Good morning, Elephants!
It’s a Thursday—usually a quiet day—but not today. Yesterday was transfer deadline day in the NPFL, and while we weren’t the busiest team in the market, we got our fair share of the action. We’ve already seen one of our new boys in action—that hard-fought win against Lobi in Bauchi.
I don’t know about you, but I sense some positive shifts in the NPFL. Clubs are signing four to six players instead of the usual 10+ squad overhauls we’re used to seeing. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll soon reach the day when clubs start announcing transfer fees and contract lengths. A dream? Perhaps. But as they say, impossible is nothing.
Now, if you’ve been following this blog religiously, you’ll remember I set two major targets for this season:
- A podium finish in the league.
- Winning the President’s Federation Cup—a trophy we haven’t dominated like we have the NPFL.
That second mission kicks off tomorrow by 3pm in Aba, and there’s a sprinkle of revenge in the script. It’s our first State FA Cup match, and we face Abia Warriors Jnr. Win that, then beat Jaguar FC in the semifinal on Tuesday, and we book our place in the Round of 64 of the President’s Federation Cup.
Now, let’s talk payback. Abia Warriors’ senior team hammered our feeder team 4-0 in the last meeting. We might not need to go full strength for this game because of the more important and more difficult game in Uyo on Sunday, but let’s not send out a pub team either. This is our chance to return the favor—and do it with style. A win is good, but a statement victory? Even better.
Beyond the cup action, we’re eager to see our new acquisitions gradually integrated into the squad. We just hope—and pray—they are quality additions and not just signings for signing’s sake.
And speaking of reinforcements, we also look forward to welcoming back some of our injured elephants. Clinton Jephtha and Eze Ekwutoziem are working their way to full fitness, while Nnachi Chidiebere has already seen games. When they return to full firepower, it’ll feel like new signings all over again.
Finally, a quick recovery wish to Kalu Nweke—because derby days always come with their casualties.
Back tomorrow for more.
Enyimba Enyi!
