Abakaliki FC Skipper Praises Fans, Demands More After First Bank Triumph

Abakaliki FC captain, Emmanuel Ugochukwu, has expressed delight over his team’s latest victory where they defeated First Bank FC with a lone goal, calling on fans to keep the faith as the club intensifies its push for promotion.

Ugochukwu while speaking with newsmen shortly after the home match at the Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki said the players are fully committed to giving their best in every match, stressing that the team draws strength from the unwavering support of its supporters.

Also reacting, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Richard Idike, described the win as a major boost to the club’s ambition of topping their group. He praised both the players and the technical crew for their impressive performances. “I’m very happy because our boys are doing well, just like the head coach. Our decision to start with him as interim and later confirm him as head coach has not disappointed us. Our target is clear, we want promotion to the Premier League,” Idike said.

He added that while the team has been solid, more goals are expected from the strikers, assuring that the coach is already working on that area. Head coach, Starplus Izuikem Anista, said he was highly impressed with the performance of both teams, describing the encounter as tough but rewarding. “It was a hard fight for the three points. I commend both sides for their outstanding display. However, climbing to the top is not the hard part, staying there is the real target,” Anista noted. On the opposing side, Duke Udi, former Super Eagles player and coach of First Bank FC, acknowledged Abakaliki FC’s quality, admitting his team was beaten by a stronger side. “We lost to a good team. I congratulate them. This was my first away match since taking over, and we will go back to work and improve,” Udi said. With the latest victory, Abakaliki FC have boosted their confidence and momentum as they continue their campaign for promotion to the Premier League.