BY SAB OSUJI

Once dreaded 'Naze Millionaires', Heartland of Owerri came from behind to hold Coal City Flying Antelopes, Rangers to a one all draw in a high profile 'Oriental Derby' Preseason fixture at the new South East 'Mecca of Soccer', Awka City Stadium, on Thursday afternoon, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Fidelis Ilechukwu's men put Christian Obi's charges on the hangman's cliff late into the first period when Joel Okoro scored the opening goal of the match in the 44th minute.

Eight minutes into the second period, Heartland came back on level terms as Tunde Oyewole  drew level for the hosts on 53rd minute. 

Heartland had previously dusted Ingas FC, 3-1 in an earlier tune up clash as manager Christian Obi continues to fine tune his squad ahead the coming 2023/2024 NPL season billed to get underway on September 9.

Heartland arrived Awka about two weeks for concentration Camping ahead the coming season. The newly promoted side were unbeaten although their 2022/2023 campaign in the second tier league, NNL.

They equally replicated that form at the Super 8 playoffs in Asaba, where they did not only fight their way back to the top flight but also emerged the overall NNL Champions with a 2-0 thumping of Kano Pillars In the final match of the campaign inside the Stephen Keshi Stadium.

Promise Nwachukwu, General Manager of the club and who steered the team's ship during their incredible run last term, said he was pleased with the progress of the club heading into the new top flight season.

"First, I must say we're grateful to the government of Imo State under the leadership of His Excellency, Senator Hope Uzodinma for the huge moral and financial support to the club.

"He's always been there for us and we can't thank him enough. 

"Having said that, I must comment the coaches, led by Christian Obi, a former Nigeria international goalkeeper and his crew, the support staff, players and management for their dedication, commitment and hard work.

"We've put the past season behind. We're now up to the challenges of the Premier League and I'm pleased with our level of preparation for the coming season", Nwachukwu said.

Heartland will get their new season campaign underway with an opening home fixture against Lobi Stars at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday, September 10.

They are billed to leave their Awka camp on Tuesday next week for Owerri, their ancestral base for final preparation for the opening league game against Lobi Stars.