Nigeria women’s flag football captain and Abia Warriors quarterback Anuoluwapo Bello has revealed that the absence of the team’s coach became unexpected motivation behind the Warriors’ ruthless demolition of the Ibom Raptors in the latest round of the Showtime Bowl Series XIV.
The Warriors produced yet another dominant display, crushing the Raptors 53–7 to maintain their position at the top of the standings and further strengthen their reputation as the most feared team in Showtime Flag Football this season.
But speaking after the game, Bello admitted the circumstances surrounding the match forced the players to take even greater responsibility on the field.
“The absence of our coach motivated us to become ruthless,” Bello said after the victory.
“Everybody had to step up mentally. We knew we could not lose focus for even a second, so we played with intensity from the beginning to the end.”
Known for her composure, leadership, and ability to dictate the pace of games, Bello once again controlled the Warriors’ offense with authority, helping dismantle one of the league’s strongest playoff contenders in emphatic fashion.
The Nigeria captain made it clear that the Warriors are not satisfied with simply leading the table — their sights are fixed firmly on the championship trophy.
“Our eyes are on the trophy once again. That is the goal. Every game now is preparation for the bigger stage.”
The statement will undoubtedly send a warning across the rest of the league, especially with the regular season nearing its dramatic conclusion and playoff football fast approaching.
Week after week, the Warriors continue to combine explosive offense, disciplined defense, and relentless mentality — qualities that have made them the benchmark team in the Showtime Bowl Series XIV.
And if Bello’s words are anything to go by, the league leaders are not slowing down anytime soon.
The coach may have been absent…
but the Warriors delivered one of their most ruthless performances yet.
