The slim win against Enyimba in Lafia on Saturday has further boosted not just the morale of the lobi Stars players but also that of coach Eugene Agagbe, who now believes his side is equal to the task of winning the 2023/2024 NPFL season, Nigeeriasoccernet.com can reports
The Pride of Benue pipped the People's Elephant by a lone goal thanks to Alao Danbani's 58th minute goal.
The win put them level on points with Enugu Rangers who suffered a 4-3 loss in Kastina, although they have an inferior goal difference.
Speaking after the game, Agagbe who believed his players showcased true character that is capable of producing results said they will pick valuable points away starting with the next game at Ibadan against 3SC.
"As a coach, you must have your strategy to win your matches. In the first half, I told them how they were going to play. It's over three months that I have played them in Aba and they might have changed one or two players. I studied in the first half and the second half, I changed my strategy to get my three points.
"My players are up to the task. You will see them play. It is the same character that they put in Lagos that they showed in the game. In Lagos, Sporting were ahead but in the second half we came up with something and we changed the face of the game in Lagos.
"In the Enyimba's game, they are equal to the task because the boys are good to go anywhere and anytime. I am ready to go for the season. I told them in Lagos that the trophy is gradually dragging to Benue State.
"We have some good away games to pick before the season ends. We are playing against 3SC. Many teams have gone there to draw and win them. I have put down a strategy to go there get my points and come back. The highest Shooting Stars can get in Ibadan is a draw. Hold me when you see me next."
After coming weekend trip to Ibadan, they will host Bendel Insurance in Lafia before embarking on a trip to Gombe where they will face Gombe United in what looks like a winnable away fixture for them going by the form of both teams.
By Oluwayemi Omolagba