Rivers United defeated Nasarawa United 2 – 0 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Omagwa on Monday.
The victory helped moved the Pride of Rivers to three points behind leaders Enyimba FC.
Coach Stanley Eguma made nine changes to the team that played Katsina United in previous match with Theophilus Afelokhai returning to goal.
Kazie Enyinnaya, Bamba Bakary, Fabian Nworie and Ifeanyi Anaemena replaced Kingsley Patrick, Solomon Onome, Festus Austin and Desmond Agbekpornu in the defence.
Godwin Aguda took the place of Ishaq Kayode, while Malachi Ohawume replaced Sissoko Soulaymane and Cletus Emotan replaced Destiny Ashadi.
Top scorer Fortune Omoniwari also got te nod to start ahead of Stephen Gopey after resting for the tie against Katsina United.
Malachi Ohawume put the Stanley Eguma side ahead in the 7th minute of the tie after a beautiful lob from Fortune Omoniwari came off the cross bar.
Rivers United scored their second of the game in the 73rd minute. Bamba Bakary played an excellent free kick which was volleyed home by Nelson Esor for the match winner.
Nasarawa United players raised their game after going two goals behind and reduced the deficit in the 79th. Silas Nwankwo raced clear on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat, but his shot went over the bar.
Rivers United saw out the win and the three points helped them reclaimed second place from Kwara United, although they have same points.
Rivers United return to CAF Confederation Cup campaign on Sunday with an away tie against Enyimba FC.
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