Kingsley Abavo, Benin
Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission, Olympian Yusuf Alli has thrown his weight behind the Benin Arsenals, appealing to all stakeholders including fans to always support the team during their games.
Alli made the appeal as Bendel Insurance FC conclude preparations for their Day 11 game in the Nigeria Premier Football League against table toppers; Lobi Stars of Makurdi, on Saturday, 2 December, 2023.
He visited the team during their evening training session at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium, Benin, and insisted that the team needs all the support from their people at this time more than ever.
Alli said this becomes very necessary as the league gets tougher with some unexpected results being posted, against big teams before their fans.
" Let me apologize to you guys over the unpleasant experience with some persons (fans) after your game with Kwara Utd. which ended in 2-2 draw.
"We have a report on the match and we have been able to identify the fans involved in the attempt to assault the head coach and some other officials and two players because of the 2-2 draw result. We want the fans and others to know that we as Government will not accept such behaviour.
"We have identified those involved and we have informed the Governor about the incident.
"We have also mandated our security personnel to be at alert to deal with such situations.
"I want to use this opportunity to advise fans to learn how to control their temper because if such happens again those involved will not be seen as supporters and fans but as hooligans who deliberately plan to bring the game into disrepute.
"As far as we are concerned, our darling team has not disappointed us. They have been good.
"We should understand that the game of football has improved in Nigeria. The must win at home is no longer there. Some big teams have lost at home this season.
"Thank God we have not lost at home and we have also been able to get some away draws, so why are we so angry when a well prepared team also come here and get a draw? That is football, you win some, draw and lose some.
"We want you to know that Government is behind you, we are solidly behind you and we expect you to continue to work hard to get it right. We want our team to improve. We will continue to support you to get better.
"We appreciate all your efforts so far! The Governor will soon receive you people on the Federation cup you won. Government does not joke with your welfare," Alli assured.
It is appalling to make the home team feel like it is away when playing at home.l, the Edo Sports Commission Chairman said.
" It is appalling that some persons among the fans are making our team feel like they not playing at home. We will not condone that. Our team should feel comfortable and secured while playing at home.
"It is our responsibility to protect and support them, and we will continue to do that."
Bendel Insurance FC will be playing host to Lobi Stars of Makurdi in the Match Day 11 game at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium on Saturday.
The Kick off time is 4:00 p.m for today's cracker at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, in Benin.
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