Technical adviser of Rangers International F.C of Enugu and his wards have their eyes fixed at annexing all points at stake when they engage Lobi Stars F.C of Makurdi at their adopted home ground, New Jos Stadium, Jos, when both sides clash in a match day 2, NPFL 2022/2023 season.
The encounter will take place on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 in Jos and the ‘Flying Antelopes’ crew are optimistic of upsetting the apple-cart to ensure that thei lolr target is achieved at the end of the season after the shocking 0-2 loss to Abia Warriors in a match day 1 encounter in Awka at the weekend.
With fresh legs as Austin Onyemaechi, Kingsley Maduforo, Bala Reuben combining well with the likes of Elijah Ani, Samuel Pam and Chidiebere Nwobodo, Rangers’ ambition of emerging winners in Jos is realizable.
Maikaba said ahead of the match after his team’ training session at the New Jos stadium, Tuesday, “The game in Jos is winnable and we have our eyes set at achieving that against a tough side like Lobi Stars. The boys understand what is at stake and are focused at actualizing our set target at the end of the season despite the shocking loss to Abia Warriors in our league opening match at home.”
He further stated, “Our only injury worries going into this fixture is that of our captain and there is a capable replacement and all we ask for is for prayers from our teaming supporters as we go for the best possible result.”
Coach Maikaba’ opposite number for Lobi Stars, Baba Ganaru Mohammed in his submission ahead of the clash, said, “We have put behind us the loss in Port-Harcourt against the league defending champions and are focused on the game against Rangers. We are going to see how we can make some adjustments going into this fixture to ensure we come out with the desired result which is picking the maximum points at stake. It is my belief that we are going to have a very good match against Rangers.”
Also speaking, captain of the side, Uche John, who is out injured, said, “We are set for a good game in Jos. The team is physically and psychologically prepared for the match against Lobi Stars. The motivation is also very high.”
When both sides clashed in a preseason friendly encounter at the Awka City Stadium, late last year, Rangers smiled away with a 1-0 victory just as both sides have played thirty official matches with the Makurdi side winning fifteen, Rangers earning ten victories while five encounters ended in draws.
