Inspired by the performance in last Sunday’s season’s opener against champions, Rivers United, on the road, two-time Nigerian champions, Lobi Stars, is in a winning mood to overrun troubled Rangers, in Jos, on match day two of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
Lobi Stars need to win following the defeat at Rivers United to kick start their stay in Jos and boost confidence in the team.
This fixture has a rich history considering the distance between Makurdi and Enugu. However, both sides play away from home this term.
Rangers won the last meeting in Awka, which was an eight-goal thriller that produced all the fireworks, while Lobi won in the previous encounter, in Makurdi.
Rangers are presently under pressure after losing their opening match at home to Abia Warriors and have a mountain to climb in Jos.
Interestingly, Jos is familiar breeding ground for Lobi Stars.
Although, this is Mohammed Baba Ganaru’s first meeting against Rangers, as Lobi coach, he knows the visitors very well.
Speaking with Lobi Stars Media Team in his traditional pre match presser, Ganaru expressed confidence of victory.
“I am impressed with the performance of the players at Rivers United. It is an indication that with the right approach we can subdue Rangers on Wednesday”.
Imposing Abba Umar, who scored his first and the club’s goal away believes he can continue with his present form.
“I thank the Almighty God for giving me grace to score against the defending champions. We were unlucky in Port-Harcourt and now optimistic of a better performance against Enugu Rangers to earn our first victory”.
The former Plateau United and Katsina United striker applauded the team for their performance away.
“We had the right mentality in Port-Harcourt and need to stay focused,” he stated.
Wing backs, John Lazarus and Akile Monday, have shown adaptability with the attack to boost goal scoring opportunities.
Rangers Head Coach, Abdul Maikaba, is not unaware of the challenges in his team after their defeat at home and will be out to make a statement.
Maikaba will bank on Reuben Bala to boost his attack and skipper, Uche John, to re-energise the defence, while the experience of Ejike Uzoenyi will count in the second half.
All eyes will be on Ganaru and Maikaba, who have come a long way from their days at relegated Kano Pillars.
Expect an entertaining clash from both teams, who are former NPFL champions.
Indeed, Jos fans are in for a thriller!
