Head coach of Vinning United FC, Steve Ahua has lauded the effort of the boys in a closely contested campaign among participating teams of the 2022/23 NLO Division 2 season where they narrowly missed out on a potential play-off berth.
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They were edged out by Divine Praise FC on the final game day of the season despite picking a much-needed win against T.K. Bariga but Dominic Onyeji’s side got a vital point against Luqui Moly and with a higher goal difference, they made it through to the play-offs.
Assessing his teams’ overall performance throughout the season, the Benue-born tactician applauded the bravery of his players and their winning mentality even when they started on the wrong foot in an exclusive interview with Sports247.ng.
“We started well, the tempo just like we prepared before the game to press and deliver all that needed to be done in the first half and we did the justice that was expected but unfortunately we lost more than nine chances and that was heartbreaking considering that what we practiced was finishing the game by the first half,” he explained in his analysis of their 2-9 victory against T.K. Bariga.
“All the same, we woke up second half and tried to do the needful but fortunately, we grew into the game to consolidate our point, that was a good fight from the boys.”
“Overall this season, I will commend the boys because when we started this season, it was difficult. Bringing young ones that have not played together before, we had to do it within 24hrs.
We struggled with it, they had a fantastic beginning, but they need to gain confidence to play but as the season progresses after two losses, we picked up and started winning and here we are,” he added.
On a potential play-off spot – “If we get a chance for the playoff, we will prepare for it. I told the management that this is the time to do it right despite the shaky start that we had. It is an opportunity if we get it and we will grab it with two hands and make it work.”
For next season – “We will intensify our tactical play going forward, keep the squad together as we hope for quick recovery of our injured players, those not fit coming back fully fit so that we can be ready for the next season,” he concluded.
