As the NPFL Super Six kicks off today Saturday June 3 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan Lagos, head coach of reigning champions Rivers United, Stanley Eguma has warned other Super Six opponents that his team is here to defend their title.
“Because as defending champions, we should respect every opposition. We know that a period like this will come up and that is why we are prepared towards it. The thing is that, we are the centre of all eyes. Everybody want to beat the defending champions to pick the trophy. But we too, we will work above our capacity. We will not relent, to ensure that we retain our title”. Eguma said.
The Rivers United gaffer commended the Interim Management Committee IMC for the way the abridged league has been conducted so far, despite the pressure that comes with playing just few games.
He acknowledged the strenght of today’s opponent, Sunshine Stars of Akure while reiterating his team’s commitment to retain their crown.
“The abridged league is a short-term league. It has a lot of pressure because you play regularly within a short period of time. But the IMC has made things very easy. They have been able to conduct the regular league well.
“It’s a tough fixture. You know Sunshine has been a very strong team, especially when it comes to Rivers United, they are always very strong. I’m expecting a very tough opposition from Sunshine but don’t forget that we are defending champions and we are here to defend our title so we are not perturbed”.
Meanwhile, captain of the pride of Rivers, Festus Austin has assured that his team will put in every effort to win the league despite having more experience from continental assignments earlier this season.
“We will work hard and I believe we will get it right and defend the title. I think we’ve got a little experience from the continent but we won’t put that as an advantage for us but we will just do our job, believing at the end, we are going to defend the title.
We’re here for a tournament and it’s not just all about the draw because we are going to play five games throughout the tournament so we’ve already prepared our mind to meet any team that comes our way and I believe at the end, we will get victory.” The Rivers United captain assured.
Rivers United schedule for 2022/2023 NPFL Championship Play-off
Saturday 3rd June, 2023
- Sunshine Stars vs Rivers United – 4pm
Monday 5th June 2023
2 Rivers United vs Remo Stars – 4pm
Wednesday 7th June 2023
- Lobi Stars vs Rivers United – 6pm
Friday 9th June 2023
- Rivers United vs Bendel Insurance – 2pm
Sunday 11th June 2023
- Enyimba vs Rivers United – 6pm
Photo credit: Sunday Braimah
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