rivers Angels

Following a bye in their opening fixtures, the narrow win earned the Garden City side vital three points but also breathing space ahead of their next fixture against Pacesetters Queens of Ibadan.

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Last Updated on December 4, 2025 6:45 am by footballrover