..Ikorodu City Creeps Into Top-3 With Win Over Lobi Stars_
By: Chinedum Ohanusi
The misery of basement club, Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi, took a twist, apparently for the worse on Tuesday, with Mohammed Baba Ganaru, who was at the relegation threatened club for a second stint; announcing his departure, in bizarre circumstances.
The club which only on Saturday lost 0-1 to Ikorodu City, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu – their third home ground this season – having started off at the Lafia Township Stadium, before moving to Bauchi.
But while the clubs hierarchy has yet to comment on the development; Baba Ganaru, a two-time NPFL-winning coach with Kano Pillars FC, has confirmed his departure, calling it a short supervisory stint (three weeks) with the side, which also appears to be having a catalogue of boardroom hiccups.
And contrary to earlier reports, Baba Ganaru also clarified that he did not sign any official contract, to work as Technical Adviser or Head Coach of Lobi Stars for next season.
Meanwhile, Technical Adviser of Rangers Int’l FC, Fidelis Ilechukwu says his players no doubt underestimated the threat a relegation side like Akwa United FC could pose; saying his team paid dearly for that, in Sunday’s 1-1 draw with the Promise Keepers from Uyo, which he later described as a “big set back” for the NPFL defending champions.
A few weeks ago, Ilechukwu had all but conceded the 2024/25 NPFL title, saying the trophy looks certain to be headed to Ikenne-Remo, the base of Remo Stars FC. But in the e interview, he was upbeat Rangers Int’l FC will finish in the top 3 this season, or win the President Federation Cup, and qualify to fly Nigeria’s banner in either of the two CAF Inter-Club championships.
But a run of underwhelming results in recent away games, culminating in a come from behind draw, against 19th in the table, Akwa United FC means the Flying Antelopes are now 12 hefty points, off the pace of Remo Stars FC, and 2 points adrift of ‘Oga Boys’ Ikorodu United FC who at present occupies the 3rd spot on the log.
Despite starting the 2024/25 season on the back foot, until a managerial change was effected, as Ikorodu City have had a remarkable change in fortune, and a run that has seen the side playing their first NPFL season, climb into 3rd spot with their road win over hapless Lobi Stars in Enugu.
And with the chasing pack, consisting of Rivers United FC (46 points), Shooting Stars SC (43 points), Rangers Int’l and Kano Pillars FC (42 points); unable to show any consistency, it will be interesting to see how promoted Ikorodu City mixes things up with the big boys, in the run-in!
