NWFL: Sharon Onwere’s debut goal seals Rivers Angels’ win over resilient Naija Ratels

Sharon Onwere’s brilliant 55th-minute header was enough to give Rivers Angels a deserved 1-0 victory over a stubborn Naija Ratels side in their NWFL match week 2 clash at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

Despite dominating the game from start to finish, the Jewels of Rivers found Ratels’ goalkeeper Vincent Mercy in exceptional form, denying multiple goal-bound efforts.

Rivers Angels started aggressively, nearly scoring within the first minute through Patience Otubo, but Mercy pulled off a smart save.

The Naija Ratels shot-stopper continued her heroics, stopping: Zainab Oduga’s strike in the 32nd minute, Ifeoma Ikenokwalu’s effort in the 44th minute.

Her resilience ensured the first half ended goalless despite Rivers Angels’ heavy pressure.

Coach Tosan Blankson, eager to turn dominance into goals, introduced three attacking substitutions at the start of the second half.

PAY ATTENTION: Follow The Lagos Voice on WhatsApp channel for latest updates

Even then, Mercy denied Ijeoma Onweagba in the 51st minute, but the breakthrough finally arrived four minutes later.

In the 55th minute, Sharon Onwere rose highest to connect with Polinus Ifeoma’s well-placed corner, heading home the decisive goal to send the home fans into celebration.

Full-time

Rivers Angels 1 – 0 Naija Ratels

Sharon Onwere goal seals the victory for us. https://t.co/yVhkSpPNLW…#TheJewelsOfRivers#RIVNAI#NWFL26

— Rivers Angels FC (@Rivers_Angels) December 3, 2025

Speaking after the match, Match-winner Sharon Onwere expressed her excitement at scoring on her debut for the Jewels of Rivers.

The former Heartland Queens defender described the moment as unforgettable.

“Scoring on my debut is a dream come true. I’m happy to have proved my worth to the club,” she said.