BY SAB OSUJI

 

Dead-ball specialist, Adolf Nnaama Ezenwata, is thrilled that his boyhood club, Rangers International, snatched their eighth (8) top domestic football silverware at the close of the 2023/2024 season, revealing that appointment of Barrister Amobi Ezeaku as Chief Executive Officer of the club prior to the start of the campaign convinced him the Coal City Flying Antelopes were in for the big groves, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

"As my former club, I expected them to win. That has always been my prayers for the club I loved from my childhood. But when that young man, Barrister Amobi Ezeaku, was appointed as General Manager/Chief Executive Officer, CEO, I became convinced Rangerswere in for a glorious finish", Ezenwata said.

Ezenwata's illustrious career spanned through Jasper United (as captain), Enyimba and Rangers. He was an U20 National Team, Flying Eagles invitee.

The Umuchu, Anambra State born defender was strong in both legs, with exceptional quality in deadbolt situation, free kick, spot kick, corner kicks and throw-ins. At some points, he was referred to as the new 'Moses Otolorin', the famous IICC Shooting Stars (now 3SC)Ibadan long thrower).

Rangers finished top of the standings at the end of the 2023/2024 season, earning their 8th domestic league title in emphatic fashion, thus, getting the bragging right to make their 11th appearance in the CAF Champions League.

Ezenwata remains confident that Rangers can pull the chestnut from the continental fire.

"Why not? It's all about players discipline, dedication, hard work and above all, adequate funding by the government.

"They have an experienced manager, (Barrister Ezeaku), who has tasted the waters. And once players see money, and always get their entitlements, they put their noses in front in order not to lose their work.

"Don't forget, the coach, Fidelis Ilechuchukwu, is not new to the continental top clubside football showpiece. He's been there with several clubs before and knows the system inside out".

The Coal City Flying Antelopes will get their continental glory hunt underway 17 August 2024 with a trip to Union Sportive, Comoros and Ezenwata says the Antelopes shock the Island Team even in their bedroom.

"During our time, you try get the opponent's past match video tapes and study it before mapping out your strategies for the game. 

"If they do this, have an idea of how they play at their home, the kind of player they have, and all that, then, Rangers are good to go".