By Femi Atolagbe
Sunshine Stars head coach, Bala Abubakar, has declared his team’s readiness for the second stanza of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The Owena Whales begin the second round of the season by playing hosts to new boys, Ikorodu City at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne this Saturday.
Abubakar emphasised his determination to approach every match with focus and intensity, noting that the fixture against Ikorodu City will not be an exception.
Acknowledging the challenges ahead, particularly against the Lagos-based side, Abubakar restated his commitment to building a formidable and compact squad capable of reclaiming their rightful place among the league’s top teams.
“We are working round the clock to ensure we start the second string of matches on a promising note, beginning with victory in our first match,” Bala said.
“The fixture against Ikorodu City will be tough; they are a strong side and currently hold a comfortable position on the NPFL table.
“Sunshine Stars lost the first leg to them 2-1 so they will be here fighting for points.
“We have prepared adequately and by the end of tomorrow’s game, we would have begun the second stanza on a positive note.
“The team are stronger now hence we are stepping into this round more formidable than ever.”
The former Kwara United coach further revealed that his technical crew has been working tirelessly to transform Sunshine Stars into a highly competitive side, ensuring intense competition for every position.
He highlighted the inclusion of quality players to bolster the squad, complementing the efforts of the older players.
Abubakar also addressed the team’s earlier struggles with converting chances, attributing it to bad composure and poor decision-making in the goal area.
“We have improved significantly in the area of goal-scoring. From the friendly matches played, we were able to capitalise on chances created,” he said.
“After tomorrow’s game, our supporters and well-wishers will start seeing a better, well-composed Sunshine Stars.
“With their support and prayers, we are confident the boys will make them proud by the end of the season.”
While acknowledging that Sunshine Stars are not in the danger zone, Abubakar expressed his desire to see them climb out of their current position and achieve a spot among the league’s top-10 teams, which he described as their first target.