Rivers United’s Technical Manager, Stanley Eguma, expressed both relief and satisfaction after his team’s hard-fought 2-0 victory against Katsina United in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).
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The win marks their third consecutive triumph, propelling them up the league table.
A Tough Battle Against Katsina United
Eguma acknowledged the challenges posed by Katsina United’s defensive strategy. “This game was so difficult,” he stated. “The Katsina team played a packed defense, a packed midfield, and a packed defense that was difficult to break. We had to change tactics to find openings.”
Rivers United managed to secure a goal in each half, but Eguma emphasized that it was far from an easy task. “Getting one goal in the first half and the second in the second half—you know, it was not an easy game. My players did their best,” he added.
Managing Fatigue and Squad Rotation
The team’s recent success has come at a cost. Eguma addressed concerns about player fatigue, especially with a tight schedule. “We are beginning to observe that,” he admitted. “Playing almost three games in a week is not easy. We need to do squad rotation to keep our players fresh.”
Eyeing Continental Ticket
Despite their low position in the league standings, Eguma remains optimistic. “We’re taking the games one after the other,” he explained. “Our goal is to climb up the table. If we stay focused, it’s very possible. The Continental tickets will be a different story.”
Preparing for Bayelsa United Clash
Looking ahead, Rivers United faces Bayelsa United in just three days. Eguma plans to balance rest and performance. “The players need rest,” he emphasized. “We’ll rotate the squad to inject fresh blood and raise the pace and energy.”
Deputy E. Cheta’s Promising Form
Finally, Eguma praised Deputy E. Cheta, who has scored three goals in as many games. “He has been a very good player,” Eguma said. “If he continues this way, he’s going to make a mark in this league.”
Rivers United fans eagerly await their team’s next challenge, hoping for more victories and a shot at continental glory. Stay tuned for further updates as the NPFL season unfolds.
