NPFL: After a rousing welcome for Kanu Gombe United humble Enyimba
Former Nigerian international, Nwankwo Kanu, popularly known as Papilo, threw the Gombe United fans into wild jubilation at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe State.
Kanu, who is the current chairman of Enyimba Football Club, was present to motivate his boys during their encounter with Gombe United where they suffered a 2-0 defeat from their host.
Punch reports that the last time Kanu was sighted in the state was in 2010 during the opening of the township stadium.
It took policemen and other security operatives to escort the Enyimba FC chairman to a waiting car while waving and smiling at the fans.
Speaking, Ishaya Adamu noted that they were excited following the ex-Arsernal star’s achievement. He added that television is not the same when you can behold the individual.
Adamu said, “It’s not the same thing when you see someone that you have been hearing about for some time. The last time he was here was in 2010, that is why fans are excited. There is no reason for alarm, we just want to touch him and take shots.”
When approached by journalists to react to the defeat suffered by the team, neither Kanu nor the team’s officials agreed to comment on their poor outing.
Meanwhile, Chijioke Alekwe, with jersey number 9, scored the first goal in the 44th minute, while Ahmed Jimoh, scored the second goal eight minutes into the extra time through a free kick.
Reacting during a post-match conference, t
he technical Adviser of Gombe United, Mohammed Babaganaru, expressed optimism that his team would win laurels, adding “If you look at the team, it’s entirely a new team, most of the players of last season have left. We also started very late. I believe the team will improve in the course of the league.”
On performance and turnout, Babaganaru said, “To be sincere, I really appreciate the support of the fans. They are very cooperative they gave us maximum cooperation from the end.”
On what fans should expect, “I know expectation is high I’m just coming into the team and the team is just beginning to adopt my philosophy but I tell you the team will improve because we didn’t have much time to prepare, the time is limited for me. It’s now I’m seeing the right people position,” he added.
In other matches, Niger Tornadoes defeated Rivers United 1-0, Plateau United were 1-0 better than Heartland, while Lobi Stars edged a goals-filled encounter with Sunshine Stars 3-2.
Remo Stars beat Enugu Rangers 2-1, Bendel Insurance defeated 3SC 2-0, Akwa United was held to a goalless draw by new boys, Sporting Lagos, Kano Pillars beat neighbours, Katsina United 1-0, while Kwara United defeated Abia Warriors 1-0.
