Port Harcourt –  Rivers United FC of Port Harcourt on Monday boasted that they would defeat Enyimba FC of Aba in their midweek encounter on June 8 in Umuahia.
The Coach of the Port Harcourt side, Stanley Eguma, in a statement described the match as a game that he could not afford to lose.
It said that the team, which was second on log, following a 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars FC at the weekend, had surprised many with their impressive form in the season.
According to the statement, Rivers United will be playing in a neutral ground because Enyimba traditionally play their home games in Aba.
“Eguma wants another big performance against the People’s Elephant on Wednesday in what should be a compelling contest in Umuahia.
“The game is a big one as Enyimba is a direct rival this season. Playing in Umuahia can be likened to playing at a neutral venue.
“My problem is the pitch at the Umuahia Township Stadium but there is nothing anyone can do except to work hard and come back home with points”.
The statement quoted Eguma as saying, “I do not expect Wednesday’s fixture to be quite as straightforward.
“Having lost the reverse fixture in Port Harcourt, Enyimba will come all out against us seeking a pound of flesh. We are going to be more than stubborn to them.
“The objective is not to lose that game in Umuahia but those who really know us will know we are going there to win,” the statement said.
It will be recalled that  Rivers United FC defeated Enyimba 1-0 in Port Harcourt on Feb. 21.