Rivers United technical manager Finidi George has expressed his satisfaction with his side's performances in the 2026/2027 Nigeria Premier Football League season. Despite concerns over the growing physical demands on his defence, the team remained unbeaten after holding Abia Warriors to a goalless draw in their Matchday Eight encounter at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba on Sunday. This result left Rivers United second in the standings with 16 points, one behind leaders Rangers.
Finidi praised his defence, but admitted that the demands of a congested fixture schedule could force him to rotate his players to maintain the team's performance level. He noted that the team has worked hard this season, having not lost a match despite being knocked out of the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League. The former Super Eagles winger expressed his satisfaction with the team's current form.
Finidi stressed the importance of collecting points throughout the campaign, recalling how Rivers United missed out on the league title by a single point last season. He emphasized that every point counts and that the team needs to maintain their form for a longer period to achieve their goals. Finidi's side will look to build on this performance in the coming matches.
Reflecting on the encounter, Finidi described his side's second-half performance as inconsistent. However, he praised their ability to compete against a difficult opponent, Abia Warriors. The team was able to control the game and create scoring opportunities, but ultimately settled for a goalless draw.
Finidi acknowledged that the accumulation of matches is beginning to take its toll on his defenders. He stated that the team will need to monitor the defenders' performance and possibly rotate players to maintain the team's performance level. This could be crucial in the coming matches, especially with the congested fixture schedule.
The result against Abia Warriors was a significant achievement for Rivers United, considering the opponent's home ground reputation. Finidi noted that many teams might have lost to Abia Warriors by a big goal margin, but his side was able to secure a point. This demonstrates the team's resilience and determination to achieve their goals.
Finidi concluded by expressing his happiness with the point secured against Abia Warriors. He emphasized that the team will build on this performance and look to improve in the coming matches. With 16 points in the league, Rivers United is well-positioned to challenge for the title, and Finidi's side will look to maintain their unbeaten run.
Key points
- Finidi George is satisfied with Rivers United's performances this season.
- The team is second in the standings with 16 points, one behind leaders Rangers.
- Finidi may rotate players due to the congested fixture schedule and its impact on his defence.
