Heartland FC Technical Manager Emmanuel Amuneke has praised his players’ game management following a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Sunshine Stars in a Nigeria National League clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.
Abdulateef Ibrahim struck in the 90th minute to seal the win, lifting Heartland to third in Conference A with 20 points and extending their run to three consecutive victories.
Amuneke said the contest lived up to expectations, with both sides showing quality in a tightly contested encounter.
“We cannot say because we missed three chances and switch off. We have to push on,” Amuneke said after the match.
“We would have killed the game in the first half but we did not take our chances. A team can miss opportunities and become demoralised, but I spoke to the players at half-time and encouraged them.”
The former Nigeria international credited his side’s discipline and control for seeing out the result.
“I think the game management from the players was perfect. We did not allow them to play and when we had the ball, we played. Even if it is half a goal, as long as it gives us three points, it is fine,” he added.
Despite the victory, Amuneke acknowledged the challenge posed by Sunshine Stars, describing them as a well-organised side with a clear approach.
“We played against a very good team. They are organised and know what they want to do, especially without the ball,” he said.
0 Comments