Sunshine Stars now NPFL team to beat – Ogunbote

Sunshine Stars’ manager, Gbenga Ogunbote has said his side are now the team to beat in the on-going top-flight after a comprehensive defeat of former side and multiple champions, Enugu Rangers.

The Owena Whales defeated the Fly Antelopes 3-1 in Sunday’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 7 clash at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.

This victory is the first time in seven meetings that the Akure landlords will overwhelm the Coal City side in competitive matches.

The encounter also witnessed the sending off of each side’s key player due to altercation, Sunshine Stars’ defender, Bright Akpojuvewho and Rangers’ Ifeanyi Nweke.

Ogunbote said the defeat of the nation’s illustrious side has imbued more confidence in his wards to further pursue points away from home.

“For a team to have won 3-1 in the Nigerian league is deserving of a praise and against a notable side like the almighty Enugu Rangers should dominate the headlines for a long time to come.

“The encounter is a Grade A game given the pedigree of opposition and I think it was a good one for us.

“It will only give us courage and confidence that we can do it more and elsewhere as the league progresses.

“As it’s now every team will want to beat Sunshine Stars but all we need to do is to buckle up, take our chances and improve on our game.

“At away game if we are given a level playing ground we can still come out with a positive result.

“We are encouraged to go for more wonderful results in the remaining matches on the league calendar,” said the former Enyimba and Lobi Stars tactician.

The Akure side are fourth on the 20-team top-flight on 13 points two behind league leaders, Rivers United.

Next up for Sunshine Stars is a difficult visit to struggling side, Abia Warriors on Wednesday at their adopted ground, Okigwe Township Stadium for NPFL matchday 8 clash.