Head Coach of Ingas FC Enugu, Kingsley Obiekwu, a former Nigeria international, has disclosed that the club is physically and mentally prepared for the tough Nationwide League One challenge that would ultimately earn them promotion to the Nigeria,National League, NNL, Exclusivenews.com.ng reports.

Obiekwo spoke on Sunday after his team's 2-0 defeat of Kun Khalifat FC, Owerri, in their third group match.

Obiekwo revealed that Ingas are taking part in the NLO playoffs for the fifth consecutive season, adding that in the last four seasons, they finished second in their group. 

"By the grace of God, this time around, we want to change the situation by finishing first in our group", Obiekwo, a former Udoji United defender began.

"We're physically, mentally and spiritually prepared. We've the implements, as regards the players, coaches and management. And we know what's at stake. This is the fifth season Ingas FC is playing in the NLO. 

"And for the past four seasons, we've been finishing on second position in our group. So this time around we want to change that by the grace of God. And hopefully, the next three games will give Ingas that leverage to see us finish in the first position". 

The former Go Ahead Eagles of Holland defender and member of the U23 Dream Team that won the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games men's football event gold medal after a 3-2 defeat of Argentina I the final, further admitted that NNL is a tough league but emphasised that they are on a journey to taste life in the NNL.

"Well, NNL is always very tough. You can agree with me that there are over three hundred and fifty clubs playing in the NLO and only four teams will get the promotion. 

"So, the first stage is for you to top your group, then you go on to play another team from another group and yet another team from group before you make it to the NNL. So, it's a journey, and hopefully we're prepared".

He reflected on the 2-0 win over Kun Khalifat, saying he's grateful to God because the victory has reinforced their push for the group's top spot.

"First of all, I want to give God the glory. I want to thank Him for helping us to win this match. We're chasing the top spot on the league table. 

"Before this match, we're 5th on the table because we lost our first match. But we thank God because the boys are beginning to be realistic and putting every hand on deck to see that we closed the gap. 

"It's a sweet victory, no doubt, but we're still work in progress. As you can see, this league could be decided by goals. The teams in the first and second positions have scored about 10-11 goals and they are both on nine points while we're on six points. 

"But nevertheless, let's see how the next (last) three games will go".