Finidi George rues missed chances as Rivers United fall in title race

Rivers United manager Finidi George has criticised his side’s lack of cutting edge after a damaging defeat to Warri Wolves denied them the chance to go top of the Nigeria Premier Football League.

The setback came in the 33rd round of the Nigeria Premier Football League, with Rivers United falling 2-0 in a South-South derby played at the Southern Delta University Stadium.

The result leaves the visitors unable to take sole possession of first place at a crucial stage of the season.

Warri Wolves seized control early in the contest when Othuke Egbo opened the scoring in the 12th minute.

That early goal forced Rivers United onto the front foot for much of the encounter as they attempted to find a response.

Despite enjoying significant possession in the second half and creating several opportunities, Rivers United were unable to convert their chances.

Their push for an equaliser ultimately left them exposed, and deep into stoppage time, Igbunu Evwierhurhoma finished off a counter-attack to seal the victory for the hosts in the 90+4th minute.

After the match, Finidi George did not hide his frustration with his team’s performance in front of goal. “Every defeat is painful, but at this stage of the championship, a point would have been a good result.

We dominated the game and created several clear chances, but failed to convert them,” he said.

The coach also acknowledged that the decisive second goal came as a consequence of his side’s attacking intent late in the game, as they pushed forward in search of an equaliser.

The defeat leaves Rivers United in second place on 55 points, level with leaders Rangers, who maintain top spot due to a superior goal difference.

Attention now turns to the next round of fixtures, where Rivers United will look to recover at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium against Plateau United. Meanwhile, Warri Wolves will travel to Owerri to face Kun Khalifat FC as the title race continues to unfold.