A header on the stroke of halftime from Wasiu Alalade cancelled out Andy Okpe’s clinical finish as Rivers United began 2024 with a hard-earned draw against Gombe United at The Pantami Stadium in Gombe.
In a low-key first half, the Savannah Scorpions were first to spring to life when Wasiu Alalade tested Abiodun Akande with a looping header after an incisive run by Abba Umar.
But moments later the Prive of Ricers burst forward and Samuel Antwi saw his shot from within range squirm just past the near post. With clear-cut chances few and far between, the only remaining Nigerian team on the continent came closest through Andy Okpe whose shot on target was deflected for a corner kick before later seeing Kazeen Yakin just about push his firm shot around the post.
Augustine Okejepha, Chiamaka Madu and Samuel Antwi combined well to provide supplies for Sadiq Abubakar, Nyima Nwagua and Andy Okpe upfront as Rivers United searched for the breakthrough but there seemed to be no way through against a resolute home side.
But one minute to the end of the first half, Andy Okpe was at the end of a beautiful team effort to race past two of his markers before sending a low shot into the bottom corner. Chiamaka Madu provided the assist.
Gombe United responded quickly and were rewarded three minutes later with Wasiu Alalade heading in from what looked like an offside position to close the half at 1-1.
The second half was keenly contested with plenty of drama off than on the pitch but the visitors kept composure at the back with Kazie Enyinnaya, Emmanuel Ampiah, Endurance Ebedebiri and Anthony Ohaegbu providing cover for goalkeeper Abiodun Akande.
As the clock ticked on, Rivers United’s urgency increased with the introduction of Joseph Onoja, energetic Victor Arikpo and Deputy Echeta but the visitors continued to find it difficult to find a way through, while substitute goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya was called on late to make a sharp save from an acrobatics kick by Balogun Luke.
In the end, both teams had to settle for a share of the spoils in a game filled with off-the-field incidents.
Rivers United earned a second draw on the road but remained in the bottom half of the log with 5 outstanding matches to be played.
Nigeria’s representatives in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup guests to Plateau United in Jos on Wednesday 10th January 2024 for a rescheduled NPFL Matchday 10 blockbuster clash.
Eighteen-Eleven Media