By Uchenna Iyoke on August 7, 2016

El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri scraped through with a slim 1-0 victory over resilient Rivers United in a match day 30 of the Nigeria Professional Football League on Saturday to keep their fine form going since returning to their home ground in April.

Chinedu Ohanachom scored the decisive goal as he chipped the ball over onrushing Rivers United goalkeeper Abiodun Akande on 61 minutes. It was a rainsoaked match that gave no room for skills but strength was the technique for both teams to achieving success.

El-Kanemi coach, Ladan Bosso started the trio of Chinedu Ohanachom, Hussaini Bata and Matthias Samuel upfront while Isiaka Olawale was kingpin in midfielder. Ohanachom would have opened scoring in the 3rd minute when he fired from Bata's cross but was denied by the Rivers United goalkeeper. Moments later Suleiman Dori had his bullet of a shot from a free kick parried into corner by Akande.

Rivers United were only reduced to counter-attacking play in the downpour through Alegbe Victor, Okafor Onyekachi and Okonkwo Nonso. Their nimble footworks at times gave El-Kanemi backline something to think about but at the same time reminded them that they would have to be on alert to stifle the visiting team any chance at goal.

However, Alegbe was the standout performer for the visitors as he combined skills, agility and shots at goal that forced El-Kanemi goalkeeper Kazeem Yekeen into saves.

Isiaka Olawale’s sensational touches in midfield made the difference. His low cross to the right flank five minutes before the interval was poorly controlled by Bata, who eventually fired wide with Rivers United keeper Akande displaced.

Malika Usman of the Warriors sent in two of his long range throw-ins to the vital area of United, but Festus Austin and Christian Weli reacted well with headed clearances.

The tussle left the scoreline 0-0 at the break. On resumption, Rivers United keeper Akande started from where he stopped as he was forced to make a full length save by Isiaka Olawale in the 50th minute.

Ohanachom’s 61st minute was a brilliant move as he received a through pass from Olawale and finished perfectly to earn his team all three points.

Akande was voted man of the match for his heroic saves in between the sticks for Rivers United.

The win propels El-Kanemi Warriors to 12th on the league table, having amassed 37 points from 28 matches while Rivers United are unmoved on the third spot with 44 points after 27 rounds of matches. (npfl.ng)

•Photo shows El-Kanemi Warriors.

Source Daily Sports

Posted August 7, 2016

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