Head Coach of Campos FC of Owerri, Chibueze Gaptus, has reassured fans of a stronger and more competitive team in the next edition of the Nationwide League One (NLO), following his side’s second-place finish in the just-concluded NLO Promotional Playoff held in Portharcourt.

Speaking to journalists after the tournament, Gaptus expressed disappointment over his team’s inability to clinch the only promotion slot available in their center, due to bad officiating, but remained optimistic about the future.

Campos FC finished second in the group with six points, registering impressive victories over Ahudiyannem FC and FC One Rocket. However, an opening match defeat to eventual group winners, E-World United FC of Uyo, cost them the top spot and the coveted promotion ticket.

Reflecting on the team’s performance, Gaptus said:
“My players were not mentally prepared for the playoffs considering the incidents that preceded it. It really pushed us off, but when the letter was eventually released for us to participate, the boys’ morale was low. That was why we lost the first match, coupled with the bad officiating that was exhibited by the referees which denied us some goal scoring opportunities.  But we eventually picked up, and it was late. We gave it our all, but the deed was already done . We apologize to our numerous fans and ask them to continue to have faith in us. We would be better next time.”

The young coach also expressed his gratitude to the club’s management for their unwavering support throughout the campaign. He particularly praised the efforts of forward Benjamin Onyedikachi, who emerged as one of the top performers of the tournament by netting five goals in three matches.

Group standings from the playoff saw E-World United FC of Uyo finish top with nine points, followed by Campos FC with six points. FC One Rocket and Ahudiyannem both ended with a point apiece.

Campos FC fans will now look ahead with hope as Gaptus and his team regroup and prepare for the next season, determined to return stronger and secure promotion.