Nothing gladdens the heart of a fan like victory. And when it comes in the dramatic fashion we witnessed on Sunday evening, it hits different. Twice Bendel Insurance struck, twice we clawed back, and in the end we finished the job. Aba shook to its foundations.
Coach Stanley Eguma couldn’t hide his delight afterwards.
“Thank God for the victory today and to my players for the win. The rivalry between Enyimba and Insurance has always been there and we expected a tough battle. Even when we conceded, I must commend my players for showing character because at Enyimba, “we never say die.”
He also tipped his hat to the visitors:
“They were fast, young and businesslike, and they gave us a scare. But I’m happy my players rose to the challenge and grabbed the three points.”
That was clear for all of us in the stands. Insurance didn’t come to Aba to make up the numbers. They asked questions, real questions.
On John Bassey, who is yet to open his account this season, Eguma was brutally honest but also protective:
“For Bassey, I think he tried his best, his qualities are not in doubt, he plays so robustly and creates chances. Unfortunately, he also fails to utilize them. He had a role to play but we had to substitute him because we wanted something different at that point.”
Tough words, but maybe that’s what the striker needs right now, a nudge to turn his work rate into end product. It also shows the coach still backs his striker. Maybe Bassey just needs that one moment to break free.
There was some VIP Activity off the pitch as well! Edo’s Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa was there cheering the visitors – no wonder they couldnt let us breath. Abia’s own Governor Dr. Alex Otti made his first appearance since taking office and even spiced it up with a ₦10m-per-goal promise. Three goals later, Enyimba’s boys were ₦30m richer. Not a bad day’s work at all.
This result keeps us unbeaten and on top with 11 points. Next stop is Ikorodu City in Lagos. A different kind of challenge, new environment, but the same demand: spirit, fight, and that Aba never-say-die mentality.
This might just be the year; I hope i didnt talk too soon.
We return tomorrow,
‘EnyimbaEnyi
