Rangers International technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu says he is under no pressure to maintain his side’s strong start to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
The ‘Working One’, who is also an assistant coach with the Super Eagles, was speaking after Rangers defeated Kwara United 1-0 in their Matchday 12 fixture in Awka on Sunday.
Victor Chimezie scored the only goal five minutes before half-time to give the Coal City Flying Antelopes all three points.
Kwara United applied sustained pressure after the interval, but Rangers’ defence held firm to secure the club’s first victory over the Ilorin-based side in two seasons.
Ilechukwu confident in Rangers’ plan
Asked whether he had felt under pressure while Kwara United controlled parts of the second half, Ilechukwu said his team’s preparation had given him confidence.
“I’m not under pressure at all,” the Rangers tactician said.
“I wasn’t under any pressure because we had a game plan. Besides, we’ve a good defence that can stand up against any challenge.”
The victory was Rangers’ second in four days. They had beaten Bendel Insurance 1-0 at the same venue on Wednesday in a rescheduled Matchday 9 match.
Ilechukwu said overcoming Kwara United was particularly significant because of Rangers’ recent record against them.
“We’re so happy with this game because we prepared for it. We’ve not beaten Kwara United in the past two seasons, and we knew it was going to be a tough one because they have a very good team, as you can see from what they showed today.
“They showed class, but thank God we’re going home with the most important thing, which is the three points,” he said.
The result kept Rangers at the top of the NPFL table on 24 points from 12 matches. They are three points clear of second-placed Bendel Insurance and have a game in hand.
Coach praises Rangers support
Ilechukwu, who has also managed MFM FC, Plateau United, Heartland and Rangers, called on the club’s supporters to remain patient and continue backing the team throughout the campaign.
He praised their commitment, particularly the long journeys they have made to support Rangers.
“I want the fans to understand that we love them so much. From Owerri, they were always there with us and for us. From Abeokuta to this place (Awka), they are always here as well.
“It’s not always easy to have the fans 100 per cent behind you all the time. Their support has been massive, and we’re so happy.
“We keep believing in what we can do because the league has just started. It’s about 12 games now. We will keep pushing to see what we can achieve at the end of the season,” Ilechukwu concluded.