As Heartland FC prepares to return to the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri for their home games, Shooting Stars coach Gbenga Ogunbote remains resolute in his team’s objective, emphasizing that their focus remains unchanged despite the change in venue.
Heartland FC is set to clash with Shooting Stars on Friday, April 19, 2024, in the opening fixture of the 31st day of the Nigeria Professional Football League.
Just a day before this crucial encounter, Heartland FC received a boost with the news of being able to resume playing at their home ground in Owerri after a temporary suspension.
The return to their familiar stadium is expected to provide added motivation for the home team.
However, Gbenga Ogunbote, coach of Shooting Stars, has called on his players to maintain their concentration and not be swayed by the change in location.
Addressing his team, Ogunbote emphasized the importance of staying focused and achieving the desired result despite the late notification of the change in venue.
“We learned about the developments very late, but regardless, I would like to urge you all to stay focused and get the desired result we need,” Ogunbote said in a statement quoted by the club’s media.
Currently occupying the fifth position with 49 points, Shooting Stars is trailing behind league leaders Enugu Rangers by five points.
On the other hand, Heartland FC finds themselves in the 19th position with 26 points, battling to avoid relegation from the NPFL after their promotion just a year ago.
With both teams having distinct objectives for the remainder of the season, Friday’s encounter promises to be a thrilling showdown as Shooting Stars aim to secure a vital victory in their pursuit of league success while Heartland FC seeks to climb out of the relegation zone.
