Rivers United climbed to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Barau FC, courtesy of a late Stephen Manyo strike that also snapped the visitors’ seven-match unbeaten run.
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Played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, the contest was evenly balanced for long spells, with both sides cancelling each other out through disciplined defensive work and midfield battles.
Barau FC, buoyed by recent form, remained compact and frustrated the hosts for much of the encounter.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 84th minute when Stephen Manyo found space in the area and calmly converted to send the home fans into celebration.
The decisive goal proved enough to secure all three points for Rivers United.
The win lifts Rivers United to 46 points from 24 matches, placing them top of the NPFL standings.
Barau FC, despite the defeat, remain mid-table on 34 points after 27 games, with their impressive unbeaten streak coming to an end.
With the title race tightening, Rivers United’s late surge underlines their intent as the season heads into a decisive phase, while Barau FC will look to regroup quickly and return to winning ways in their next fixture.
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