The match between Rivers SWAN and Trans Amadi Professionals (TAP) FC was more than just football—it was the final sporting highlight of an entertaining anniversary celebration on Saturday afternoon.
The crowd gathered with anticipation at the First Aluminium Pitch, Trans Amadi, expecting fireworks—and they got it, Footballrover reports.
In what was meant to be a friendly novelty match, emotions ran high and the encounter felt real.
What happened on the pitch may not have gone in favour of Rivers SWAN, but what followed reminded everyone of the spirit behind the game.
Rivers SWAN fall short as TAP FC seize the moment
The opening half was tightly contested, with both sides battling for dominance. Rivers SWAN missed two clear one-on-one opportunities that could have changed the game’s momentum.
Despite those missed chances, the first half ended in a goalless draw, showing the resilience and balance of both teams.
Fatigue crept into the Rivers SWAN squad in the second half, a side known more for their pens than their pitch time.
The breakthrough for TAP FC came from an unfortunate own goal, as SWAN’s captain, Ghanaman, headed into his own net. The setback seemed to drain the sportswriters even more.
TAP FC capitalised, pressing harder with fresh legs. In a frenzied few seconds, SWAN’s goalkeeper was bombarded with three rapid shots, making remarkable saves until Engr. Sahed Ogunsanya finally found the back of the net, giving the hosts a solid 2–0 lead.
From there, TAP controlled the tempo, sealing the win and keeping their proud home record intact.
More than a game: Food, music, and Teqball magic
Despite the loss, the entertaining anniversary spirit stayed alive.
TAP FC turned great hosts after the game, serving up palm wine, drinks, suya, bole, jollof rice, and even more.
The Rivers SWAN team was gifted a brand-new football, while guests enjoyed laughter, music, and an exciting Teqball exhibition that capped off the evening with flair.
Speaking after the match, Evangelist Obumneme Nkwachukwu Akawor, Vice Chairman of Rivers SWAN and Anniversary Committee Head, praised the success of the celebrations.
“It was a tremendous success based on the support we received yesterday from the faculty and students of mass communications and media studies at Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.
Today’s programme, hosted by Trans Amadi Professionals (TAP), was even more overwhelming. We give God all the glories.
It’s normal to lose a football game, and besides, it was a novelty football game; you can’t win all the time. Wishing the SWAN Rivers State Chapter football team better luck next time,” he told Footballrover.
Ambassador Didi Phina Ojogwu echoed the sentiment, highlighting the blend of football, mentorship, and charity as a proud moment for Rivers SWAN.
“Let me start by thanking the anniversary chairman. I must confess that the committee has done beautifully well in bringing up activities that we are celebrating thus far.
This entertaining anniversary has shown the world that sports journalism goes beyond writing and reporting. It’s inspiring, rewarding, and impactful.
The anniversary has shaped the image of SWAN because everything we are doing here is going worldwide, not just in Rivers State.
The event has really added to the image of the association. And to the young aspiring journalists coming up, the sky is their limit, I must confess. With what the present SWAN excos are doing in the state, the sky is really their limit,” she concluded.
TAP FC Coach, Pius Anyim and Rivers SWAN Chairman, Mr. Cyril Dum Wite
As the dust settles on the pitch, Rivers SWAN will now turn their focus to their final anniversary act—a heartfelt visit to an orphanage on Monday, April 7th, wrapping up a celebration that truly touched lives on and off the field.
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