Rangers head Coach Abdullahi Maikaba did not hide his dissatisfaction with his team’s performance in the defeat to Lobi Stars over the weekend and he made criticized some of his players for their attitude in the game.
Rangers were in control against the hosts, but a break in communication between goalkeeper and defenders, ensured that the Flying Antelopes left the Aper Aku Stadium empty handed.
On 65 minutes, Raphael Ayagwa converted from the penalty spot in his second attempt after his first effort was brilliantly stopped by Seidu Mutawakilu but the assistant referee ordered for a re-take of the kick to the surprise of the majority of fans that packed inside the stadium.
Kenechukwu Agu had three opportunities to draw his side level in minutes 78, 82, and 84, but the defenders and goalkeeper of the home side threw themselves on the firing line to deny any of them from resting in the net.
And on the 86 minute, a harmless clearance from the arc of the center circle found its way past a hesitant, Ebuka Anthony and Ernest Governor as substitute.
Utim Godfrey, reacted fastest to slot home past a stranded Seidu Mutawakilu for the second goal of the encounter for the host.
Speaking to journalists, Coach Abdul Maikaba said, he had reservation about the performance of the match officials, and also called out his defenders for their poor showing.
“This was not the result we expected from this game as my boys did their best but it was not enough to get us any point for their efforts.”
” Also, my defenders failed to react well leading to the second goal just as I have my reservations over the call for the penalty to be re-taken after the first one was stopped.”
“We thank God for the match and will work on the weak links in the team before our next match.”
Despite the defeat ,Rangers remain 3rd position on the log with 34 points from 20 matches and will next play Katsina United in a matchday 21 fixture on Wednesday at the Awka City stadium.
