Godwin Obaje has expressed excitement at being at the centre of ensuring that Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Rangers International, returned to winning ways after four previous matches without a win.
Obaje in his first start for the season scored two quickfire goals in the second half to help the champions to a 2-0 victory over Nasarawa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Sunday.
The forward scored on 55 and 60 minutes, and now believes the Flying Antelopes are “gradually getting into the needed shape.”
“We are happy we got the win and I am really glad to have scored in my first start for the season. It goes a long way to show that we are gradually getting into the needed shape to challenge for a good season. Nasarawa United gave us a good fight but we showed more resolve to win,” said Obaje after the match.
Rangers assistant coach, Ekenedilichukwu Ekeh, admitted that Nasarawa United showed that they are “a quality side” and attributed that to the reason for failing to breach their opponents backline in the first 45 minutes.
He added that Rangers will continue to work on their finishing ahead of their upcoming matches in the league.
“This was a great game with a good result against a quality side. They proved difficult in the first half but after some talks at the break, we got our acts together and converted two of the numerous chances that we created. We are happy with the result and would work harder to convert our chances in subsequent matches,” Ekeh said.
Obaje’s double ensured that Rangers moved from ninth place to fifth and six points behind league leaders, Remo Stars.
Rangers will face Plateau United in their next matcweek fixture at the New Jos Stadium.