The Peace Boys returned to the dugout on Match Day 20 after holding the Pride of Rivers to a 1-1 draw in Port-Harcourt with hopes of consolidation in Jos.
Rivers United looked poised to recoup their lost points in Jos in a most crucial encounter that meant a lot at both ends for both teams.
Ubong Friday’s dangerous attempt in the opening, Samuel Kalu’s dazzle and David Onovo’s close shave headed attempt defined key moments before Wale Doyeni’s opening goal after 21 minutes.
A set piece delivery into Rivers United’s area comes off Sam Pam Junior’s header to unsettle Rivers United’s Osagie Onisodumeya, whose sublime interventions ensured scores stayed low,had little to do with Olawale Doyeni’ s Ensuing header that puts the Peace Boys One goal ahead after 21 minutes.
The goal followed more of end to end of action across borders with Taofeek Otaniyi connecting with Ubong Friday’s supply to hit the Peace Boys’ woodwork.
When it looked like the Peace Boys had whisked all three points on the Match Day, some fine combinations that ended in Ndifreke Effiong’s powerful header in the 87th minute threatened to break hearts.
It was not to be for the Pride of Rivers as Plateau United’s new signing, Emmanuel Ihezuo smashes off some sweet combinations to grab the headlines and set the fans to frenzy.
Rivers United Chief Coach,Evan Ogenyi showered encomium to the eventual winners but remained committed to Rivers United’s desire to win the title this season despite the setback.
Plateau United Chief Coach, Patrick Mancha admitted there were struggles in the first round but remained positive of the team’s desire to maintain a positive Trajectory heading into the second round.
Five home wins and two wins on the road, defined the outcome of seven NPFL25 Match Day 20 games decided across the country.
With a trip North West of Nigeria to Katsina’s Mohammed Dikko Stadium against Katsina United, up next for Plateau United Football Club.
Emmanuel Ihezuo joined the Peace Boys from City FC of Abuja with more details of other signings set to be made official soon.
CREDIT: Yaksat Maklek, D.M.O PUFC