Plateau United centre back, Elijah Ogene has said his side opponents at the weekend, Heartland are merely coming to the serene Tin City for sightseeing.
The former champions are hosts of the Naze Millionaires in Sunday’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) matchday 14 clash at the New Jos Stadium in Jos.
The Jos Elephants were whipped with three unanswered goals when both sides clashed in the first fixture in Owerri.
Prior to the Sunday matchup, Plateau United lost with a slim one unreplied goal at hosts, FC IfeanyiUbah in Ozubulu/Nnewi while the guests overpowered the four-time champions, Kano Pillars 2-1 in Okigwe.
Ogene said his side are on a redemption mission starting with the weekend clash against visitors, Heartland aimed at reclaiming their rightful position on the Group B abridged NPFL log.
“The outcome of the clash against visiting side, Heartland will be a certain victory in our favour.
“Heartland were not fantastic the last time both sides met at their abode in Owerri even though we lost the match with three goals to nil.
“Remember we got a red card in that clash to one of our key players which thoroughly destabilised our game plan.
“Well, that’s history but this time around I believe it’s going to be outright payback time for them.
“I think they are on mere routine assignment here in Jos to fulfill the league programme. They are on a sightseeing mission to admire the beauty and serenity of Jos as we are determined to turn them back empty-handed.
“We are going for the whole three points at stake as well as a wide goal margin not only to repay them for the three goals we suffered in their hands but to chance to upstage Abia Warriors who are on same points with us.
“We are worried with our poor position on the league log though we are not under pressure at the moment.”
“We are more than convinced to achieve a breakthrough starting with the clash against Heartland. We want to return to our rightful position on the log as well as stake a claim to its leadership position.
“The spirit among my teammates is quite high and the watchword among us is to go ahead to conquer,” said the former Abia Warriors strongman.
Ogene insisted that his side are still on the right path to achieve the season’s target of finishing among the top three.
“Of course, top three finishing at the end of the season is still achievable. By the time we claim three points against Heartland on Sunday and go ahead to win our other remaining matches we will be certain to meet our set target,” said the former Nembe City star.
Ogene is hopeful to open his goal account for the Tin City side with the matchup against the Owerri landlords.
“No goal yet for the season but that will change after the clash against Heartland on Sunday. I hope to score my first goal in the match and take it up from there.
Plateau United are 10th on the 12-team Group B abridged NPFL log on 15 points 10 behind group’s leaders, El Kanemi Warriors.
By Johnny Edward.
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