Rangers head coach Abdul Maikaba was pleased with the performance of his players after their 1-1 draw with Sunshine Stars at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
The match day 13 contest of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) between the two teams ended in a draw again after their previous meeting in Awka earlier this season also finished in a similar scoreline.
It’s been a topsy-turvy season for the Flying Antelopes but they gave one of their best performances to earn a well deserved point on the road. Sunshine Stars got the game’s opening goal in the 14th minute through Ibrahim Yusuf before Chidiebere Nwobodo dragged Rangers level before the half-hour mark.
After that equalizer, the Enugu side dominated proceedings and should have scored on separate occasions. However, a late goal from Sunshine Stars’ Ibrahim was ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Emeka Nwabulu as the two teams settled for a share of the spoils.
Speaking after the game, Maikaba was adamant that his side’s plan was to win the game but they are pleased with the point they got after last week’s draw at home against Lobi Stars.
“I actually came here to win but the early goal conceded demoralized the boys,” began the former Akwa United gaffer.
“But the determination was there in the boys which gave us the equalizer and had more opportunity to go ahead early in the second half, but was missed. I think it was a fair result to both sides as we keep working to ensure we end the season well.”
Rangers stay in 7th spot on the Group B log with 14 points from 13 matches and will next play Niger Tornadoes in a match day 14 fixture at the Awka City Stadium next weekend.
