Enugu Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has urged his players to remain fully focused as they continue their push for the Nigeria Premier Football League title following a crucial 2-0 away win over Bayelsa United, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Flying Antelopes strengthened their position at the top of the table with the victory at the Samson Siasia Stadium on Sunday, as Chidiebere Nwobodo opened the scoring after the half-hour mark before Godwin Obaje sealed the result late on with his 12th goal of the season.
Reflecting on the performance, Ilechukwu acknowledged the importance of the result but stressed that his side must maintain their concentration in the decisive stage of the campaign.
“It was a good game for us. I’m happy but we must not lose concentration,” Ilechukwu told ACL Sports.
Rangers are targeting a second league title in three seasons under Ilechukwu, and the latest result marked their first away win since January, which further boosts their credentials in the title race.
Despite their lead, the visitors were largely on the defensive in the second half, relying on their backline and goalkeeper Lucky Abdullahi to withstand pressure before Obaje’s late strike secured all three points.
Ilechukwu admitted he was not fully satisfied with his side’s second-half display but praised the defensive unit for their resilience during a difficult period in the match.
“I’m not too happy with the second half because we didn’t play well but our defenders did well and our goalkeeper played their roles well,” he added.
“We will take this confidence into the next match and hopefully, we get the job done.”
With 62 points from 36 matches, Rangers currently lead the standings, boasting the best defensive record in the league with just 25 goals conceded and a goal difference of +18.
They are also among the joint highest-scoring teams with 43 goals.
Rivers United remain close behind, just one point adrift after a 3-0 victory over Abia Warriors, ensuring the title race remains finely poised heading into the final rounds.
At the other end of the table, Bayelsa United and Wikki Tourists are battling relegation with the lowest points tally of 40, while Remo Stars have conceded the most goals in the division with 45.
With two matchdays remaining and one outstanding fixture, Rangers will host Bendel Insurance in Enugu next weekend, while Rivers United travel to Jos to face Wikki Tourists in what could prove decisive in the outcome of the 2025/26 season.
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