21st May, 2010
Kano Pillars’ central midfielder, Solomon Okpako, is very sure of his side’s quest to win their second title in three years after defeating Enugu Rangers last weekend by a lone goal.
Though the win over the Flying Antelopes was not as convincing as Okpako had hoped for, he believes the former Nigerian champions are getting into the groove ahead of the title run-in.
Okpako, captain of the Super Eagles Team B, declared that he and his team-mates are ready for the challenge that the likes of five-time Premier League champions, Enyimba, would pose as the season hots up.
The 20-year-old midfielder added that the match against Enugu Rangers was difficult, as the visiting side defended well for greater part of the game.
“Rangers were a very difficult team to play because they defended very well and did not allow us play our game. But I am happy that we won and that leaves us on top of the Premier League again for another week.
“We are only concerned with our own results and games. We don’t want to think of other teams because we have the belief that we will win the title at the end of the season,†Okpako told Naijaligue.blogspot.com.
The former Bendel United man is, however, unfazed by the fact that the Peoples’ Elephant could topple his club at the top of the Premier League log since they have two outstanding games to play.
Okpako, who started his career with the youth team of Bendel United in 2005, acknowledged that Enyimba are a threat to his side’s title ambitions, but insists that Kano Pillars would soldier on till the end of the season.
“There’s no doubt that Enyimba are also playing for the league title now. I respect them as a team because of what they have achieved, but I do not fear them at all. We know that they are very ambitious but we are very hungry for this trophy and no one will stop us now,†Okpako said.
The Abraka-born midfielder is now looking forward to the visit of newcomers, Dolphins Football Club.
“It is important that we beat Dolphins in our next game if we want to continue to remain on top of the league table,†Okpako hinted. “We have the team that can do that and we won’t underrate anybody in our remaining matches.â€