The General Manager of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, Dimeji Lawal, has expressed deep gratitude to the club’s loyal supporters and fans for their unwavering presence during the NPFL Matchday two fixture against Plateau United. The clash, which ended in a 1-1 draw, was played at the Adamasingba Stadium, and saw the Oluyole Warriors come close to securing all three points.
In an interview with Shooting Stars Media following the game, Dimeji Lawal highlighted the incredible turnout of fans, describing it as both “massive” and “encouraging.” He noted that such a show of support significantly boosts the morale of the team, as the presence of fans in large numbers reflects their commitment and passion for the club.
"As a club, we are grateful to all our fans and supporters for their massive presence at the stadium on Sunday. That was indeed encouraging, I give it to them," Lawal stated, emphasizing the value of having a strong backing from the stands.
While the former Nigerian international expressed gratitude, he did not shy away from addressing the team's inability to secure victory in the home fixture. Acknowledging the expectations of the fans, Lawal tendered a heartfelt apology for the result, reassuring the supporters that the team is committed to improving its performance as the season progresses.
“Let me, on behalf of my Chairman, Honourable Babatunde Olaniyan Akoro, the management, and the entire team, apologise to all our supporters and fans. We know they expected victory, but unfortunately, we couldn’t give it to them,” Lawal said. “We are deeply sorry—that is football—but I want to assure them that they will see an improved team as the season progresses. We will surely make them happy this season.”
This acknowledgment from Lawal reflects a deep understanding of the relationship between the club and its fanbase. Shooting Stars, one of Nigeria's most storied football clubs, holds a special place in the hearts of Ibadan residents and Nigerian football enthusiasts at large. Their loyal fans have consistently shown up in strong numbers to support the team, regardless of the circumstances.
Lawal further highlighted that the technical team, led by head coach Gbenga Ogunbote, has already started analyzing the game and addressing areas of weakness observed during the Plateau United clash. The match saw Shooting Stars create multiple goal-scoring opportunities but ultimately fall short of claiming all three points, settling for a draw after Plateau United leveled the score late in the second half.
“The technical crew will work on the grey areas noted during Sunday’s encounter,” Lawal assured, indicating that the team is already taking steps to improve its overall performance. He was optimistic that the issues that hindered their victory would be rectified in the upcoming matches.
Shooting Stars Sports Club, known for its rich history in Nigerian football, has high expectations placed upon them in every season. The club has produced legendary football talents and has a proud record of both domestic and continental success. However, in recent seasons, the club has struggled to consistently achieve the high standards expected of them, and there is a growing desire among the supporters for a return to the top echelon of Nigerian football.
The 2023/2024 season represents a fresh opportunity for the club to reclaim its place among the elite in Nigerian football, and the early displays of fan support suggest that the supporters are fully behind the team’s efforts to succeed.
Lawal’s message of gratitude and apology reflects the sense of responsibility the club feels toward its fans, while also highlighting the collective resolve within the team to improve as the season moves forward. With Gbenga Ogunbote’s tactical expertise and Lawal’s leadership off the pitch, Shooting Stars are aiming to build momentum and deliver on the high hopes of their fans.
As the season progresses, Shooting Stars will look to their next fixtures as an opportunity to bounce back from the Plateau United draw and to secure the much-needed victories that will push them higher up the NPFL table. The assurance from Lawal that the team will improve is a promise that the fans will hold onto as they continue to rally behind the club in pursuit of success.
In conclusion, Dimeji Lawal’s statement was not only a reflection of the club’s appreciation for its supporters but also an earnest commitment to making strides toward delivering improved performances. The bond between Shooting Stars and their fans is evidently strong, and with the backing of their passionate supporters, the team has the platform it needs to achieve its goals for the season. The focus now will be on ensuring that the progress promised by Lawal is realized on the pitch, beginning with the next game.
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