A Godwin Obaje’s late spot-kick expertly tucked away past experienced Suraj Ayeleso who stood between the sticks for Plateau United ensured that the Federation Cup Multi-titlist, Rangers International F.C of Enugu booked their passage to its 13th final appearance in the oldest club competition in the country with a 1-0 win inside Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu-Ode.
Coach Abdul Maikaba in a post-match chat, said, “I am a very happy man today after winning against my former side, Plateau United. It was a hard-fought encounter that could have gone either way but after our tactical change in the second half which pushed our opponent back and in one of our forays upfront, we were rewarded with a clear penalty call almost in the 90th minute of play and we converted to qualify for the final. Congratulations to all Rangers fans. It is my desire to win the Federation Cup for Rangers for the seventh time.”
Administrative Secretary of the Enugu side, Barrister Ferdinand Ugwuarua, said, “It was a very tough encounter which Plateau United had to succumb at the very last minute of the encounter. We take each game as they come and I am very sure that our final match against old rivals, Bendel Insurance F.C would be used to present a welcome gift to the new governor of Enugu state, H.E, Dr. Peter Mbah.”
Match winner, Godwin Obaje said, “I give God all the glory for our win today over Plateau United. It was a very difficult match as Plateau is not a push-over. But due to our tactical discipline and determination to qualify. Scoring the late penalty was very difficult but with experience, I had to steel my nerves to score and ensure that our supporters who have been there for us, are given something to cheer this season.”
Rangers will play old rivals, Insurance F.C of Benin who have been on a roller-coaster ride since the start of the season for the third final match between both side with Insurance enjoying a 3-0 win in the 1978 final while Rangers replied with a 2-0 spanking of the ‘Benin Arsenals’ in the 1981 finals.
Credit: Norbert Okolie, media officer, Rangers Int’l.
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