Rivers United show Feeders premium 'shege' to reach semifinals

Francis netted an excellent hat-trick as Rivers United booked a ticket to the last four after an emphatic 4-1 win over Rivers United Feeders in the quarterfinal on Wednesday afternoon.

The NPFL champions were too good for their junior boys after scoring two goals in either half to advance to the semifinals.

The game was played inside the main bowl of the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium with a full-strength United side.

After a cagey opening 10 minutes, United broke the deadlock when Ifeanyi Francis rounded the Feeders goalkeeper to put the seniors 1-0 ahead in the 15th minute.

10 minutes before the break, it was 1-1 as the Feeders found their way back to get a shock equaliser in the 35th minute.

However, two minutes before the break, Francis restored the lead with his second of the game to put United back in the driver’s seat with a 2-1 lead at the break.

In the second half, the Pride of Rivers tried but couldn't add to the scoreline until late in the game when two goals in two minutes wrapped up proceedings.

First, it was Malachi Ohawume who doubled the advantage when he made it 3-1  in the 79th minute before star-of-the-game, Francis added a fourth two minutes later to complete his hat-trick and seal the encounter.

The win is the latest for Rivers United who continue their brilliant form across all competitions.

After a comprehensive win over Motema Pembe in the CAFCC, United produced another goal-fest to take their tally to seven in the last two games.

The win over their Feeders means they will progress to the semifinals where they face Wilbros FC for a place in the final.