Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) group A leaders, Rangers International F.C of Enugu, Sunday evening inside Akure township stadium, continued their fine form in the league with a 2-1 victory against host’, Sunshine Stars in a match day 15 fixture to maintain its stay on the top position.
The coach Olugbenga Ogunbote tutored side literally shut the sun from shinning in the ‘Sunshine State’ as his wards were on point in all departments of the game with Ivorian import, Seka Pascal stealing the show with two splendid goals on 28 and 40 minutes of play with Anthony Omaka getting one for the host on 30 minutes.
A defense splitting pass released Godwin Aguda to the left who did a quick cut back that found Seka who calmly beat his marker before slotting past Ayo Ojo in goal for the ‘Owena Waves’ while some slack defending by the backline of Rangers presented Anthony Omaka with the opportunity to equalize two minutes later but Seka restored Rangers lead on 40 minutes when he calmly beat Ojo after connecting an Ugwu Uwadiegwu’ long pull out.
The host were presented with a golden opportunity to equalize again on 77 minutes when Chiamaka Madu was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the box but Franklin Sasere’ effort from the spot was pushed out by Ghanaian shot stopper, Nana Bonsu.
Ifeanyi Egwim was free on goal on 80 minutes but his effort was beaten out by Ojo in goal for the host while there was also a first time start for former Sunshine Stars winger, West Omodu who came in for Ugochukwu Uwguoke.
Coach Ogunbote said after the encounter, “It was a good game and we showed that we deserved the win by our approach to the game. Our opponent also did their best to make an impact but to God be the glory that when they had opportunities, we were able to clear our lines. The work is still in progress and I am sure it will end in praise.”
Ivorian import, Seka Pascal, the two goal hero, said, “It was a good match and we played more together and I am happy to score two goals today.”
Ghanaian shot stopper, Nana Bonsu, said, “First of all let, me thank God for the win we got today and I believe that the God that made us win the league in 2016 and the Aiteo cup in 2018 will help us win again in 2019. It was a tough match.”
Rangers with this victory have consolidated their first position on the group A log with 27 points from twelve matches closely followed by Enyimba who climb to the second position with 24 points from 15 matches same as MFM on third position and will next engage Lobi Stars on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 in a re-scheduled encounter scheduled for Nnamdi Azikiwe stadium, Enugu.
