By Happiness Etukudo
In a tense rescheduled league fixture, Rivers United failed to secure a point as the Nigeria Premier Football League side Shooting Stars SC secured a dramatic stoppage-time victory over the Garden city boys, sealing all three points with a late strike that sent home fans into celebration.
The encounter, played at the Lekan Salami Stadium, was evenly contested for most of the match, with both teams struggling to convert chances despite periods of sustained pressure.
The Ibadan based outlet began brightly, controlling possession and creating early opportunities, but Rivers United’s defence remained compact and disciplined to keep the hosts at bay. The visitors gradually settled into the game, threatening the counterattack and forcing several saves from the Shooting Stars goalkeeper.
As the match approached the closing stages, it appeared both sides would share the spoils after failing to break the deadlock in regulation time. However, the game took a dramatic turn deep into stoppage time when Shooting Stars found the decisive breakthrough.
A quick attacking move in added time caught the Rivers United defence off guard, allowing a Shooting Stars forward to slot the ball into the net and secure a late 2–1 victory for the home side.
The result handed Shooting Stars a crucial win in the rescheduled fixture and boosted their position on the NPFL table, while Rivers United were left frustrated after conceding at the death despite a resilient performance.
The dramatic finish further highlights the intensity of the Nigeria Premier Football League this season, as clubs continue to battle fiercely for points in a tightly contested campaign.
3SC snatch stoppage-time win over Rivers United
