Enugu Rangers International Football Club secured a commanding victory over Gombe United FC in an intense fixture of the rescheduled 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL.
The game unfolded with Gombe United taking the lead in the 17th minute when Rangers’ goalkeeper faltered in dealing with a cross from the left flank. Yet, the resilient veteran striker, Godwin Obaje, swiftly restored parity for the home team with a goal in the 19th minute, igniting hope among the fervent fans.
Obaje further bolstered Rangers’ position, seizing a 2-0 lead from a well-executed spot kick shortly after a foul on the goal-bound Kazeem Ogunleye. This propelled the flying antelopes to a halftime advantage.
As the second half commenced, Gombe United launched a determined offensive, driving the home team into their own territory. Nonetheless, their resurgence was fleeting, as Chidiebere Nwobodo extended the lead with a third goal. Shortly thereafter, Ugochukwu Agu decisively secured the victory with a fourth goal from a free kick just outside the eighteen-yard box.
Following the match, Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu expressed satisfaction with the win but affirmed that the team’s ultimate goal is yet to be attained, stating, “We are yet to reach the position we ought to be.”
Conversely, Gombe United’s Coach, Alhaji Kwaranga, attributed his team’s subpar performance to fatigue, emphasizing, “We lost due to fatigue. We arrived in Enugu this morning.” The Nigerian News Agency, NAN, reported their remarks.
The resounding triumph of Enugu Rangers FC serves as a testament to their unwavering prowess and determination in the NPFL, amplifying their quest for excellence in the league.
