Fidelis Ilechukwu hails resolute Enugu Rangers for securing draw at Akwa United

By Wale Mustapha

Enugu Rangers’ coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has praised his players for their resilient performance that earned the club a hard-fought point against Akwa United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Flying Antelopes held on to secure a goalless draw against the Promise Keepers in their Matchday Eight encounter in Uyo on Monday.

Despite being under pressure for much of the game, Rangers stood firm defensively, frustrating Akwa United’s efforts to break the deadlock.

The Coal City club were also on the verge of snatching a late victory, with a late chance that was not converted, but Ilechukwu was pleased with his team’s determination and defensive discipline.

“Our opponent gave us a good fight, but we were resolute at the back and could have gotten the winner late in the game,” Ilechukwu said, speaking to Rangers’ media team.

“Akwa fought very hard, created chances, but could not take them, and that’s football.”

Reflecting on the team’s improvement since their last league outing, a 4-3 home defeat to Kano Pillars, the coach revealed that the result was a positive shift.

“After our loss at home, we had some heart-to-heart talks, which to a large extent helped us with this result, and we are happy with it.”

With the draw, the reigning champions now have 11 points from eight matches, occupying the 8th spot on the NPFL table.

Rangers will next face Kwara United in a Matchday Nine fixture this weekend at the Kwara State Stadium in Ilorin, where they will be aiming to build on their solid defensive performance.