Gateway Football Club head coach, Ayo Filani, has expressed delight and relief following his team’s first win of the season—a hard-fought 2–1 home victory over Crown FC, describing the result as a turning point for the campaign.
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The win, secured at home, was inspired by a brilliant brace from Babatunde Taofeek, whose goals sealed all three points after a challenging start to the season that saw Gateway FC record three defeat and two draws in their opening matches.
Speaking after the match, Coach Filani admitted that recent performances had not fully reflected the team’s quality, particularly in earlier games.
“We lost our first game and drew two others. It was beginning to look like we were doing better in first halves, then sleeping as if nothing was at stake,” Filani said. “Today, the players understood the importance of this game.”
The Gateway FC boss also emphasized the emotional weight of the victory, noting that failure to secure maximum points would have dampened the festive mood around the club.
“We won’t have a good Christmas if we didn’t win this game—that’s the truth,” he stated candidly.
When asked if the win could be considered a Christmas gift, Filani dedicated the result to the club’s loyal supporters.
“Yes, it’s a gift to all our fans. They come to watch us every match. They keep telling us, ‘You guys are doing well, but the results are not speaking well.’ I am happy that now we’ve been able to combine good football with good results.”
Filani revealed that he had urged his players to play with freedom and belief, particularly after a run of games without goals.
“I told the players I was ready to celebrate because we haven’t celebrated goals in the last few games,” he said. “I’m so happy—for myself, for the boys, and for the club. From now on, this result will boost their confidence level.”
Looking ahead, Gateway FC now turn their attention to their next fixture—an away trip, which Filani believes presents another opportunity to make a statement.
“We have been beaten at home and drawn at home before,” he added. “We can also go away and do the same—win or get a positive result.”
With momentum finally on their side, Gateway FC will hope the victory over Crown FC marks the beginning of a stronger run as the season progresses.
