Defending champions Rivers United got off to a winning start in 2022-2023 Nigeria Professional Football League, with a narrow win against Lobi Stars at the Adokiye Amiesiamaka stadium in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

The game was heading for a draw after Abba Umar draw level for Lobi Stars in the 55th minutes, canceling out Morice Chukwu 16th minute opener for the hosts.

Home boy Nyima Nwagua, and Naibe Akpesiri also wasted a  golden opportunity to give Rivers United the lead in the second half.

Rivers United were able to get their noses in front in the dying seconds, when Emmanuel Ampiah was hauled down in the box and Kenechukwu Agu kept his nerve to beat Emmanuel Daniel.

The penalty however snatched three points for Rivers United to get their 2023 NPFL campaign up and running.