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Nasarawa United were ruthless as they pummelled Rivers United 4-1 on a Match Day 31 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), at the Lafia City Stadium in Nasarawa State.
The Solid Miners of Nasarawa United came out firing and inside the opening six minutes, they raced into a two-goal lead. Ngei Oluka-Efor, opened the goalscoring with a left-footed volley into the back of the net in the third minute off Sam Pam’s assist.
Three minutes later, right-back, Abubakar Abdullahi, rose highest to nod home Nasarawa United’s second goal of the evening after being picked up by Ifeanyi Okechukwu.
Rivers United’s woes went from bad to worse as Chimezie Victor powered home a ferocious effort after benefiting from a brilliant pass from John Joshua in the 15th minute.
In the 24th minute, Rivers United pulled one back through Taiwo Abdulrafiu as the Solid Miners held on to a 3-1 lead into the break
Thirteen minutes into the second half, JoFrank Istifanus put the game to bed and beyond Rivers United with a delightful finish.
Finidi George’s Rivers United aimed to return to the top of the table following Rangers International’s 2–0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors on Sunday, but instead suffered a heavy defeat away from home.
The result ensures Nasarawa United climbed to third on the NPFL table with 50 points, two points behind Rivers United and four points behind table-topping Rangers International.
Nasarawa United will proceed to Lagos for their next match with a date against Kwara United on Match Day 32, while Rivers United will play hosts to new boys Kun Khalifat FC in Port Harcourt.
Monday’s NPFL results
Abia Warriors 2-1 Niger Tornadoes
Nasarawa United 4-1 Rivers United.
