EVERTON’S TACTICS LIFTS AKWA UTD ABOVE RIVERS UTD

Akwa United Head Coach Rafael Everton recorded his second win in three pre-season matches after his team’s 2-0 victory over fellow NPFL side Rivers United in a friendly on Sunday in Uyo.

Two second half goals by Ndifereke Effiong and Mfon Udoh guaranteed a comfortable win for the Promise Keepers at the training pitch of the Nest of Champions.

Akwa United who lost their first pre-season friendly 1-0 to Heartland FC in Owerri, beat Abia Warriors 1-0 on Saturday before defeating Rivers United 2-0 in Uyo as they continue to prepare for the 2018/2019 NPFL season.

Coach Everton who was displeased with his team’s performance against Abia Warriors on Saturday, effected some changes to the squad and it paid off as they dominated their visitors throughout the duration of the match.

The two grade A friendlies afforded the Brazilian tactician more opportunity to introduce his game plan and philosophy to his players. His tactics was well interpreted by his boys whose quick movement and change in formation, with sleek passing and interchange of passes from rear to the front resulted in a near perfect display against Rivers United.

After a goalless first half, the Promise Keepers continued their dominance and in the 68th minute, Juwon Oshaniwa delivered a sumptuous low cross into the vital area for Ndifereke Effiong to tap into an empty net to put Coach Rafael Everton’s team in front.

Mfon Udoh put the game beyond the visitors in stoppage time when he calmly converted a spot kick after he was brought down in the box. The Uyo based side will continue their pre-season programmes this week ahead of the start of the new season.

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