Ilechukwu: Beating Ikorodu City was what we needed after CAF Champions League elimination

Rangers international of Enugu head coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu expressed his delight Wednesday after his side defeated Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL debutant, Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena at Onikan, Lagos.

It was the ‘Flying Antelopes’ first game after crashing out of the CAF Champions League at the second preliminary stage.

‘It was an important win for us to calm our players, management and supporters after our elimination from the continent. We thank God for the three points, and we need to work harder to ensure we get much better results in other games on the road.

‘I am happy. It was a good game and my players showed quality and a lot of energy as we played against a young side full of running and equally a good side,’ said Ilechukwu after the game.

A 25th minute glancing header by captain Chinemerem Ugwueze off a well taken corner-kick by Kazeem Ogunleye which nestled inside the net turned out to be the only goal of the rescheduled match day 2 tie and it was Rangers’ first away win of the season.

Goalscorer Ugwueze also shared in his coach’s sentiments after the game.

‘I feel excited the goal proved to be an important goal for the team and that is also good for us to maintain the maximum three points and from here, we are going forward of course.

‘The three points will go a long way for us at least. It will boost our morale. It was not an easy win for us as our opponent were able to put up a very good fight against the champions of Nigeria Premier Football League.’

Rangers will this weekend face table topping Remo Stars F.C in a match day 4 fixture at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Ogun State.