Enyimba’s freshly appointed Technical Adviser, Emmanuel Deutsch Gustavo, expressed satisfaction with his team’s grit and strength of character after they battled to a pulsating 1‑1 draw with Rivers United in Sunday’s NPFL Matchday 27 blockbuster at Port Harcourt’s Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.
It was a closely fought NPFL match, with Enyimba and Rivers United matching each other in intensity, tactics and attacking play.
Enyimba drew first blood in the 28th minute when Abiodun Joseph rose brilliantly to flick home a pinpoint free kick, stunning the home crowd and momentarily silencing the Garden City faithful.
However, Rivers United responded just before the break, with Aniekeme finding the equaliser in the 43rd minute to restore parity.
Despite the pressure of playing away from home against a technically sound Rivers United side led by club legend, Finidi George, Enyimba displayed grit and organisation throughout the contest.
Speaking after the encounter, Coach Deutsch Gustavo expressed satisfaction with his team’s mentality and application.
“Yes, I think the boys showed good character both in the first and second half,” the tactician stated.
“It’s just a few days with me, and there are a few areas that need to be taken care of. But I think they showed they can continue to prove themselves.”
The smooth-talking Cameroonian tactician acknowledged the quality of the opposition and the depth of Rivers United’s technical bench but revealed that his tactical approach effectively curtailed their attacking strengths.
He added that his side executed the game plan well, particularly in neutralising Rivers’ dangerous wing play, while insisting that the team will continue to improve with more time on the training ground.
Looking ahead, Coach Deutsch assured the Enyimba faithful that better performances are on the horizon.
“With more work on the training ground, we will show more to the fans,” he said confidently.
When asked about the magnitude of the task before him at Nigeria’s most successful club, Deutsch paid tribute to Enyimba’s illustrious history while pledging to give his utmost to restore the glory days.
“This is a club with a rich history and great achievements. I may not be the best, but I will do my best to bring back the glory days.”
He also commended the unwavering support from the Chairman, Ambassador Nwankwo Kanu and Sporting Director Mr Daniel Eke, noting that their encouragement has been instrumental in motivating both him and the players since his arrival, particularly ahead of the Rivers United clash.
The hard-earned point in Port Harcourt underscores a renewed fighting spirit within the Enyimba fold as the nine-time champions continue their push in the second half of the season.
Next up for the People’s Elephant is a potentially explosive encounter against Kun Khalifat in what promises to be the new Oriental derby on Sunday at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.
