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By Abiodun Adewale.
3SC striker, Anthony Okachi, says the Oluyole Warriors will dig deep to get a win when they host Akwa United in their last game of the first stanza of the 2022/23 Nigeria Professional Football League season in Ibadan on Sunday (today), PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Ibadan side have endured a tough first half of the season, winning just two of their matches, drawing three and also losing three to stay in the 6th position in Group A with nine points – five points behind a top-three spot.
As they await Akwa United on Sunday, Okachi says the importance of getting all the points cannot be overemphasized.
“It is very important that we get a win on Sunday (today) because that will help us stay in view of what we aim to achieve for the season. Yes it has been a very difficult first round for us but we know it’s a temporary setback and we will be back stronger, we appreciate the fans who show genuine love and support and we will try to put a smile on their faces,” Okachi told PUNCH Sports Extra.
“We know Akwa United are a good side but we are equally better and we will fight for the maximum point. We are not pressured into the game; we believe we can win and we know the people of Ibadan deserve a good result from the game.”
3SC’s goal tally have also not been impressive, scoring nine and conceding 11, a worrisome stat for coach Gbenga Ogunbote which Okachi says has been largely due to injuries affecting the squad.
With Okachi not fully fit and Sikiru Alimi also out injured, Ogunbote’s options have been limited up front but the news of Alimi returning to training also thrilled the striker who is also aiming to get back into the groove as soon as possible.
“Alimi (snr) has been a big booster for us so as others that have been injured like myself, we are trying to get back to full fitness and help the team. I can only say to the fans not to panic because the team will come good. We’ve had injury blows for some important players and it has affected the balance of the team but we are working every day to fix it as a family. We believe in the team, ourselves and we most believe in the head coach,” Okachi added.