NPFL: Finidi George Insists Rivers United deserved victory over Heartland

By Asuquo

Posted on September 15, 2024

Rivers United head coach Finidi George has asserted that his team thoroughly deserved their 3-1 victory over Heartland in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday two clash.

The Pride of Rivers claimed the win at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt on Saturday, with an impressive performance that saw them secure the three points.

Finidi George praised his side’s efforts, highlighting the positive aspects of their performance despite a brief lapse in the first half. Taofeek Olaniyi opened the scoring for Rivers United in the third minute, heading in a cross from Aniekeme Okon past Heartland goalkeeper Ebuka Nwokocha.

Heartland responded with an equaliser late in the first half, as Christian Molokwu converted a long throw-in from Chijioke Opara to level the score. However, the second half saw Rivers United reassert their dominance.

Substitute Kabir Abdullahi scored in the 60th minute to restore Rivers United’s lead, and he added another goal in added time to seal a comfortable 3-1 victory.

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In his post-match comments, Finidi George expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “It was a good game. We started with a high tempo, but after that goal, the tempo dropped, and Heartland started playing. Unfortunately, they got that goal, and we were furious about it. We had to motivate the boys, especially in the second half.”

He continued, “The second half was ours; Heartland couldn’t do much apart from one or two breaks they had. We controlled the game, and overall, we deserved to win.”

Finidi George also noted the ongoing development of his team, saying, “The team is practically new, so we have been working with the players tactically and technically, and they are responding well.”

The victory marks a positive start for Rivers United in their NPFL campaign, as they look to build on this momentum in the upcoming fixtures.