Rivers United FC stormed to a 3-1 victory over Heartland FC of Owerri, delivering a powerful statement under their new head coach, Finidi George, in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) round 2 clash at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.
This emphatic win not only marked Finidi’s first home victory but also came against his former teammate and now rival coach, Emmanuel Amuneke, Footballrover reports.
After a goalless draw against Bendel Insurance in their season opener, Rivers United were determined to make amends.
It took just three minutes for the hosts to strike, as Taofeek Otaniyi soared above Heartland’s defence to head home a perfect cross from Okon Aniemeke, sending the home crowd into early celebrations.
However, Heartland FC, led by the experienced Amuneke, found an equaliser right before the halftime whistle.
Christian Molokwu silenced the crowd by slotting in a last-gasp goal during first-half stoppage time, leaving the score level at 1-1.
The Pride of Rivers came out firing in the second half, dominating the play and putting Heartland under immense pressure.
They nearly took the lead in the 61st minute, but Heartland’s goalkeeper, Ebuka Nwakoeche, pulled off a spectacular save, denying another header that looked destined for the net.
The breakthrough finally came in the 68th minute, courtesy of Kabir Abdullahi, whose solo effort in Heartland’s box resulted in a cool finish to restore Rivers United’s lead. Abdullahi wasn’t done yet.
In the dying moments of extra time, he sealed the game with a stunning free-kick from outside the box, making it 3-1 and capping off a memorable evening for the Port Harcourt side.
Finidi George, visibly pleased with his team’s performance, praised their resilience and composure throughout the match.
He also took a moment to acknowledge the significance of going head-to-head with Amuneke.
This convincing win sets Rivers United on the right track as they aim to build momentum in the 2024/2025 NPFL season.
Be the first to comment on "Finidi George Secures First Home Win as Rivers United Crush Amuneke’s Heartland"