By Sobenna Nwagbo

Although the result of the match have been archived since Sunday, however, Rangers International FC of Enugu players are still receiving rewards for their 3-0 away thrashing of Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL champions, Akwa United in Uyo on Sunday, www bestchoicesports.com.ng can report.

This is coming as prominent individuals and supporters of the Flying Antelopes who made various pledges to the players ahead of the Sunday cracker are beginning to redeem their promises.

It could be recalled that during the last training session at the Rangers Training Field, Enugu on Friday 11th March, 2022, the players were condemned to win Akwa United in Uyo and receive one benefit or the other.

The Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Manfred Nzekwe while addressing the players in the company of the State Football Association Chairman, Barr. Tony Ugwu, and the National Chairman of Rangers Supporters Club, Dr. Orji Iloakasi, staked his one month salary for the players should they win the match in Uyo.

The Commissioner who was at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium to see the victory himself reminded the players at the dressing room, that he wasn’t joking, when at the end of first half the players hadn’t scored. This may be part of what inspired the players to put more effort in the game.

And at the end of 90 minutes the boys delivered, Hon. Manfred Nzekwe was quick to transfer the said amount to the club Captain, Tope Olusesi.

Also, the matchday coincided with the birthday of the club Administrative Secretary, Barr. Ferdinand Emeka Ugwuerua. He told the players, “kindly celebrate my birthday for me and I will celebrate you by hosting you for a dinner tonight. There will be no birthday gift than winning match for me,” he had pleased with the players who delivered accordingly.

In fulfilment of the promise, the players and officials accompanied by some Akwa Ibom State supporters later converged at the hotel for merriments in celebration of the total victory and birthday celebration of the Administrative Secretary. The dinning and winning was sponsored by the Secretary and the F. A. Chairman, Barr. Ugwu.

On the other hand, former Rangers Team Manager, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku also promised the boys two hundred thousand naira, once they win the Uyo match for him. Immediately Amobi heard the result, he transferred the money to the club captain’s account.

All these rain of blessings are different from their match bonuses and other appreciations yet to come as rewards for a job well done.

Since his appointment at the commencement of the 2021/2022 NPFL season, Rangers Technical Adviser Abdul Maikaba have reinvigorated the spirit of the players as they keep churning out spectacular perfoamces especially away from home.

Rangers are currently 3rd on the log with 31 points from 18 matches. They are 8 points off the table toppers, Rivers United who have 39 points.

The Flying Antelopes will face Lobi Stars in Anambra in matchday 19 clash this weekend.