Abia Warriors manager, Imama Amapakabo has said his understanding of the techniques of his former boss and head coach of Enugu Rangers, Salisu Yusuf, helped him claim victory in the oriental derby.
A 10-man Umuahia Warriors outfit pipped hard-fighting Coal City side 1-0 in Monday’s (February 15) Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 10 clash at adopted ground, Okigwe Township Stadium.
Amapakabo said he had to dig deep into his reservoir of knowledge knowing the pedigree of his opposite to be able to undo him tactically.
“Well, this is another game in the league we have to play. Fortunately, I knew this particular game would be highly tactical and we applied ourselves creditably so I give kudos to the players for the victory.
“Fortunately, I have worked with Coach Salisu Yusuf, arguably one of the best coaches in Nigeria and I seem to understand how he functions.
“We worked together in the club and national team, too so I could also guess or predict how he is going to act.
“I think or should I say I was lucky or tactically I got his game plan all right to help us claim this vital victory,” said the former Enugu Rangers tactician.
Amapakabo admitted that the sending off of his player, Daniel Wotlia altered his game plan for the all important match.
“Every coach goes into a match not knowing what to deal with in the entire game so when the red card came I had to look at my bench and personnel and it changed our tactical approach to the game completely.
“The red card caused the instant changes even though I would still have gone ahead to effect some changes in the course of the game.
“Every game is different from the other one, I try as much as possible as a coach to make the players have self-believe in whatever we are doing.
“Today’s match has come and gone the one in front at Warri Wolves is what is occupying my attention at the moment,” said the former Nigerian shot stopper.
The Umuahia side are 17th on the 20-team top-flight log on nine points 12 behind league leaders, Kwara United.
Story by Humphrey Njoku
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