Goalkeeper Ibubeleye Whyte was the hero of the day as Rivers Angels FC returned to winning ways with a 2-1 win over hosts, Nasarawa Amazons inside the Lafia Township stadium on Wednesday.
The former Super Falcons shot stopper pulled off brilliant saves to deny Taanum Dooshima and Amarachi Okoronkwo on a few occasions to ensure her side garnered all maximum points and end Angels’ run of three games without a win.
It was defender Ugochi Emenayo who drew the first blood in the 51st minute for the Amazons when she brilliantly slotted home from near post.
Their lead did not last long however as Vivian Ikechukwu responded with a smart finish from inside the box in the 55th minute to level the scores.
Diminutive winger Maryann Ezenagu scored the winner in the 70th minute, making sure Edwin Okon’s side secure a first win in four attempts.
Rivers Angels remains in 3rd position with 25 points on the NWFL table as leaders Bayelsa Queens maintain their six points lead with Delta Queens 2nd, a point ahead of the Port Harcourt side.
After the game, head coach Okon while commending the effort of his girls admitted that it’s never an easy task picking a win on the road.
“The players already knew what was at stake and I’m happy with their fighting spirit today,” began Okon.
“Picking three points on the road is not an easy one and getting this result today will help in boosting the team psychologically.
“As reigning Champions, we are expected to work hard so as to qualify for the CAF competition.
“We are not going to let our current position affect us, the target is to pick up that ticket and we will keep pushing,” he said.
The Rivers Angels gaffer also asked that its fans keeps supporting the girls as they continue with the push.
“I know the job of qualifying won’t be an easy one due to our position on the table but our fans shouldn’t relent with their support for the team,” he continued.
“There are many more games to go especially in the second round, the girls will keep fighting for the ultimate prize.
“If we keep getting the quality of officiating we got in Lafia in other centers, be rest assured that we’ll be securing more away wins,” Okon concluded.
Rivers Angels’ next game is against arch rivals, Bayelsa Queens on April 7 in Port Harcourt
