Rivers Angels are fully prepared for a crucial President FA Cup semi-final clash against Ibom Angels at the Enyimba stadium on Saturday.
Following an exclusive interview with the team’s media, insights from Coach Tosan Blankson and captain Catherine Kenneth reveal the team’s mindset heading into this significant encounter, Footballrover reports.
Despite a Super Six setback, the Jewels of Rivers are determined to make their mark in the Federation Cup.
Rivers Angels’ resolve after Super Six disappointment
Coach Tosan Blankson addressed their Super Six performance, stating,
“Though we didn’t start well, but we ended up well, and we are going to pick up from where we stopped in Ikenne.”
When questioned about facing Ibom Angels again, he emphasised the unique nature of cup competitions.
“Two matches are not the same; all we have done now is to prepare for Ibom Angels, irrespective of how we played them in the two games (in NWFL). The FA Cup is a different game entirely; we are ready for Ibom Angels, and we have a different way and mentality to go about it.”
Captain Catherine Kenneth also shared her perspective on overcoming the Super Six disappointment where the Rivers Angels finished fourth.
“You don’t overcome such; you live with it. It was not what we expected, but we apologise to our fans and sponsors; they should not be disappointed in us, and they should not lose faith. We went there with the intention of winning, but things turned out the way they did, and we are not pleased ourselves.”
The pressure to perform in the President FA Cup
As defending champions, the pressure is undoubtedly on, and the team’s captain admitted to that.
“Yes! We are under pressure because we need to retain the trophy and to compensate our fans and sponsors for what we lost in Ikenne. But I think it’s a good pressure; let me not be negative,” Kenneth admitted.
Regarding their familiarity with Ibom Angels, she added,
“Basically, no team is a pushover, and Ibom Angels are not one, from what we’ve played in the regular season. So, we are going all out, not underrating them and not seeing them less.”
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