It was a closely contested game between Niger Tornadoes and Rivers United in the match-day two of the Nigeria professional football league season in at Bako Kontagora Stadium on Wednesday.
The game started on a good note as both sides had chances to take the lead but they were let down by poor finishing in front of goal.
The first chance fell to Michael Otukeh who fired a half-hearted effort from range in the sixth minute which the flamboyant Bamba collected with nonchalance.
United were lucky not to go behind again minutes later when Ahmadu Liman whipped in a brilliant low cross from the left, with just a touch needed to divert the ball into the back of the net.
The first half ended with nothing to separate both sides but Tornados obviously the better side.
However, the game came to life in the 67th minute with Eric Frimpong putting the hosts in front in a fantastic finish.
The Ghanaian got on the end of a flowing team move to beat United defense before tapping the ball into the top corner past a Bamba Drissa who was left stranded.
Tornadoes lead only lasted for three minutes as River United responded in emphatic fashion, Wasiu Jimoh raced down the byeline and delivered an inch-perfect pass to Ossy Martins who scored from point-blank range.
The visitors had two quick chances in succession to put the game to bed but Wasiu Jimoh and Ossy Martins were guilty of missing a glorious opportunity in the 73rd and 75th minutes respectively.
The interesting game ended in a draw and Coach of the home side, Bernard Ogbe told the press after the game that he was disappointed dropping two points at home.
“We drew the match but it was not what we expected,” Ogbe told the press.
“We expected to win and I’ll attribute this result to desperation (on our part),” he said.
Rivers United’s coach Stanley Eguma on his part salutes his players for a job well done.
“I thank my players for putting up a good effort today.
” It was a good game but this is just the beginning.
“The two teams played good football. We expected a win but we got a draw,” he said.
Rivers United will next face Katsina United in Port Harcourt on Sunday while Tornadoes embark on the trip up North to Gombe where they are expected to go toe to toe with Wikki Tourists at the Pantami Stadium.
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