NPFL Super Six: Rivers United FC halt Bendel Insurance FC unbeaten run, title hopes
Rivers United FC defeated Bendel Insurance FC 2-1 on Matchday four of the NPFL Super Six playoffs to end their unbeaten run and title hopes.
Ahead of the game on Friday June 9, 2023, Bendel Insurance FC were on a 21-game unbeaten run in the League and we’re perfectly poised in the race for the title.
To advance their own push towards defending the Nigeria Premier Football League title won in 2022, Rivers United FC struck a fatal blow on what has been a sensational season for the Benin Arsenal.
Under the sun for the 2pm kickoff, Midfielder Morice Chukwu fired Rivers United FC in front on the stroke of half-time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.
In the second half, Bendel Insurance FC did press for an equalizer but Super Eagles goalkepeer Sochima Victor was perfect to preserve the lead for Stanley Eguma’s men who also carved out chances of their own.
With the tension at its peak and clock ticking towards the 90′, Rivers United FC doubled the lead through Joseph Onoja who finished of an assist from Ukeme Williams.
New Super Eagles invitee Divine Nwachukwu continued his impressive form at the playoffs, scoring in a third straight game to halve the deficit for Bendel Insurance FC deep into stoppage time.
And so, at the Referees whistle for full-time, it finished Rivers United FC 2-1 Bendel Insurance FC.
A sad afternoon at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan for Coach Monday Odigie and his charges as the result ends their invincibility in all competitions and their hopes of winning the league title.
As it stands, Rivers United FC occupy top-spot in the NPFL Super Six playoffs standing with 8-points, 5 clear of Insurance FC with a game to go at the Championship playoffs.
On the last day, Rivers United FC will face Enyimba FC in a game that will decide the champion of the 2022/2023 season while Bendel Insurance FC will seek a win vs Remo Stars to boost their chances of picking one of three continental spots.
