SPOILS SHARED: RIVERS UNITED HOLD RANGERS FC TO A GOALLESS DRAW

The crunch fixture between Rangers FC and Rivers United ended in a stalemate leaving a lot of fans and neutrals with a lot of talking points.

The crunch fixture between Rangers FC and Rivers United ended in a stalemate leaving a lot of fans and neutrals with a lot of talking points. FIRST HALF: ALL SQUARED Both teams approached the game with physicality and intent, eager to impose their game plan. The match began in an end-to-end fashion but Rivers United enjoyed more possession in the first ten minutes of the game, they controlled the middle of the park as Rangers struggled with poor communication and a series of misplaced passes. Rangers FC registered the first chance in the 11th minute when Kenneth Igboke delivered a fine cross into the box for Godwin Obaje whose header lacked enough power to trouble the Rivers United goalkeeper. The flying antelopes grew into the game and began creating goal scoring opportunities. In the 29th Minute Chidiebere Nwobodo unleashed a powerful strike that was well saved by Osagie Onisodumeya. Rangers again came close in the 42nd minute when a defence-splitting pass by Godwin Obaje released Chimaobi Igwilo but goalkeeper stood tall to keep both sides level at halftime. LATE PRESSURE:NO BREAKTHROUGH Rangers started the second half stronger, keeping the defense line of Rivers United under constant pressure. Kenechukwu Agu came close to breaking the deadlock in the 62nd minute but his effort was comfortably gathered by the goalkeeper. The introduction of Evans Ogbonda and Ejike Ikwu injected fresh energy into Rangers' attack, increasing the tempo of the game and creating more chances as they pushed for the late winner. However, Rivers United defence remained resolute and well organized. Rangers had a final opportunity in the 87th minute from a dangerous freekick but the delivery failed to find a teammate in the box , sealing a goalless draw. UP NEXT: Rangers FC will look to bounce back when they travel to face Kun Khalifat FC ,a South-Eastern derby while Rivers United will host defending Champions, Remo Stars. AS IT STANDS Rivers United remain top of the table with 38 points while Rangers are 6th with 30 points