Rivers United will defend their unbeaten start when the Nigeria Premier Football League’s Matchday 10 programme gets under way on Saturday, with a difficult trip to Bendel Insurance.

Quick facts

• Rivers United lead the NPFL with 17 points from nine matches.
• The leaders have recorded four victories and five draws, conceding only two goals.
• Bendel Insurance have won each of their four home fixtures at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, scoring 12 times.
• Enyimba sit 18th on eight points, while Inter Lagos are bottom with two.

Rivers have drawn all four of their league matches on the road so far. Their unbeaten run will be tested in Benin City, where Insurance have been flawless at home.

Enyimba, placed 18th after collecting eight points from nine outings, have suffered five defeats. Following last weekend’s 0-0 result against Warri Wolves, they head to Lafia to face seventh-placed Nasarawa United, who have 14 points.

The Aba side are still waiting for their first away victory of the campaign.

Inter Lagos, rooted to the foot of the table with two points, travel to Owerri to meet Kun Khalifat FC, who have nine points. Inter were beaten at home by Nasarawa United in their previous fixture.

The Southwest derby brings together Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars. Ikorodu have 12 points, one more than 15th-placed Shooting Stars, and have won their past two home matches against Kwara United and Enugu Rangers without allowing a goal.

Shooting Stars have yet to claim an away win this term.

Plateau United, on 14 points, visit Katsina United after an unexpected home loss to Sporting Lagos last weekend. Enugu Rangers will host Sporting Lagos.

Elsewhere, Kwara United travel to Kano for a meeting with Barau FC, while Abia Warriors welcome Niger Tornadoes in Aba. Warri Wolves entertain Kano Pillars in Ozoro.

Doma United’s fixture against Ranchers Bees has been rescheduled for November.