Rivers United tightened their grip at the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League after battling to a 1-1 draw against Katsina United in a delayed Matchday 18 encounter at the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, yesterday.
Still smarting from a heavy 4-1 loss to Barau FC in Kano last Friday, the first away defeat of their campaign, the Finidi George-led side showed character to avoid consecutive losses for the first time this season and preserve their position at the top of the table.
Katsina United, who had slipped to a 1-0 home defeat against Bendel Insurance in their last home game outing, started brightly as they chased a much-needed victory. Their intent was rewarded in the 23rd minute when Azeez Falolu fired the Chanji Boys into the lead.
Rivers United, however, responded with resilience and were finally rewarded in the 75th minute through Stephen Manyo. The defender, recently back from injury, marked his return in style by scoring against his former club to restore parity.
The result keeps Rivers United top of the standings with 34 points from 18 matches, while Katsina United sit 12th on 23 points from the same number of games.
However, the title race remains tight, with second-placed Nasarawa United on 31 points and a superior goal difference. The Solid Miners could leapfrog Rivers United if they secure victory over Barau FC in their outstanding Matchday 18 fixture today in Lafia.
Meanwhile, Rivers United will host Rangers International FC in the last game of the first stanza in Port Harcourt this weekend while Katsina United will hit Owerri as guests of Kun Khalifat FC next Monday.
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