Rangers Chief Coach, Ekenedilichukwu Ekeh, has stated that the Flying Antelopes’ 1-1 draw against Katsina United in Sunday’s NPFL matchday 17 fixture was not their ultimate goal, but expressed satisfaction with the shared points and relief that Katsina United did not repeat last season’s feat of ending their unbeaten run, Completesports.com reports.
Ekeh, who is standing in for Fidelis Ilechukwu due to the latter’s engagement with the Super Eagles B Team ahead of next weekend’s CHAN qualifier against Ghana’s Black Galaxies, admitted the team aimed for all three points.
“Definitely, I’ll say no – a draw was not our target,” Coach Ekeh remarked. “Before we set out, our objective was to win and secure three points. Nobody embarks on such a journey aiming for a draw. You must think positively, develop a winning mentality, and work towards maximum points.
“It didn’t turn out as planned, but we have to accept it. That’s football. Last season, Katsina United ended our 10-match unbeaten run. This time, we extended our unbeaten streak to 10 games despite the draw, which is a motivation for the players to keep working harder.”
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Ekeh commended his players for their efforts, highlighting the challenges of playing away from home.
“It wasn’t an easy game. Katsina United gave us a tough time, but we fought hard to ensure they didn’t score. I have to give kudos to my players for their resilience and fighting spirit,” he said.
Rangers now sit third on the table with 28 points after 17 games. They are set to host arch-rivals Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, in a highly anticipated matchday 18 fixture. Meanwhile, Katsina United, who are 14th with 20 points, will travel to face Kwara United.
Ekeh appealed to Rangers fans to remain supportive, promising that the team is committed to delivering results.
“The only language fans understand is winning. But in football, things don’t always go as planned. I urge our supporters to stay positive and keep faith in the team as we strive to make them happy,” Ekeh concluded.
By Sab Osuji
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