Surprisingly to most Shooting Stars fans and supporters, the team, in the last 18 hours played grade A and B friendlies against Sunshine Stars and Smart FC.
The team again, on Sunday morning travelled to Lagos for another friendly against Sunshine Stars. At the end, they survived the Akure Gunners onslaught by a lone goal courtesy of Sochima Elum.
In this lenghty chats with *OyoSportsNews’ Seyi Adedire*, the club’s Team Manager, Dimeji Lawal (MON) ‘Kabongo’, explained in details what the team has achieved with series of friendlies and what to expect at the second edition of Gov Seyi Makinde Pre-season Tournament billed to start December 3rd-7th and their league opener against Gombe United.
“Yes, we played two friendlies against Smart FC and Sunshine Stars. we won both but we were able to know areas to work on before the league start by December 17th. In every match, there is always game plan, tactics and strategies.”
“We can’t compare NNL to NPFL, it is very different. That is why we’ve been able to put our players to mental, physical and tactical match test. The coaches are capable and know what it takes to be at the NPFL. I’m confident we won’t disappoint our fans and supporters.”
On the recent lack of goals in recent friendlies and IFA fixtures, he replied:
“In every match, we have three things at the end, either you win, lose or draw. If you win with half goal, you have three points. The technical crew are up to the task. I’m sure.”
Reacting to the forthcoming Governor Seyi Makinde Pre-season Tournament, ‘Kabongo’ said it will be a good evaluation time for the coaches to know how far the players have adapted to their philosophy.
“My brother, when you play friendly or real match against grassroots or non league club you must be very careful. it happened during my playing days. Every players want to make name, impress and play for shooting stars. They are not afraid to lose but determine to create upset.
“The pre-season will be okay and good for us, we will do our best to improve the team and prepare them ahead of the Nigeria Professional Football League season.”
On what the fans should expect, Kabongo replied quickly: “With God our side, we won’t disappoint them.”