Yemi Olanrewaju has pointed to fixture congestion from continental football as a major factor behind Rivers United’s 1-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes in their rescheduled NPFL clash in Minna.
Speaking after the game, the assistant coach admitted his side are beginning to feel the effects of balancing domestic duties with their CAF Champions League campaign, despite putting in what he described as a strong performance.
Rivers United controlled large spells of the match but were punished by a defensive mix-up that handed Niger Tornadoes the only goal of the encounter. The defeat leaves the league leaders still top on 52 points, just one ahead of Enugu Rangers, with Ikorodu City also in close pursuit.
“It was a good game, one we dominated right from the first half. I don’t think they (Niger Tornadoes) created any clear-cut chances, except for the mix-up that led to their goal,” Olanrewaju said.
“But it’s one of those things. I think we’re paying the price of playing on the continent, which has led to fixture congestion. And don’t forget, every team is playing for something, so we know it’s going to be difficult.”
Olanrewaju stressed that the demanding schedule has forced the team to catch up on previously postponed fixtures, adding that every opponent now has added motivation at this stage of the season.
“These Rivers United players are mentally strong. Like I said, everybody is playing for something. Those outstanding games we couldn’t play during our continental campaign are what we’re playing now.
“Niger Tornadoes are fighting relegation, while Ikorodu City are pushing for continental qualification. Every team has something at stake. But I think we had a good game and did not deserve to lose.”
With the title race tightening, Olanrewaju insisted his side will not panic, maintaining that the season is far from decided.
“The league is still a marathon. We still have eight games, and our focus is now on the next match. We don’t want to dwell on previous results. Our attention is fully on what comes next.”
Rivers United now turn their attention to their next league outing against Nasarawa United as they aim to steady their title charge.
