Bayelsa Queens head coach Ogbonda Whyte has praised his players for their resilience and character following their 2-0 victory over Ekiti Queens, a result that saw Bayelsa Queens finish top of Group A at the end of the first stanza of the 2025/26 NWFL Premiership season.
READ ALSO: Ekiti Queens Coach Jacob Vandy Slams Poor Officiating After Bayelsa Queens Defeat
Speaking to the press after the match, the coach admitted that the team needed a strong response after a difficult previous outing away from home.
“I would say the team performed very well today,” Ogbonda said.
“After our last loss away, the morale of the team dropped. We had to psych them up to get this result. Considering that they had not lost many matches from last season till now, that defeat affected them mentally. But they showed character today to get the points, and I’m proud of them.”
Recruitment and Squad Strengthening
Addressing questions on recruitment and the team’s attacking challenges, especially in the absence of some key players, Ogbonda confirmed that Bayelsa Queens will reinforce ahead of the second round.
“In terms of recruitment, especially in attack, we know Janet is not here and the absence of Aderemi has affected the team,” he explained.
“This is not the time to go to the grassroots for players, so we are looking to strengthen the attacking areas. Before the start of the second round, we will address the grey areas we noticed.”
The coach also revealed that former Bayelsa Queens player Gloria has returned to the club after a stint abroad and will be part of the squad for the second stanza.
Style of Play and Tactical Approach
On concerns about the team’s tendency to play long balls rather than build from the back, Ogbonda defended his tactical choices while acknowledging areas for improvement.
“Sometimes it has to do with the midfielders not dropping back to collect the ball from the defenders,” he said.
“When that happens, the defenders have no option than to clear the ball forward. Trying to show too much skill in our 18-yard box can cost us goals.”
He added that the team’s approach is based on effectiveness rather than aesthetics.
“If we have fast attackers who can run, we don’t need to keep the ball too long in midfield. One, two, three passes and the ball goes forward. What we are looking for is victory, not tiki-taka or people clapping for us. As they say, play badly and win.”
Bayelsa Queens will now shift focus to preparations for the second round of the NWFL Premiership, as they aim to build on a strong first stanza and maintain their push for domestic success.
