By Sobenna Nwagbo

The “Flying Antelopes”, as Enugu Rangers International FC are called, went to Port Harcourt, Rivers State in the last Matchday One of the 2020/2021 Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL season with high hopes and determination. But their opponents, Rivers United, were not ready for any slip-ups at home.

The date was Wednesday, December 29, 2020 and the venue was at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium Port Harcourt.

The Flying Antelopes lost by a lone goal to their host, Rivers United in a match that had all the football artistry in display.

The match which was shown on Nigeria Television Authority, npfl.tv and Gotv channel 419 was officiated by Nigeria youngest FIFA badged Referee, Quadree O. from Lagos FA. The match saw the first red card in Nigeria Professional football league 2020/2021 season. With seven yellow cards and one red card to players of Rivers United and one yellow card to Rangers player, the match ended in favour of Rivers United with the maximum three points. Cletus Emotan was sent off after collecting his second yellow card in the match.

Rangers lost the match following few minutes lack of concentration in the defense line and complacency. Rangers showed dominance and entertained her spectators on television without converting any of her chances to goal. Rivers United’s opportunity was converted in 28th minutes of play by two former Rangers players Fortune Omoniwari, assisted by Godwin Aguda.

Next Rangers match is on Sunday 3rd January, 2021 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium Enugu aka “The Cathedral”, by 4pm with Akwa United Football Club of Uyo. No spectators please. Federal Government directives on Corona virus (covid -19) will be fully observed, but you can download npfl.tv on your smart phone through the Play store.