Strong start helps Elkanemi Warriors retain NPFL spot- Coach Aliyu Zubairu
Strong start helps Elkanemi Warriors retain NPFL spot- Coach Aliyu Zubairu
The Technical Adviser of Elkanemi Warriors, Coach Aliyu Zubairu, has downplayed the team's retention of their Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) slot, attributing it to the team's strong performance in the early stages of the season.
Elkanemi Warriors defeated the reelagated Sunshine Stars of Akure on the last day of the league 1-0 to ensure they remain in the NPFL. The Warriors finished 16th on the log with 49 points.
According to Coach Zubairu who also doubles as the Head Coach of the Flying Eagles of Nigeria, Elkanemi Warriors started experiencing challenges from around week 21 of the league, which he believes marked a turning point in their campaign.
However, he noted that the team's position among the top five teams up to week 18 laid the foundation for their eventual slot retention.
"I think we started getting things wrong from week 21, but up till week 18, the team was among the first five," Coach Zubairu said. "The season was a very good one, considering the promptness of the league management in ensuring that we followed the schedule and the league calendar to the letter."
Coach Zubairu also commended the NPFL management under the leadership of Mr. Elegbeleye for doing a great job in organizing the league. "I think the league management under Elegbeleye really deserves commendation for doing a great job," he added.
The Technical Adviser's comments suggest that while Elkanemi Warriors may not have had a perfect season, they were able to capitalize on their strong start to secure their NPFL slot.
"I would also like to commend our technical crew,management, players fans, and backroom staff of the club for their commitment in the just concluded season.