Ovoke is hero as Rivers United thrash Gombe 3-0

Bernard Ovoke converted two penalties to inspire Rivers United to a 3-0 win over Gombe United on the penultimate match day of this season’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Rivers United failed to breach their opponent’s rear guard despite dominating proceedings in the first half.

A quick start by the hosts saw them win a penalty minutes after the restart after the referee adjudged that Christian Weli had been fouled in the box.

Ovoke stepped up confidently and fire hard and high into the corner past a despairing Danjuma Hussaini in goal for Gombe United.

The home side won another penalty in the 65th minute after a Gombe United defender stopped Emeka Ogbugh’s goal-bound effort with his hand.

The responsibility from 12 yards again fell to Ovoke who this time choose to go to the left, sending Hussaini the wrong way in the process.

Victory on Sunday lifts Rivers United to 11th on the NPFL standings with 52 points from 37 matches, while Gombe United have now been relegated from the NPFL with 43 points from 37 matches.