Rangers International of Enugu coach, Gebnga Ogunbote has thrown more light on factors that led to his side stunning come-from-behind victory against Kano Pillars in the Federation Cup final, and acknowledged that the presence of Enugu State governor, Chief Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi at the stadium helped the team, sports247.ng reports.
Ogunbote said after his side stormed back from 3-0 down to force the game into penalties and win by lottery of the spot kick that some errors cause The Flying Antelopes to stumble, but thanked Governor Ugwuanyi and their supporters for sticking with the team.
The former Enyimba of Aba, Sunshine Stars of Akure and Shooting Stars of Ibadan handler took full responsibility for his side’s lapses, but said he was overjoyed after The Coal City outfit stunned Kano Pillars to lift their fifth FA Cup title at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
The game ended 3-3 at regulation time, after Rangers fought from three goals down to level against Pillars, backed by over 400 supporters, who had dominated the first half, much to the delight of cheering spectators.
However, in the ensuing shootout, Pillars’ duo of Rabiu Ali and Jimoh Ismaila lost their penalties, while Rangers scored all five of their, ending the game 5-3 to lift the trophy.
Ogunbote said Ugwuanyi’s presence saw them through and attributed his team’s comeback victory to determination and teamwork.
He added: “Frankly speaking, we made a huge mistake in our game tonight, we gave away possessions and that gave our opponents so many chances. But as a coach, I take blame whether we won or lost.
“However, during the first half break, we told ourselves the truth, we talked to one another and realised we could still make it. We believe in our determination to fight back and it paid off.
“But most importantly, the presence of our governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, who came to our dressing room to have a talk with the players made a huge difference too. He is a father figure to us.
“The governor charged the players not to lose hope in the remaining 45 minutes of play. He assured them of his support and told them to give their best in the remaining half of the game.”
