Olanrewaju Praises Resilient Rivers United

Rivers United head coach Yemi Olanrewaju has expressed deep pride in his squad’s character following a gritty 1-1 draw against Katsina United in Ilorin. Despite missing out on the full three points, the tactician praised the stamina and technical execution of his players under taxing conditions. The encounter, held on Monday, saw both sides trade blows in a match that tested the physical limits of the league leaders.

Azeez Falolu found the back of the net for Katsina United, momentarily threatening an upset against the high-flying visitors. However, Rivers United responded with the composure expected of title contenders, as Stephen Manyo delivered the equalizer to ensure the spoils were shared. The result keeps the Port Harcourt-based side at the summit of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) standings.

Reflecting on the performance, Olanrewaju maintained that his side was the dominant force throughout the ninety minutes. He suggested that while the scoreline remained level, the quality of play favored his team. The coach pointed to the fatigue factor as a significant hurdle, noting that his players have faced a congested fixture list in recent weeks.

The coach was candid about the defensive error that allowed Katsina United to take their chance. He admitted that a momentary lapse in concentration at the back gifted the opposition an opening they otherwise might not have found. “We squeezed them,” Olanrewaju remarked, highlighting how his tactical setup limited the hosts’ opportunities for much of the contest.

Despite the frustration of conceding, the manager chose to focus on the positives of the collective effort. He noted that the exhaustion in the camp was evident but did not dampen the competitive spirit of the group. Given the heavy workload the team has endured lately, he described himself as satisfied with the outcome of the away fixture.

For Rivers United, the point earned in Ilorin is a vital brick in their championship campaign. With 34 points now on the board, they continue to look down on the rest of the league from the top of the table. Maintaining that momentum has become the primary objective for Olanrewaju as the season enters a critical phase.

The draw provides a foundation of confidence as the team prepares for one of their biggest tests of the season. This coming weekend, Port Harcourt will play host to a blockbuster clash as Rivers United welcome Rangers International. The encounter is expected to be a massive draw for fans, pitting two of the country’s most established powerhouses against each other.

Olanrewaju’s focus has already shifted to recovery and tactical preparation for the visit of the Flying Antelopes. He understands that while a draw away from home is a respectable result, home victories are the currency of champions. The technical crew is expected to work on tightening the defensive lines to avoid a repeat of the errors seen in Ilorin.

The players have been lauded for their professionalism, but the coach is aware that the margin for error is shrinking. As the league leaders, Rivers United carry a target on their backs, with every opponent looking to be the one to knock them off their perch. Olanrewaju believes the mental toughness shown against Katsina United is exactly what will be required to see off the challenge from Rangers.

Fans in Port Harcourt are already buzzing in anticipation of the weekend fixture, hoping the team can convert their dominant play into a decisive win. The battle at the top of the NPFL remains fierce, and every point gained or lost could have massive implications for the final standings. For now, Olanrewaju is content that his tired warriors lived to fight another day, keeping their title dreams firmly on track.