Heartland coach praises players in defeat

Despite losing by a lone goal to their arch rivals Rangers International of Enugu, Heartland chief coach, Erasmus Onuh Ollotah has given his players a pat on the back saying they performed creditably.

After both sides had struggled for form so far in the Glo Professional Football League which entered week eight last weekend and were in dire need for points, former Sharks’ marksman, Onoriode Odaa’s second half strike proved adequate to hand the Flying Antelopes the maximum points in the hotly contested Oriental derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

For the former Heartland coach, Kelechi Emeteole, the victory eased the pressure on him, while coach Erasmus Onuh might be hitting the exit door if his team doesn’t improve their form.

The Naze Millionaires almost took the lead in the 38th minute, but a sharp reflex save by Emmanuel Daniel stopped Bright Ejike’s lob from going in.

However, speaking after the clash Heartland coach, Ollotah said, “ I’m not disappointed at all in the 0-1 loss to Enugu Rangers, the players adhered strictly to pre-match instructions.”

“They played very well, I think they gave a good account of themselves. The encounter could have gone either way but, it went in favour of Enugu Rangers.

“We’ll go back home to continue the fight to stay afloat. There is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of in this game,” said the former Sunshine Stars coach.