Otaniyi strike earns Rivers United narrow win over Wikki Tourists
Taofeek Otaniyi’s 19th-minute goal proved decisive as Rivers United edged Wikki Tourists 1–0 in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 17 encounter, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports
Wikki Tourists made a lively start and almost stunned the hosts in the fifth minute, but Abubakar Ahmed failed to capitalise on a set piece delivered by Abdullahi Usman Pepe. The visitors continued to threaten early on, with Abdullahi Usman later firing off target after a promising run in the 13th minute.
Rivers United gradually grew into the contest and broke the deadlock in the 19th minute when Otaniyi finished confidently to put the Pride of Rivers ahead. The forward remained influential and went close again on the half-hour, forcing Utum Godswill into a strong save that conceded a corner.
?The hosts maintained attacking pressure, with Timothy Zachariah narrowly missing the target in the 35th minute, his first-time volley crashing into the side netting.
?Early in the second half, Rivers United thought they had doubled their advantage when Samson Obi produced an acrobatic finish in the 51st minute, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
?Wikki Tourists attempted to respond through set pieces, including a long-range free kick by Haruna in the 55th minute, but the Rivers defence stood firm to preserve their lead.
Despite late pressure from the visitors, Rivers United remained disciplined at the back and saw out the contest to claim a hard-fought 1–0 victory, securing all three points at home.
Uche Dozie
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