Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has praised his team’s impressive victory over Rangers in the Round of 32 of the President Federation Cup.
The Port Harcourt club secured a hard-fought 3-2 win against the Flying Antelopes at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo on Monday to book their place in the next round of the competition
Keenly Contested Encounter
Rivers United got off to a flying start, with Chijioke Mbaoma heading home a pinpoint cross from Ubong Friday in the fifth minute.
Wisdom Samuel doubled Rivers United’s lead before the break, linking up brilliantly with Taofeek Otaniyi before weaving past two defenders and calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner.
Rangers fought back strongly after the interval, with Godwin Obaje reducing the deficit from the penalty spot in the 59th minute. Precious Agu then restored parity just two minutes later, setting up a tense and thrilling finish.
Substitute Handsome Surveyor netted the decisive goal for Rivers United deep into stoppage time, capitalising on a costly error by the Rangers goalkeeper to seal a dramatic victory.
Finidi Satisfied With Win
Finidi expressed satisfaction with his players’ performance and determination throughout the encounter.
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“We started the game well, we are happy with the victory. In the second half, we told them to keep the ball well, after 20 minutes the game slow down a bit,” Finidi told Rivers United’s media.
“Rangers came back, and they scored two goals, it was a bit scrappy in the last 20 minutes. At the end of the day we got the winning goal.
“We are happy to be in the Round of 16, we will keep pushing to see where we will end up at the end.”
On Surveyor’s Contribution
Surveyor, who has scored several vital goals for Rivers United this season, once again proved to be the hero for the Port Harcourt club.
Finidi hailed the forward’s knack for delivering in crucial moments, expressing confidence that his fortune in front of goal could play a key role in Rivers United’s quest for President Federation Cup glory.
“We knew he has that luck that was why he was introduced into the game,” added the Finidi.
“At the end, he got the winning goal for us, and we are happy with it. We will continue to encourage him to see how he can help us as well.”
Finidi’s side will face another Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, side Nasarawa United in the Round of 16.
By Adeboye Amosu
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