3SC’S failure against Akwa Starlets consumes GM, coach, team manager

• Okowa hails Warri Wolves on promotion

TGeneral Manager of Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, Rasheed Balogun and the club’s Head Coach, Edith Agoye, as well as Team Manager, Dimeji Lawal have become the first casualties of the club’s unexpected 0-3 defeat by Akwa Starlets in the Nigerian National League play-off in Asaba on Monday. The Oluyole Warriors were tipped to be among the four teams that would gain promotion to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) through the play-offs owing to their pedigree in the nation’s football. But they were beaten 3-0 by Akwa Starlets in the promotion play-off at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.

Balogun said his decision to quit the club was “a difficult decision for me to take going by the strong attachment I have with the players, techni

cal crew, backroom staff, supporters, and fans.

“I thank the Oyo State Government for giving me the opportunity to serve, I wish the club good luck in its future endeavors.”

Also leaving the club are the head coach, Agoye, a former player of the team, and former international, Dimeji Lawal, who was the team manager.

Meanwhile, Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa yesterday congratulated Warri Wolves FC on its promotion to the NPFL.

Warri Wolves defeated Dynamites of Benin 5-4 on penalties to gain promotion to the NPFL.

In a statement signed by Okowa’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the governor described the promotion as a well-deserved effort and a proof of the state government’s commitment to sports development.

The governor, who also commended the Chairman and members of the state’s Sports Commission, said the promotion no doubt was an encouragement to do more for sports development in the state.

He charged the two Deltabased football clubs in the NPFL, Warri Wolves and Delta Force, to strive harder and redouble their efforts towards winning the NPFL and securing continental tickets in the coming season.