Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has insisted that his side’s narrow defeat to Bayelsa United will not derail their ambition of winning a second Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title.

The Port Harcourt club suffered a 1-0 loss in the South-South derby at the Samson Siasia Stadium on Sunday. Rivers United captain Temple Emekayi inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 12th minute, a setback that ultimately proved decisive.

Following the result, Rivers United slipped to second position on the NPFL table, although they still have three outstanding fixtures to play. Meanwhile, eight-time champions Rangers International F.C. climbed to the top after securing a comfortable 2-0 home victory against Nasarawa United.

Despite the disappointment, Finidi remained resolute in his post-match remarks.

“If losing to Bayelsa United will give us the league title, I’ll accept it,” he said. “We know the purpose of our campaign this season is to win the league. It’s quite unfortunate that we lost today.”

Opinion: A Setback, Not a Surrender

Finidi George’s response reflects the mindset of a seasoned competitor. In a title race, especially in a league as competitive as the NPFL, occasional setbacks are inevitable. What defines champions is not perfection, but resilience.

With three games still in hand, Rivers United remain firmly in contention. Those outstanding fixtures could prove decisive if approached with focus and composure. The pressure may now be heavier, but it is also an opportunity — one that could strengthen the squad’s resolve.

Derby defeats always sting, particularly when decided by an own goal. Yet football seasons are marathons, not sprints. Rangers’ move to the summit adds intrigue to the race, but it also sharpens Rivers United’s urgency.

If Finidi can channel this disappointment into motivation, this loss may indeed become a turning point rather than a downfall. The title race is far from settled — and the fight, as he promised, is still very much alive.