Enugu Rangers head coach Fidelis Ikechukwu has expressed disappointment at his side’s performance following their 1-2 home loss to rivals Enyimba on Sunday.
Tale of the match
The Flying Antelopes headed into Sunday’s clash hoping to secure a first Oriental Derby win in five games, with Enyimba dominating the encounter in recent years.
The reverse fixture in December had ended goalless and with both sides pushing for a continental spot at the end of the season, the clash was expected to be an intense one.
The Peoples Elephant however took the lead in the first half through defender Innocent Gabriel Okey, before doubling their lead close to the half hour mark when striker Ekene Kennedy Awazie slotted home.
Rangers pulled one back in the second half through Chiedozie Okorie, but could not muster another goal as Enyimba secured a much-important victory.
What Ilechukwu said:
Speaking after the match, the 46-year old was unhappy with the result as his side lost at home for the sixth time this season.
He said: “It was not the result we wanted, but football showed itself again today. We had a bad first half where we let in two goals but came back stronger in the second stanza, got a goal back but failed to convert more chances that were created. It’s a painful loss, and we grieve over the loss.”
What next for Enugu Rangers?
Enugu Rangers have dropped to eighth on the Nigerian Premier Football League standings with 49 points, although they are just four points behind fourth-placed Ikorodu City as the race for a continental spot heats up.
Attention will now be shifted to the President Federation Cup for their quarterfinal matchup against Plateau United next weekend in Abuja, before heading to face Rivers United on the 7th of May.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
